$35,000 to $50,000 jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship exist primarily through seasonal work programs (H-2A, H-2B), exchange visitor positions (J-1), entry-level teaching and healthcare support roles, and certain TN visa occupations for Canadians and Mexicans. While this salary range presents more challenges than higher-paying positions due to prevailing wage requirements and sponsorship costs, international workers can successfully target specific industries, visa categories, and geographic regions where $35k–$50k represents legitimate compensation with sponsorship opportunities.
The Reality of $35k–$50k Visa Sponsorship
Let’s be direct: finding visa sponsorship for $35,000–$50,000 positions is harder than landing $60k+ roles, but it’s absolutely not impossible. You need to understand what works and what doesn’t in this salary band.
The challenge is straightforward: Most H-1B “specialty occupation” jobs require prevailing wages that exceed $35,000–$50,000 in major cities. When an employer sponsors a work visa, they must pay at least the prevailing wage for that occupation in that location. For software developers in California, that might be $90,000. For accountants in New York, maybe $65,000. These prevailing wages are set by the Department of Labor and aren’t negotiable.
So where do $35,000–$50,000 visa sponsorship opportunities actually exist?
Seasonal and temporary work programs specifically designed for agricultural, hospitality, and service roles where $35k–$50k is standard pay.
Entry-level professional positions in low-cost states where prevailing wages for teachers, social workers, or healthcare support staff naturally fall within $35,000–$50,000.
Cultural exchange programs that combine work with training or educational objectives at entry-level compensation.
Certain skilled trades and technical roles in rural areas where local wage standards align with $35k–$50k.
Canadian and Mexican professionals using TN visas in eligible occupations where starting salaries begin at $35,000–$50,000.
The $35,000–$50,000 range can support basic living in many smaller U.S. cities, rural communities, and states with lower costs of living—places like rural Montana, small-town Arkansas, agricultural regions in Central California, or hospitality areas in seasonal tourist destinations.
Visa Programs That Actually Work at $35k–$50k
Forget one-size-fits-all advice. Different visa categories serve different purposes, and some are specifically built for the $35,000–$50,000 salary range.
H-2A: Seasonal Agricultural Work
H-2A visas are designed exactly for agricultural positions paying around $35,000–$50,000 annually.
This visa covers temporary or seasonal agricultural labor when U.S. workers aren’t available. Think farm work, harvest operations, nursery duties, livestock handling, and crop maintenance.
How H-2A works for $35k–$50k earners:
No annual visa cap—if an employer gets approval, you get the visa.
Wages are set by federal and state guidelines (Adverse Effect Wage Rates), typically yielding $35,000–$50,000 for full seasonal work (6-10 months).
Employers must provide free housing, transportation to the U.S., and meals or meal allowances.
Duration matches the seasonal need, usually 6-12 months, renewable for up to 3 years total.
Typical earnings: Agricultural workers on H-2A commonly earn $14-$18 per hour, which translates to roughly $29,000–$37,000 for a full season, though longer seasons or higher state rates can push earnings to $40,000–$50,000.
Major H-2A employers: Large farms in California, Florida, Georgia, Washington, North Carolina, and throughout agricultural regions recruit thousands of H-2A workers annually.
H-2B: Non-Agricultural Seasonal Work
H-2B covers temporary non-agricultural jobs, many paying $35,000–$50,000.
This visa serves seasonal industries like hospitality, landscaping, construction, seafood processing, and resort operations.
H-2B characteristics for $35k–$50k positions:
Annual cap of 66,000 visas (33,000 per half-year), though Congress sometimes authorizes additional visas.
Positions must be temporary or seasonal—you can’t use H-2B for permanent year-round jobs.
Common roles: resort housekeepers, landscapers, ski resort workers, seafood processors, construction laborers, amusement park staff.
Wages vary by occupation and location but frequently fall within $35,000–$50,000 for seasonal contracts.
Example seasonal earnings: A ski resort worker in Colorado might earn $15-$18/hour for a 5-month season ($12,000–$15,600), while a landscaper working 8 months at $17/hour could earn around $35,000–$40,000. Multiple seasons or extended hours push totals toward $45,000–$50,000.
Top H-2B industries: Hospitality and tourism (beach resorts, ski areas), landscaping companies, seafood processing (Alaska, Maryland, Louisiana), and construction firms hire extensively through H-2B.
