H-2B Non-Agricultural Temp Seasonal Workers Visa Program

H-2B Visa Program: A Workforce Solution for Peak Seasons

Seasonal workforce challenges are a reality for many Summit County businesses - especially in hospitality, travel, and recreation. To help employers better understand one potential solution, we recently hosted an H-2B Visa Program 101 session with The Vail Valley led by immigration attorney Matthew Lee.

What Is the H-2B Program?

The H-2B temporary worker visa program is administered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC) within the U.S. Department of Labor.

The program allows businesses (in nearly every industry except agriculture) to sponsor foreign workers for up to nine months to meet temporary seasonal or peak-load needs. To qualify, employers must demonstrate:

- The need is temporary
- There are not enough qualified and available U.S. workers
- Hiring H-2B workers will not negatively impact wages or working conditions

Breaking It Down Step-by-Step

The H-2B process is highly regulated and deadline-driven. This introductory 101-level session walked attendees through the process step-by-step, including:

- Prevailing wage determinations
- Recruitment requirements
- Filing timelines
- Federal agency approvals
- Compliance considerations

Why It Matters for Our Business Community

In a seasonal economy like ours, workforce planning is critical. While the H-2B program is complex, it can serve as a strategic supplement to the local workforce during periods that enough US workers cannot be found and when navigated correctly. The Summit Chamber remains committed to bringing forward educational resources and conversations that help our members make informed decisions.

With more than 30 years of immigration law experience, Attorney Lee provided both technical insight and practical guidance. His understanding of hospitality-driven economies and community workforce dynamics made the conversation especially relevant for local employers.

Have questions about this H-2B Visa Program? Reach out to Lee & Novi