H2B America - Participants

The H2B America Program provides international workers with the opportunity to work in the United States for up to 9 months.

What Distinguishes Spirit’s H2B America Program from other H2B Programs?

Spirit and its agents assist with the visa application process and identify a position for the participant paying at least $6 per hour with an average of 35 hours of work per week over the course of the program. Many employers also provide housing or will identify sources of housing for their H2B participants. Spirit’s 24-hour support services are also available to participants in case of an emergency.  Because Spirit is focused on quality, you will always receive the personal attention that you deserve!

What Kind of Jobs Are Available?

H2B America Program participants are placed in seasonal, manual labor positions such as in housekeeping at a hotel or working at a factory.  Positions generally last 5 – 9 months and offer an average of 35 hours of work per week over the course of the program. Wages are often paid at or slightly above $6/hour.  We work with a variety of employers across the United States, including amusement parks, hotels, restaurants, factories, grocery stores or other companies seeking seasonal help. Special placement requests are accommodated when possible, but applicants must be open to considering a position in any industry across the United States.

Where Do H2B America Participants Live?

H2B employers generally identify housing that is both affordable and conveniently located to the work location or public transportation. Housing options vary from university dormitories to apartments to on-site housing at the employer, and often cost less than 30% of the participant’s expected monthly earnings. Usually, housing is shared with other international workers, which is more affordable and provides a great opportunity to socialize!

When employers are unable to provide housing, local housing sources will be provided along with the job offer. In this case, it will be the participant’s responsibility to identify and secure housing through these sources.

What Kind of Additional Expenses Should Be Expected?

Participants should expect some additional expenses before and upon arrival in the USA. Housing deposit and rental fees, meals, international airfare, domestic transportation in the USA and airport transfers are not included in the program provided by Spirit Cultural Exchange. Generally, we recommend that participants have at least $500 available upon arrival in the USA in traveler's checks or other means to cover initial "settling in" costs until the first paycheck.  Participants should budget for an additional $500-$800 per month to cover housing, meals, and personal expenses.  These amounts may vary depending on spending habits and work location.

What is Included in the H2B America Program?

The H2B program includes one job offer lasting 5 – 9 months, an affordable housing option or contact information for sources of affordable housing, comprehensive accident and medical insurance and 24-hour support from Spirit’s experienced staff.

What Qualifications Are Required to Participate?

To participate in the H2B America Program, applicants must meet the following qualifications:

• 18–40 years old
• Able to demonstrate an intermediate level of English through an in-person interview in
         home country
• English test score (SLEP=45)
• Willing to work in an entry-level job paying at or close to $6/hour
• Interested in learning about the culture and people of the United States