How Long Is Seasonal Work? Expert Advice for H-2A and H-2B Visa Programs

If your US business depends on temporary labor, one of the most common questions you may have regarding H-2A and H-2B visa programs is, “How long is seasonal work?” For visa programs, seasonal work has a very specific legal definition, and knowing these rules can help you stay legally compliant.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything US employers need to know about seasonal employment and how it impacts H-2A and H-2B visa programs.

How Long Is Seasonal Work Under US Visa Rules?

Seasonal work is defined as employment tied to a recurring event or pattern within a business cycle. The key requirement is that the need must repeat yearly around the same time, and must not be considered ongoing or permanent. 

Examples of seasonal work include:

• Jobs that depend on a weather cycle

• Roles connected to tourism peaks

• Work that only exists during certain months

• Periods where demand rises then falls predictably, like the holidays

Note that seasonal work isn’t the same as intermittent work or a one-time need. These categories are related to the H-2B program, but only seasonal need is tied to a repeating time of year.

How Long Is Seasonal Work for the H-2A Program?

The H-2A visa program supports agricultural employers needing temporary help with planting, harvesting, and other time-limited farming tasks.

Most H-2A jobs last anywhere between six weeks and ten months, depending on the crop and region. For example, vegetable harvests may last a few months, while greenhouse operations may focus on getting help for a few weeks during peak planting cycles. The exact length of work is directly tied to the agricultural season and how long the job duties exist.

While there is no minimum period required, H-2A workers may stay up to a maximum of ten months per contract. Though extensions are possible, they are only permitted in narrow circumstances, such as unforeseen circumstances beyond the US employer’s control, or if the US employer can show the seasonal need continues for a short and specific period of two weeks or less. Once the season ends, workers must return to their home country before the next contract period. 

How Long Is Seasonal Work for the H-2B Program?

The H-2B visa program covers temporary non-agricultural jobs. Employers in industries such as hospitality, landscaping, construction, seafood processing, and tourism commonly rely on this category.

H-2B jobs last up to ten months, depending on the business cycle. For example, hotels may need extra workers during the busy summer season, while construction projects may last several more months.

These H-2B workers can work up to ten months on seasonal jobs. US employers must be able to document why the need only exists for a temporary period each year. 

How Seasonal Work Length Is Determined

When the government reviews petitions, they look closely at the proposed dates of need. Employers must show:

• The start and end of the season

• Why the job doesn’t exist year-round

• Historical records supporting seasonal or peak load patterns

• How weather, tourism, or demand cycles affect staffing

Accurate documentation helps prevent delays or denials and keeps your business in good standing throughout the contract. You should always ensure all dates are accurate and that job duties match seasonal requirements in your paperwork. 

US employers must also:

• Pay workers for the full contract period

• End employment once the season is complete

• Follow all federal, state, and wage regulations

Misrepresenting this information can result in denials, investigations, or future compliance issues.

How to Choose the Right Visa Program Based on Seasonal Work Length

The H-2A visa is best for agricultural businesses with predictable crop or livestock seasons, while the H-2B visa is best for non-agricultural industries with predictable seasonal or peak load patterns. 

Because of the complexity of these programs, US employers often work with an immigration attorney to navigate seasonal work requirements. An immigration attorney can help employers:

• Define accurate and legally defensible dates of need

• Prepare strong documentation for temporary employment

• Navigate the strict timelines of H-2A and H-2B filings

• Avoid mistakes that delay or weaken a petition

Having the right legal support reduces risk and helps businesses stay compliant from start to finish.

Final Thoughts: So, How Long Is Seasonal Work? It Depends

When asking, “How long is seasonal work?” the answer depends on the visa type, industry, and nature of the business cycle. Seasonal work must be temporary, predictable, and tied to a recurring need. On average, this work can last as little as a few weeks or as long as ten months.

If your US business is ready to hire seasonal workers or you need guidance with the H-2A or H-2B visa process, our office is here to help. Contact us today for expert legal support for your staffing needs.