J-1: Exchange Visitor Programs
J-1 visas support cultural exchange, training, and education—including work authorization for positions often paying $35,000–$50,000.
J-1 isn’t technically employment-based sponsorship like H-1B, but it provides legal work authorization for specific programs.
J-1 categories relevant to $35k–$50k work:
Internships: College students or recent graduates work in their field for 12 months, earning entry-level salaries often in the $30,000–$45,000 range.
Trainee positions: Professionals get structured training lasting up to 18 months, with stipends or salaries around $35,000–$50,000.
Camp counselors: Summer camp positions providing room, board, and stipends equivalent to $8,000–$15,000 for summer seasons.
Au pairs: Live-in childcare with weekly stipends ($195.75 minimum), room, and board, totaling roughly $12,000–$15,000 annually plus free housing.
Teachers: Short-term teaching positions in primary and secondary schools, sometimes paying $35,000–$50,000 in smaller districts.
Summer Work Travel: Students work seasonal jobs during summer break, often in hospitality, tourism, or retail at hourly wages.
J-1 programs are administered through designated sponsor organizations, and wages must meet all applicable requirements for the position type and location.
TN: Canadian and Mexican Professionals
TN status under USMCA covers specific professional occupations, some with starting salaries in the $35,000–$50,000 range.
If you’re Canadian or Mexican, TN is your easiest path to U.S. employment, including certain entry-level professional positions.
TN professions where entry-level pay may be $35k–$50k:
Teachers: College, seminary, and university instructors; some entry positions in smaller institutions start around $40,000–$50,000.
Social workers: Entry-level positions in rural or low-cost states sometimes begin at $38,000–$48,000.
Dietitians: Starting salaries in smaller healthcare facilities or schools can be $40,000–$50,000.
Recreational therapists: Entry-level positions occasionally start around $38,000–$48,000.
Medical technologists: Entry positions in smaller labs or rural hospitals may begin at $42,000–$50,000.
Note: Most TN professions command salaries above $50k, but entry-level positions in low-cost regions can fall into the $35,000–$50,000 band. TN has no annual cap, no lottery, and relatively simple application processes at the border (Canadians) or consulates (Mexicans).
F-1 OPT: Practical Training for Students
F-1 students can work on Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation, often in entry-level positions paying $35,000–$50,000.
While not employer-sponsored visa sponsorship, OPT provides 12 months (36 months for STEM fields) of work authorization that can lead to eventual H-1B sponsorship once you prove your value.
Entry-level positions during OPT frequently pay $35,000–$50,000, especially in smaller companies, non-profit organizations, or lower-cost regions. This can serve as a stepping stone to higher-paying sponsored positions.
Industries Hiring at $35k–$50k With Sponsorship
Certain sectors consistently offer $35,000–$50,000 positions with visa sponsorship through appropriate visa categories.
Agriculture and Farming
Agriculture is the largest employer of $35,000–$50,000 visa-sponsored workers through H-2A.
The U.S. agricultural industry relies heavily on seasonal foreign workers for planting, cultivation, harvesting, and processing.
Common agricultural positions with $35k–$50k earnings:
General farm workers handling crops from planting through harvest
Greenhouse and nursery workers growing plants, flowers, and seedlings
Livestock workers caring for cattle, poultry, sheep, or pigs
Irrigation specialists managing water systems
Equipment operators running tractors and farm machinery
Harvest supervisors overseeing picking crews (higher end of $35k–$50k)
Packing house workers sorting and packaging produce
Typical H-2A earnings: $28,000–$45,000 depending on season length, state wage rates, and hours worked. Longer seasons in high-wage states like California or Washington can push annual earnings to $45,000–$50,000.
Major agricultural states for H-2A: California, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Washington, Oregon, Michigan, Louisiana, and throughout the South and West.
Hospitality and Tourism
Hotels, resorts, and tourist destinations sponsor H-2B and J-1 workers for seasonal positions paying $35,000–$50,000 or less.
Tourism is heavily seasonal, creating perfect conditions for temporary work visas.
Sponsored hospitality roles in the $35k–$50k range:
Housekeepers and room attendants at resorts and hotels
Front desk clerks at seasonal properties
Food service workers in resort restaurants
Ski resort lift operators and rental shop staff
Beach resort groundskeepers and maintenance workers
Amusement park ride operators and guest services
National park concession workers
Earnings: Most positions pay $14-$18/hour for 5-8 month seasons, yielding $20,000–$40,000. Full-season workers with overtime can approach $45,000–$50,000.
