The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of Labor (DOL) announced on January 30, 2026, a Temporary Final Rule regarding the H-2B visa program for the Fiscal Year of 2026 where there would be:
- An Increase Amount: Up to 64,716 additional visas
- Eligibility Requirement: Employers must attest they are experiencing, or will imminently experience, irreparable harm without the requested H-2B workers
In addition, there will be three (3) total allocations, including two (2) for the second half of FY 2026.
- For Returning Workers: 46,226 visas reserved
- Late-Season Allocation: 18,490 visas
Employment Start Dates between May 1 and September 30, 2026 (no returning-worker requirement)
For more information regarding this new update, click here: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/02/03/2026-02131/exercise-of-time-limited-authority-to-increase-the-fiscal-year-2026-numerical-limitation-for-the