United States
ChileCompare visas
H-2A vs H-2B
Both are temporary visas for jobs that do not require a degree, and both require the employer to first obtain a Department of Labor certification. The difference is the sector: the H-2A covers agricultural work only and has no cap; the H-2B covers other sectors, such as hospitality or construction, and has an annual cap that runs out.
These two categories differ on 4 of 10 criteria. The full table is below, but if you only have a minute, these are the differences that decide a case.
Where they part ways
What it is for
H-2A Temporary or seasonal agricultural work
H-2B Temporary non-agricultural work
Needs a sponsor
H-2A Yes, an agricultural employer
H-2B Yes, an employer
Annual cap
H-2A No cap
H-2B 66,000, in two halves of 33,000
Lottery
H-2A None
H-2B No, but the cap runs out
Full comparison
| Criterion | H-2A H-2A visa | H-2B H-2B visa |
|---|---|---|
| What it is for The activity the category authorises. | Temporary or seasonal agricultural work | Temporary non-agricultural work |
| Needs a sponsor Whether someone else has to petition for you. | Yes, an agricultural employer | Yes, an employer |
| Annual cap How many are issued per fiscal year. | No cap | 66,000, in two halves of 33,000 |
| Lottery Whether access depends on a random selection. | None | No, but the cap runs out |
| Prior USCIS petition Whether a form must be approved before the consulate. | Yes, DOL certification then I-129 | Yes, DOL certification then I-129 |
| Duration Initial term and cumulative ceiling. | Up to 1 year, 3 cumulative | Up to 1 year, 3 cumulative |
| Dual intent Whether you can pursue residence without risking the status. | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Spouse may work Whether your partner is authorised to work. | H-4, no work permit | H-4, no work permit |
| Path to residence Whether it leads to a green card or is one already. | It does not lead there | It does not lead there |
| Chile's position What being Chilean changes. | A DHS country list renewed annually | A DHS country list renewed annually |
Figures verified on 2026-09-11
This table is general guidance, not legal advice or an eligibility assessment.
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