If you’re searching for a legal way to work in the United States, and you’re open to physically demanding but steady work, farm worker jobs with visa sponsorship could be the right starting point. These roles don’t just offer competitive hourly pay—they also give you the chance to enter the U.S. legally, gain work experience, and build a future for yourself or your family.
You don’t need a college degree for this type of job. You don’t need fluent English. What you need is a willingness to work, follow instructions, and meet the job requirements. That’s why thousands of foreign workers apply every year under the U.S. H-2A visa program, which allows agricultural employers to bring in foreign workers for seasonal farm work.
Let’s go through everything you need to know—how to qualify, how much you can earn, what the job involves, and how to apply legally.
What is the H-2A Visa for Farm Workers?
The H-2A visa is a temporary work visa for foreign nationals who want to work in U.S. agriculture. It’s designed for seasonal farm jobs—things like picking fruits, planting vegetables, operating farm machinery, milking cows, or working in greenhouses.
To get this visa, you must be hired by a U.S. employer who has approval from the Department of Labor to hire foreign workers. That employer will submit the visa paperwork, provide housing, and cover your travel costs from your home country to the job site. You can only stay for the duration of the contract, but you may be eligible to return for future seasons.
Salary: How Much Can You Earn?
In 2025, wages for farm workers under the H-2A visa vary by state and type of work, but many jobs now offer $30 per hour or more, especially for roles that require experience or operate in high-cost states.
Here’s a quick look at average H-2A hourly rates by region:
| State | Hourly Wage (2025 Avg.) |
|---|---|
| California | $30.00 – $34.00/hour |
| Washington | $31.00 – $35.00/hour |
| Oregon | $30.50 – $33.00/hour |
| New York | $29.00 – $32.00/hour |
| Michigan | $28.00 – $31.00/hour |
| Texas | $27.00 – $30.00/hour |
Note: Rates may go higher for workers operating tractors, handling livestock, or working in specialized greenhouse operations.
In addition to wages, most employers are also required by law to:
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Provide free housing
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Offer transportation to and from job sites
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Pay for round-trip travel from your home country
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Cover visa processing fees
So, the actual value of your job is more than just the hourly wage.
What Kind of Work Will You Do?
Farm work is physical and often outdoors. You should be ready to:
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Pick, plant, sort, and pack fruits and vegetables
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Load and unload produce
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Operate basic farm equipment (with training)
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Care for animals (feeding, cleaning stalls, collecting eggs)
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Perform general maintenance on farm property
Some jobs are more repetitive. Others require lifting heavy items or working long shifts in heat or cold. Employers will explain what is expected in the contract before you accept the offer.
Who Can Apply?
To apply for a U.S. farm job under the H-2A program, you must:
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Be 18 years or older
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Be physically fit and able to work outdoors
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Have a valid passport
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Apply through a licensed employer or recruiter
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Be willing to return home at the end of the contract
You do not need to speak perfect English or have advanced education. What matters more is your reliability and your willingness to work. Many workers return season after season once they build a strong relationship with their employer.
How Long Can You Stay?
The standard contract under the H-2A program lasts for up to 10 months, depending on the season and type of crop. You must leave the U.S. when your contract ends. However, many employers rehire the same workers the next year, and some contracts even get extended legally while you’re in the U.S.
The maximum time you can stay under H-2A status is 3 years, after which you must leave for at least 3 months before applying again.
How to Apply for a Farm Worker Job in the U.S. with Visa Sponsorship
You cannot apply for the visa by yourself—you need a job offer from a licensed U.S. employer who is registered under the H-2A program. Here’s how to find those employers:
1. Use the Official Job Board
Check the U.S. Department of Labor’s job board for H-2A roles here:
👉 Seasonal Jobs Website
You can filter by “H-2A” and search by job title or state. This site lists real jobs that are already approved for visa sponsorship.
2. Apply Through Verified Recruiters
Many employers work with agencies in countries like Mexico, Guatemala, the Philippines, and Jamaica. Be careful to only work with agencies registered with your government or approved by the U.S. embassy in your country.
3. Avoid Scams
A real job offer will never ask you to pay large upfront fees. Visa fees and travel costs are paid by the employer, not by the worker. Be cautious of anyone asking for money or promising “guaranteed visas.”
Benefits of Farm Jobs with Sponsorship
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Legal pathway to work in the U.S.
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High hourly pay, especially for physical jobs
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Free housing and transportation
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No degree required
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Possible return each season or longer-term work if re-hired
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Build a positive work history in the U.S., useful for future immigration options
These jobs are also a great option for people who want to earn money quickly, support their families back home, or even explore future U.S. immigration pathways through employer sponsorship or family reunification.
Final Note
If you’re looking for a reliable job in the U.S. with visa sponsorship and high pay, working as a farm laborer under the H-2A program is a real option in 2025. The work is tough, but the benefits are strong—especially when you consider that housing, transport, and visa costs are fully covered.
Thousands of people apply for these jobs every year from across Latin America, Asia, and the Caribbean. And while competition is growing, many U.S. farms are still struggling to fill positions—so if you’re willing to work hard and follow the rules, there is a place for you.