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Work in U.S. hospitality with the Resort Leaders H-2B visa program

Want to work in the U.S.? The H-2B program places you in seasonal hospitality jobs at world-class American resorts — earn a competitive wage, gain real industry experience, and build professional skills that last.

A U.S. resort welcoming guests

A seasonal job. A lifetime of experience.

Work at U.S. resorts.

Hospitality, food service, and recreation.

Up to 9 months in the U.S.

Seasonal opportunities throughout the year.

Competitive wages.

Work a minimum of 35 hours per week, with the potential for more (dependent on employer’s needs).

No prior U.S. experience needed.

Just bring your enthusiasm and skills.

Beachfront resort with palm trees in the U.S.

Work. Earn. Grow.

Gain real hospitality experience at a U.S. resort, sharpen in-demand skills, and earn a competitive wage you take home.

Chef preparing a dish at a U.S. resort kitchenFront desk team member welcoming guestsResort kitchen team member cookingChef plating fine dining at a resort restaurant

H-2B locations

From beachside escapes to mountain resorts, Resort Leaders places H-2B participants in locations across the U.S., including:

  • 4-5 star luxury resorts
  • Beach resorts
  • Mountain lodges
  • Ski resorts

Example H-2B roles

Find a role that fits your skills and experience. The most common H-2B positions include:

  • Prep & Line Cooks
  • Front Desk
  • Dishwashers
  • Housekeeping
  • Dining Room Attendants
  • Bussers
  • Laundry
  • Golf Course Maintenance
  • Recreation Attendants

Application process

We make the process simple, stress-free, and rewarding, so you can focus on what really matters—the experience of a lifetime.

  1. Apply and complete your profile

    Submit your application and fill out your Resort Leaders profile so we can match you to the right role.

  2. Pre-screen interview

    A short interview with our team to check your English and make sure the program is the right fit for you.

  3. Match with an employer

    Interview with resorts that need staff. Once an employer confirms you, your placement is set.

  4. Get prepared

    Sign your offer, complete onboarding, and book your U.S. visa appointment. The Resort Leaders team will guide you every step of the way on the timing of these tasks. Returning H-2B workers can sometimes skip this step.

  5. Fly out and start work

    Your employer arranges your flights. You travel to the resort and begin your season.

  6. On program

    Work your season with support from our team. An extension to another property may be possible, reviewed case by case.

Who can apply?

To qualify for the H-2B program, you must:

  • Speak, read, and write fluent English
  • Be available for the full program duration (usually 9 months)
  • Be living in your home country for the 3 months before your start date
  • Have a valid passport for at least six months beyond the end date of your visa
  • Meet the physical requirements of the job
  • Not be in the process of applying for U.S. citizenship

What does it cost?

The H-2B program is free to apply with Resort Leaders and your employer will cover the costs of your flights and visa application.

Important information

  • You must only work for the employer listed on your visa
  • Your position and job role are pre-approved. You must not switch roles
  • Work a minimum of 35 hours per week, with the potential for more (dependent on employer’s needs)
  • Payroll deductions may apply (U.S. and state taxes, housing, etc.)
  • At the end of your program, you must return home

Dates

Resort Leaders offers H-2B opportunities year-round, with key seasons:

  • Spring – Winter: April to January
  • Fall – Summer: October to July

Why choose Resort Leaders?

Trusted. Experienced. Dedicated to you.

Resort Leaders is part of Smaller Earth Group, a global leader in cultural exchange and international work programs. We’ve been helping people like you find exciting job opportunities abroad for over 20 years.

Resort Leaders team and participants gathered together
No program fees.

Completely free to apply.

A job secured

before you fly.

Flights arranged

and covered by your employer.

Dedicated support team

to support you from application to arrival.

Frequently asked questions

What is the H-2B visa?
The H-2B is a temporary U.S. work visa for seasonal, non-agricultural jobs — including hospitality and resort roles. A U.S. employer sponsors you for a specific role and season.
What hospitality jobs can I do on the H-2B program?
Common roles include cooks, front desk, housekeeping, dining room and bar staff, dishwashers, laundry, golf course maintenance and recreation attendants at hotels and resorts across the U.S.
How long can I work in the U.S. on an H-2B visa?
H-2B placements are seasonal — typically up to 9 months. Your exact dates depend on the employer and season you are matched with.
Do I need previous experience to apply?
While previous hospitality or U.S. experience is not required, it is preferred by our resort partners and may be prioritized during the interview process. However, you will need fluent English, the right attitude, and the ability to meet the physical requirements of the role.
How much do H-2B hospitality workers earn?
You are paid at least the prevailing wage set for your role and location by the U.S. Department of Labor, typically for a 35-hour week. Please keep in mind that there may be a few times during the program where the demand on property dips below the 35-hour minimum — this is to be expected and is within compliance of the program.
How much does it cost to apply?
Applying with Resort Leaders is free, and your employer covers the cost of your flights and visa application.
What is the difference between the H-2B and J-1 visa?
The J-1 is a cultural-exchange visa, such as Summer Work Travel or internships. The H-2B is a seasonal employment visa — usually longer, role-specific, and focused on filling a U.S. employer’s staffing need. Additionally, for the H-2B you work for one employer only and are not awarded 30 days after your program for travel.
Do I have to return home after the program?
The H-2B visa is temporary, so you return home when your program ends. In some cases an extension with another U.S. employer may be available, reviewed case by case. Many participants also reapply for future seasons.

Spots fill fast

Opportunities are limited each season, so apply early to secure your place.