Employers ask us about the agricultural H2A program.

• How long does it take to get ready for H2A workers?
  We recommend starting as early as possible. 2 months prior to need is a practical minimum.
• Can foreign (Mexican) workers help me get through the harvest and save me money?
  It depends entirely on your unique situation. If you have enough U.S. workers and they are working at their best efforts....maybe not. If you are unable to attract a sufficient number of eligible U.S. workers to do your work.....then the H2A program is an great option. If you increase your acreage and production, where will the workers you need come from?
• Can I use the H2A program as an INSURANCE Policy?
  Insurance is valuable. As a Certified Employer, you are under no obligation to use all the worker visas. When Visas are available to you in Mexico, you can use them as needed.
• What is the Minimum wages for foreign workers?
  The Department of Labor determines the Adverse wage rate for each State. This will be normally the minimum pay that you can pay your workers. If you pay piecework, you will want to make sure that your workers can earn that and still meet your other quality and piece work standards.
• Can I fire a foreign worker?
  All workers are to be treated fairly and equally. Workers can be dismissed "for cause". The employer needs to understand the requirements of the H2A program.
• What is the difference between H2A and H2B workers?
  H2A program is for agricultural workers. H2B is a similar program for non-agricultural temporary workers. H2B rules are different.
• What happens at the end of the worker contract?
  The worker is obligated to return their home country. The current employer or another Certified employer may extend the terms of the worker's stay in the US by application to the USCIS. The worker may stay continuously in the U.S. for no more than 3 years . If the worker doesn't return, he becomes Out of Status .
• What happens if a worker leaves earlier than the end of his contract?
  It depends. Family emergencies and other work absences are treated as you would any employee. The workers know that they will not receive another Work Visa if they leave your employment without reasonable cause. Screening in Mexico are needed to avoid problems.
• How much does Workers Compensation Insurance cost?
  Each State is different. Your rates will finally depend on your industry and your own "accident rate". As a new policy holder, you may go into an insurance pool. Liberty Mutual is the largest underwriter of Workers Compensation Insurance. A local insurance company in your area can apply for your policy. We can help you find an agent as needed. Citizens Insurance has the better S & P rating.
• I don't Speak Spanish, now what?
  Most of our workers speak ONLY Spanish. We can provide workers who speak some English if necessary. You can easily learn enough Spanish to communicate work related items. Some workers know quite a few English words even though they aren't fluent in English. Many are eager to learn some English. We look for workers in INTERIOR Mexico for their work ethics and capacity for hard work. For most employers, that is very important.
• The H2A Program seems to be complicated. Why should I go to all this trouble?
  As your agent, USAMEX Ltd takes care of the paperwork. The grower has the best view on the financial risks of not having enough good qualified workers.