Top locations: Ski resorts (Colorado, Utah, Vermont), beach destinations (Florida, Hawaii, Carolinas, California), national parks (Wyoming, Montana, Arizona), and major tourist cities.
Education and Childcare
Schools and childcare programs sponsor workers through J-1 exchange programs and occasionally H-1B for positions paying $35,000–$50,000.
Education-related $35k–$50k sponsored positions:
Au pairs (J-1): Live with host families providing childcare, earning weekly stipends of $195.75 minimum plus room, board, and education allowance—total value around $25,000–$30,000 when accounting for free housing and meals.
Camp counselors (J-1): Work at summer camps for 9-12 weeks earning $2,000–$4,000 plus room and board.
Teaching assistants: Some school districts in low-cost areas hire foreign teaching assistants through J-1 or occasionally H-1B at $35,000–$48,000.
ESL teachers: Entry-level English as a Second Language teachers in smaller programs sometimes start at $38,000–$50,000.
Special education paraprofessionals: Support staff in schools occasionally sponsored at $32,000–$45,000, especially in shortage areas.
Healthcare Support
Healthcare facilities sponsor certain support and entry-level positions in the $35,000–$50,000 range, particularly in rural or underserved areas.
Healthcare roles with potential $35k–$50k sponsorship:
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs): Entry-level positions in long-term care facilities start around $30,000–$40,000; experienced CNAs in higher-paying states can earn $40,000–$50,000.
Home health aides: Provide in-home care, earning $28,000–$42,000 depending on hours and location.
Medical assistants: Entry-level positions in clinics and physician offices pay $32,000–$45,000.
Pharmacy technicians: Entry positions start around $32,000–$42,000, reaching $45,000–$50,000 with experience.
Dental assistants: Entry-level roles begin at $35,000–$45,000.
Sponsorship in healthcare support roles is less common than for professional nursing or therapy positions, but facilities in severe shortage areas occasionally sponsor workers, particularly through H-1B if the position can be classified as specialty occupation or through state-specific visa programs.
Landscaping and Groundskeeping
Landscaping companies use H-2B extensively for seasonal workers earning $35,000–$50,000 annually.
Commercial landscaping, golf course maintenance, and grounds maintenance at institutions create substantial seasonal demand.
Typical landscaping positions:
Landscape laborers planting, mulching, and maintaining properties
Groundskeepers at golf courses, parks, and commercial properties
Tree care workers (arborists and climbers at the higher end of $35k–$50k)
Irrigation installers and repair technicians
Lawn care specialists applying treatments and maintaining turf
Earnings: $15-$19/hour for 7-10 month seasons yields roughly $30,000–$45,000, with supervisory roles and longer seasons reaching $48,000–$50,000.
Geographic hotspots: Northeast corridor (Maryland to Massachusetts), Southeast (Florida, Georgia, Carolinas), and growing regions in Texas and Midwest.
Food Processing and Seafood
Meat processing plants, seafood operations, and food manufacturing facilities sponsor H-2B workers for seasonal positions often paying $35,000–$45,000.
Common food processing roles:
Seafood processors in Alaska, Maryland, Louisiana, and Maine cleaning, cutting, and packing fish and shellfish
Poultry processing workers at chicken and turkey plants
Meat packing plant workers
Food production line workers during peak harvest seasons
Earnings: $14-$17/hour for seasonal work (typically 6-9 months) produces annual earnings of $25,000–$40,000, though overtime and longer seasons can push totals toward $45,000–$50,000.
Construction and Trades
Construction companies sponsor H-2B workers for seasonal projects, with experienced workers earning toward the higher end of $35,000–$50,000.
Construction positions with potential sponsorship:
General construction laborers at $30,000–$42,000 for seasonal work
Carpenters and framing specialists at $38,000–$50,000+
Roofers during busy seasons earning $35,000–$50,000
Concrete workers and masons at $35,000–$50,000
Painters and finishing workers at $32,000–$48,000
Note: Skilled trades often exceed $50k, but entry-level and shorter seasonal contracts can fall within the $35,000–$50,000 band. Geographic location heavily influences construction wages—rural areas and lower-cost states pay less than major metros.
Specific $35k–$50k Jobs With Sponsorship Potential
Here’s a clear breakdown of actual positions where international workers find $35,000–$50,000 sponsorship opportunities.
