The alternative:

The H-2A visa is a temporary nonimmigrant visa that allows foreign workers to enter the United States for agricultural work when there is a shortage of domestic workers. This program is designed to help U.S. agricultural employers fill temporary or seasonal labor needs.

The catch:

To qualify for the H-2A visa, the employer must demonstrate that there are not enough U.S. workers available to perform the temporary agricultural work, and that hiring foreign workers will not negatively impact the wages and working conditions of U.S. workers.

Additionally, the employer must provide free housing, meals, and transportation for the workers, and pay them a wage that is at least as high as the prevailing wage in the area.

The H-2A visa is typically valid for up to one year, with the possibility of two one-year extensions, after which the worker must leave the U.S. for at least three months before reapplying. The program also includes provisions for workers’ compensation, adherence to U.S. wage laws, and oversight by the U.S. Department of Labor to ensure compliance with labor standards.