The labor shortage for certain workers in Pennsylvania and throughout the U.S. offers opportunities for workers from many countries. Officials designed the H-2 visa program to help foreign individuals looking for employment and companies needing workers.
For Mexican workers, the program has several specific features that have relevance throughout the entire process.
Information for applicants
An applicant for an H-2 visa, according to the U.S. Embassy, refers to Mexican workers looking for a U.S. job. The process begins with the worker finding a U.S. company that needs temporary workers. A variety of sources provide information on potential job openings:
- Word of mouth
- Job fairs
- Local and state governments
- A local visa agent
Once a worker receives a job offer, he or she should review the contract which should state the conditions of employment including wages, hours and benefits. Upon determining the validity of the job offer, the applicant should fill out a DS-160 form and submit a $205 payment for the visa fee. The final step involves an interview and the submission of relevant documents.
Information for U.S. employers
Because H-2 visas are petition-based, a U.S. employer must petition the U.S. Department of Labor to receive permission to bring in foreign workers. The application should provide information on why the company needs workers and also must show that bringing in foreign workers will not adversely impact U.S. workers. The company must also submit forms to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
The process for H-2 visas for both workers and employers has many steps. Professional legal assistance can help the process go more smoothly.