Agricultural and Farm Positions
Farm Worker (H-2A)
- Salary: $28,000–$42,000 annually
- Type: Crop cultivation, harvesting, general farm labor
- Visa: H-2A
- Locations: California, Florida, Georgia, Washington, North Carolina
Nursery Worker (H-2A)
- Salary: $30,000–$45,000 annually
- Type: Plant cultivation, greenhouse operations
- Visa: H-2A
- Locations: Oregon, California, Florida, Texas, Michigan
Livestock Worker (H-2A)
- Salary: $32,000–$48,000 annually
- Type: Animal care, feeding, dairy operations
- Visa: H-2A
- Locations: Texas, California, Wisconsin, New York, Idaho
Harvest Supervisor (H-2A)
- Salary: $40,000–$50,000 annually
- Type: Crew leadership, harvest coordination
- Visa: H-2A
- Locations: Agricultural regions nationwide
Hospitality and Service Roles
Housekeeper/Room Attendant (H-2B)
- Salary: $24,000–$38,000 for seasonal work
- Type: Hotel/resort cleaning, room preparation
- Visa: H-2B, J-1
- Locations: Florida, Hawaii, Colorado ski resorts, beach destinations
Ski Resort Worker (H-2B)
- Salary: $20,000–$35,000 for winter season
- Type: Lift operations, rentals, food service, maintenance
- Visa: H-2B, J-1
- Locations: Colorado, Utah, Vermont, California, Wyoming
Groundskeeper (H-2B)
- Salary: $32,000–$48,000 annually
- Type: Landscape maintenance, golf courses, resort grounds
- Visa: H-2B
- Locations: Florida, Arizona, Carolinas, California, Texas
Food Service Worker (H-2B)
- Salary: $25,000–$40,000 for seasonal contracts
- Type: Restaurant staff, resort dining operations
- Visa: H-2B, J-1
- Locations: Tourist destinations, seasonal resort areas
Education and Cultural Exchange
Au Pair (J-1)
- Salary: $195.75/week stipend + room and board (total value ~$25,000–$30,000)
- Type: Live-in childcare, cultural exchange
- Visa: J-1 Au Pair
- Locations: Suburban areas nationwide, major metros
Camp Counselor (J-1)
- Salary: $2,000–$4,000 for summer + room and board
- Type: Summer camp supervision, activities leadership
- Visa: J-1 Camp Counselor
- Locations: Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, mountain states
Teaching Assistant (J-1 or H-1B)
- Salary: $35,000–$48,000 annually
- Type: Classroom support, ESL assistance, subject tutoring
- Visa: J-1 Teacher, sometimes H-1B
- Locations: Rural districts, low-cost states, underserved schools
ESL Teacher (J-1 or H-1B)
- Salary: $38,000–$50,000 in smaller programs
- Type: English language instruction
- Visa: J-1 Teacher, H-1B in some cases
- Locations: Smaller school districts, language programs
Healthcare Support
Certified Nursing Assistant (H-1B rare, mostly domestic)
- Salary: $30,000–$45,000
- Type: Patient care assistance in nursing homes, hospitals
- Visa: Occasionally H-1B in severe shortage areas
- Locations: Rural areas, smaller facilities in underserved regions
Medical Assistant (H-1B possible)
- Salary: $32,000–$45,000
- Type: Clinical support, patient intake, basic procedures
- Visa: H-1B if position structured as specialty occupation
- Locations: Clinics in rural or low-cost areas
Home Health Aide (Limited sponsorship)
- Salary: $28,000–$42,000
- Type: In-home patient care and support
- Visa: Rarely sponsored; mostly domestic workforce
- Locations: Various, particularly areas with aging populations
Landscaping and Outdoors
Landscaper (H-2B)
- Salary: $32,000–$48,000 for 7-10 month seasons
- Type: Planting, maintenance, commercial landscaping
- Visa: H-2B
- Locations: Northeast, Southeast, Texas, Midwest
Golf Course Groundskeeper (H-2B)
- Salary: $30,000–$45,000 seasonally
- Type: Turf maintenance, course upkeep
- Visa: H-2B
- Locations: Golf-heavy states—Florida, Arizona, Carolinas, California
Tree Care Worker (H-2B)
- Salary: $35,000–$50,000+ for experienced climbers
- Type: Tree trimming, removal, arborist support
- Visa: H-2B
- Locations: Urban and suburban areas nationwide
Food Processing
Seafood Processor (H-2B)
- Salary: $25,000–$40,000 for processing seasons
- Type: Fish cleaning, cutting, packing
- Visa: H-2B
- Locations: Alaska, Maryland, Louisiana, Maine, Washington
Poultry Processing Worker (H-2B)
- Salary: $28,000–$42,000
- Type: Chicken/turkey processing line work
- Visa: H-2B
- Locations: Arkansas, Georgia, North Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi
Skilled Trades (Entry Level)
Construction Laborer (H-2B)
- Salary: $32,000–$45,000 for seasonal projects
- Type: General construction support, materials handling
- Visa: H-2B
- Locations: Growing metro areas, seasonal construction regions
Carpenter Helper (H-2B)
- Salary: $35,000–$48,000
- Type: Framing, finishing, general carpentry support
- Visa: H-2B
- Locations: Construction-heavy states
Painter (H-2B)
- Salary: $32,000–$48,000
- Type: Residential and commercial painting
- Visa: H-2B
- Locations: Various, particularly seasonal markets
Note: Earnings in seasonal positions depend heavily on season length, overtime hours, and specific state wage rates. Annual figures assume full seasonal employment.
