The H2B visa allows US employers to bring foreign nationals to the US to fill temporary nonagricultural jobs. Regardless of whether the job is considered temporary, the employer’s need is temporary if the need is:
One time occurrence
OR
Seasonal need
OR
Peak load need
OR
Intermittent need
Generally, the initial stay is up to 1 year and may be extended in increments of up to 1 year. The maximum stay is 3 years. After 3 years, the H2B worker must depart the US and remain outside the US for at least 60 days before seeking readmission as a H2B nonimmigrant worker.
The H2B worker’s spouse and unmarried children under age 21 may seek nonimmigrant admission to the US but are not eligible for employment.