Know Your Rights as an H-2B Worker

Know Your Rights as an H-2B Worker

If you’re working in the U.S. under the H-2B visa program, it’s important to understand your rights. The H-2B program is designed to protect workers while providing opportunities in seasonal, non-agricultural jobs. This guide will help you know what to expect and what to do if something doesn’t seem right.

Your Rights Under the H-2B Program

Clear Job Information

• Your employer must give you written details about your wages, hours, working conditions, and benefits.
• This information should be provided before you travel to the U.S. or on your first day of work.

Fair Pay

• You must be paid at least every two weeks for all the hours you work, at the rate promised.
• Each paycheck must come with a detailed statement showing your hours, pay, and any deductions.

Work Hours Guaranteed

• Your employer must offer at least 75% of the total hours promised in your work contract over a set period (12 weeks for contracts longer than 120 days, 6 weeks for shorter contracts).

Reimbursement for Expenses

• If you’ve paid for transportation and meals to get to your job, your employer must reimburse you for these costs after you’ve worked 50% of your contract.

Safe Transportation

• If your employer provides transportation, it must follow safety standards.
• If your job ends early or you complete your contract, your employer must cover transportation costs for your trip home.

Free Tools and Equipment

• Your employer must provide all tools and equipment needed for your job at no cost to you.

Protection Against Retaliation

• You cannot be punished, fired, or treated unfairly for asking about your rights, reporting problems, or helping others to do the same.

No Fees for Jobs

• Applying for an H-2B job is free. If someone tries to charge you money for the opportunity, they are breaking the rules. Don’t pay, and report them.

By knowing your rights, you can ensure a positive experience while working under the H-2B visa program. If you have questions or need assistance, reach out for help—you deserve to be treated fairly and with respect.

The JTP Agency is committed to ethical recruitment practices and supporting workers like you every step of the way.

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