Finding $35k–$50k Jobs With Sponsorship
The search strategy for $35,000–$50,000 sponsored positions differs significantly from higher-paying professional job hunts.
H-2 Visa Job Agencies and Recruiters
Most H-2A and H-2B positions are filled through specialized recruiting agencies.
These agencies work directly with U.S. employers who need seasonal workers, handling recruitment, visa processing, and worker placement.
How to connect with H-2 recruiters:
Search for “H-2A jobs” or “H-2B visa jobs” plus your country.
Contact international recruitment agencies in Mexico, Central America, Caribbean, Eastern Europe, and Southeast Asia that specialize in U.S. seasonal work.
Research registered H-2 visa agents who maintain relationships with U.S. agricultural and hospitality employers.
Attend recruitment events in your home country hosted by U.S. employers or their agents.
Be cautious: Legitimate recruiters don’t charge excessive fees. U.S. law prohibits workers from paying H-2A recruitment fees and limits H-2B fees. Research agencies thoroughly to avoid scams.
J-1 Sponsor Organizations
J-1 exchange visitor programs operate through designated sponsor organizations approved by the U.S. State Department.
You don’t apply directly to employers for most J-1 positions—you go through sponsor organizations that match you with host companies or families.
Finding J-1 opportunities:
Research State Department-designated J-1 sponsors for your desired program category (intern, trainee, au pair, camp counselor, summer work travel).
Popular J-1 sponsors include InterExchange, CIEE, Cultural Care Au Pair, Camp America, CDS International, and many others.
Apply through sponsor organization websites, providing credentials and preferences.
Sponsors handle matching, placement, visa processing, and program oversight.
Program fees: J-1 participants typically pay program fees to sponsor organizations ($1,000–$3,000+ depending on program type), separate from what they earn.
Direct Employer Websites
Some large employers that regularly use seasonal visas post positions directly.
Target these employer types:
Large agricultural operations and farm management companies in California, Florida, Washington, and other agricultural states.
Major hotel chains and resort management companies (particularly those operating seasonal properties).
National restaurant and hospitality groups with seasonal locations.
Landscaping and lawn care companies with multiple locations and large seasonal needs.
Food processing companies, particularly seafood operations with known H-2B programs.
Visit career pages and look for “seasonal employment” or “H-2B positions” sections. Some clearly state they sponsor seasonal work visas.
State and Regional Job Boards
Agricultural workforce and seasonal job boards aggregate positions that may include visa sponsorship.
Useful job boards for $35k–$50k seasonal positions:
State agricultural department job boards (California, Florida, Washington employment sites).
Resort and hospitality job boards specific to regions like Colorado ski country or beach destinations.
Seasonal work websites that include visa sponsorship filters.
Rural employment boards in agricultural regions.
Canadian and Mexican Professional Networks
If you’re Canadian or Mexican, TN visa positions at $35,000–$50,000 can be found through normal job boards.
Use Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor searching for entry-level positions in TN-eligible professions (teachers, social workers, dietitians, technologists) in low-cost states where starting salaries align with $35k–$50k.
Filter by states like Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, rural areas of Texas, New Mexico, Montana, Wyoming, and similar lower-cost regions.
