Introduction to Specialty Visas for Agriculture Employers
Published on Tuesday, January 14, 2025
By Brandi Knox
What are specialty visas?
Specialty visas are U.S. government visa programs, other than H-2A, that help employers meet workforce needs beyond agricultural labor, from seasonal or specialized professional roles to structured training and exchange programs.
Types of specialty visas
Type | Purpose | Eligible workers | Duration | Key considerations |
H-2B | Seasonal or peak-load non-agricultural labor needs | Foreign workers filling temporary, non-ag roles | Up to 9 months per certification (up to 3 years of work authorization) | Annual cap and lottery apply |
TN | Professional roles requiring relevant higher-level degrees | Canadian or Mexican professionals in eligible occupations | Up to 3 years per entry; renewable | Degree must match TN professional classifications |
J-1 Intern | Short-term training for students or recent graduates | Current foreign students or recent grads (within 12 months) | Up to 12 months | Must include structured training plan and cultural exchange |
J-1 Trainee | Professional training for early-in-career talent | Foreign professionals with relevant education or experience and English proficiency | Up to 18 months | |
L-1 (A / B / Blanket) | Intracompany transfers | Foreign managers, executives, or employees with specialized knowledge | 5–7 years (varies by category) | Must have qualifying foreign–U.S. entity relationship and minimum one-year employment abroad |
Green Card (Employment-Based) | Permanent workforce retention | Foreign workers in long-term, permanent roles | Permanent | Multi-step process; intent and timing are critical for applicants with temporary visas |
Specialty Visa Services
Choosing the right option
The right visa depends on:
Whether the role is temporary or permanent
The skill level of the position
The worker’s citizenship and background
Your business structure and long-term workforce plans
Seso helps employers assess eligibility and timing before moving forward.
Simplify hiring with Seso
We help employers navigate a range of specialty visa programs to hire, train, transfer, and retain international talent with less risk and better approval outcomes.
Strategic visa guidance
We help you identify the right visa options based on your workforce needs, timing, and business structure.
Preparation with peace of mind
We align roles, job details, and documentation with program requirements to minimize risk and maximize approval outcomes.
End-to-end case management
We manage filings and guide each case through the appropriate sponsor, consular, and government processes.
Continuous support
As roles or timelines change, we remain ready to assess next steps and keep you aligned with program requirements.
3 steps to get started
Identify your workforce needs and timeline.
Review which visa options may apply.
Partner with Seso to start your filing process.
Categories: Legal
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