U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that it has reached the cap for the second allocation of H-2B visas for returning workers for fiscal year 2026. This allocation, which includes 27,736 visas, is now closed for petitions with employment start dates from April 1 through April 30, 2026.
Key Details:
- The cap was reached as of the latest USCIS announcement, and no new petitions for April start dates will be accepted under this allocation.
- Employers should anticipate standard cap-handling procedures for any petitions submitted once the limit is reached.
- Petitions that are submitted but not accepted may be rejected or returned in accordance with USCIS intake policies.
- Employers are advised to review start dates, worker eligibility as “returning workers,” and ensure compliance with labor certification timelines for any remaining FY 2026 allocations.
This development underscores the ongoing high demand for H-2B classifications, particularly in industries with seasonal labor needs. Employers and petitioners are encouraged to stay informed about future allocation announcements and ensure their documentation aligns with regulatory requirements.
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Source: @VISAINAMERICA