smartblogger094Working on farms during harvest seasons is a time-honored way for foreign workers to earn good wages in the United States.
Each year, tens of thousands of jobs become available in orchards, vineyards and fields throughout rural America. For motivated individuals looking for new experiences abroad, farm work offers a unique blend of physical labor and cultural immersion.
The seasonal nature of agriculture means farmers require extra hands only when crops are ripening.
Jobs are temporary but come with the possibility of housing and meals and pay well above minimum wage. Some employers are even willing to sponsor foreign workers for temporary agricultural visas.
For anyone interested in visiting America while earning a substantial income, fruit picking represents a rare open door.
Qualifying Crops and Regions
Different harvest periods span the warmer months according to crop varieties and climates. Apples mature in autumn across northern states like Washington, New York and Michigan.
California’s Central Valley grows an immense variety including cherries, peaches, plums, grapes, melons and more with harvest from spring through fall. Florida oranges are hand-picked in winter.
Most farm employers prefer experience but some provide training. Applications are accepted year-round for the following season with the busiest times between February and May.
Strong English skills help but are not required as supervision is visual. A valid passport and ability to pass a background check are essential. Minimum age limits range 16-18 depending on crop and machinery use.
The H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Program
The largest and most accessible visa pathway is the H-2A program under the authority of the US Department of Labor. It allows foreign nationals to conduct temporary or seasonal agricultural work while nonimmigrant status is maintained.
Employers petition for a limited number of H-2A visas and agree to reimburse travel costs, provide housing at no charge and guarantee a set number of work hours.
Workers pay no fees and receive the same protections as domestic employees, such as minimum wage, workers compensation and safety standards.
The visa is valid for the contract period up to 10 months and may be extended under a new job offer. Spouses and children can accompany H-2A workers with appropriate documentation.
Job seekers can search for sponsoring employers through the US Department of Labor’s foreign labor certification database.
Applying through an H-2A Employer
Once a suitable position is found, the employer will provide instructions and any forms needed to apply. The first step is to contact the employer directly via email or phone to express strong interest.
Next, workers will need to submit documents including a resume, proof of qualifications like past farm experience, copies of transcripts or certificates and passport identity pages.
Employers screen applicants and make conditional job offers pending visa approval. If selected, the employer will initiate the labor certification process including recruitment of US workers.
If no qualified Americans are found, the petition moves forward. Approval takes 1-2 months on average. Workers should have all arrangements prepared to travel once the visa is issued.
Pay, Housing and Meals
H-2A positions pay a predetermined hourly, piece rate or monthly wage. For 2022, hourly rates average $14.77 according to the Farm Labor Survey but can be higher.
Workers are entitled to at least three quarters of workdays guaranteed in the contract. Suitable free housing with basic utilities and facilities meeting occupancy health and safety standards must also be provided.
Many farms offer kitchens for meal preparation, though cooked meals are sometimes supplied. Deductions from pay are prohibited except as permitted by law or with worker permission for things like rent.
Cash advances are given for food until the first paycheck. Overall earnings have the potential to exceed $10,000 for a single harvest season or contract.
Continuing the Journey
With dedication and effort, a successful first H-2A contract can open doors to return seasons. Employers may request the same workers they know produce quality results.
Or workers can gain skills to qualify for specialized, higher-paying roles like crop monitoring. Multi-year experience becomes an advantage when competing for positions.
Some opt to combine shorter stints at multiple farms to maximize income over the visa period. Maintaining good performance and adhering to all legal requirements are important to remain in the program long-term.
Agricultural work also gives unique insight into American rural life and farming culture, rewarding in its own way beyond financial rewards. With the right preparation and match with employers’ needs, the H-2A path offers life-changing international experiences.
FAQs
1. What paperwork is required for H-2A visa approval?
The main documents needed are a valid passport, work/education resume, background check consent, proof of qualifications like vaccine records or licenses and bank statements showing sufficient funds for travel costs. Employers assist with any additional forms.
2. Can family members get work permits with the H-2A visa?
Spouses and minor children can apply for companion H-4 dependent visas allowing them to join the worker but not seek separate employment in the US themselves. They must prove dependent financial status.
3. What months are busiest for H-2A job opportunities?
The ramp up occurs February through May as farms submit labor certification applications and recruitment documents for the upcoming season. Hiring peaks during this time, gradually slowing down summer through fall after most positions are filled.
4. How far in advance should I start the application process?
Two to four months before the intended start date is recommended. The visa approval process takes 6-8 weeks once an employer submits all paperwork. Time must also be allowed for pre-travel medical exams, visa interviews and travel arrangements.
5. Can workers change employers on an H-2A visa?
Yes, but only under limited circumstances. Workers must obtain a transfer release from the original employer verifying satisfactory job completion. The new employer must also submit an amended H-2A petition and wait for approval before employment can begin to maintain legal status.
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