Apply directly; mention TN eligibility in cover letters as a positive (no lottery, no cap, fast processing).
University Career Services (for J-1 and OPT)
If you’ve studied in the U.S. or are currently an international student, leverage university resources.
Career services offices at universities with large international populations help students find OPT positions, J-1 internships, and entry-level jobs that may pay $35,000–$50,000.
Attend career fairs, use alumni networks, and work with advisors who understand international student employment.
Strategies to Secure $35k–$50k Sponsorship
Landing $35,000–$50,000 sponsored positions requires different tactics than pursuing six-figure professional roles.
Target the Right Visa Category
Don’t waste time pursuing H-1B for positions that don’t qualify or can’t meet prevailing wages.
If you’re looking at farm work, landscaping, hospitality, or construction, focus on H-2A and H-2B.
If you want entry-level professional experience, cultural exchange, or training, explore J-1 programs.
If you’re Canadian or Mexican in an eligible profession, leverage TN advantages.
Match your target job to the visa category designed for it rather than forcing square pegs into round holes.
Be Geographically Flexible
$35,000–$50,000 goes far in low-cost areas but barely covers rent in expensive cities.
Target positions in rural areas, smaller cities, and states with lower costs of living where $35k–$50k represents reasonable local compensation.
Agricultural work takes you to farm regions. Resort work takes you to seasonal destinations. Be willing to live where the work is.
Many seasonal positions include housing, which dramatically improves financial viability at $35,000–$50,000 salary levels.
Accept Seasonal and Temporary Work
Most $35,000–$50,000 visa sponsorship is seasonal or temporary by design.
H-2 visas are explicitly for temporary or seasonal work. Accept that these aren’t year-round permanent positions.
Plan for off-seasons—save money during work periods, return home, or find subsequent seasonal opportunities.
Some workers build careers around multiple seasonal contracts, working different regions and seasons to maximize annual earnings (winter ski season, then spring/summer landscaping, etc.).
Work With Legitimate Recruiters
Reputable recruiters and agencies simplify the $35k–$50k sponsorship process.
Established agencies handle visa logistics, connect you with verified employers, and manage compliance.
Check recruiter credentials, read reviews from past workers, and verify they’re not charging illegal fees.
Your home country may have well-known agencies that regularly place workers in U.S. seasonal jobs—research which ones have good reputations.
Prepare Required Documents
Visa applications require specific documentation ready in advance.
Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity.
Educational certificates and transcripts (particularly for TN or J-1 professional categories).
Work history documentation and reference letters.
Any professional licenses or certifications relevant to your position.
Medical examination results if required for your visa category.
Police clearance certificates from countries where you’ve lived.
Having organized documentation accelerates processing once you secure a position offering $35,000–$50,000 sponsorship.
Understand the Full Compensation Package
$35,000–$50,000 salary looks different when housing, meals, or transportation are included.
H-2A agricultural positions include free housing, transportation to the U.S., and meals or meal allowances—major benefits that stretch your cash earnings.
Some H-2B hospitality positions include employee housing at resorts or reduced-rent accommodations.
J-1 au pair programs include free room and board with host families, meaning your weekly stipend is largely discretionary income.
Calculate total compensation including non-cash benefits when evaluating $35k–$50k opportunities.
Build Toward Higher-Paying Opportunities
Use $35,000–$50,000 positions strategically as stepping stones.
J-1 internships and trainee programs provide U.S. work experience that strengthens future applications for higher-paying H-1B positions.
OPT periods at $35,000–$50,000 entry salaries let you prove value to employers who may sponsor H-1B at higher salaries once you demonstrate capabilities.
Seasonal H-2B work won’t lead to permanent immigration typically, but it provides income, U.S. experience, and networking opportunities.
TN positions at $35k–$50k can grow into higher-paying roles as you gain experience and prove value to employers.
Geographic Hotspots for $35k–$50k Sponsorship
Certain regions consistently offer more $35,000–$50,000 visa sponsorship opportunities than others.
California
Why California for $35k–$50k visas:
Massive agricultural industry using tens of thousands of H-2A workers annually.
High state-mandated minimum wages mean seasonal agricultural work can yield $40,000–$50,000 in full seasons.
Wine country, fruit orchards, vegetable farms, and nurseries provide year-round opportunities.
Some hospitality and landscaping H-2B in resort areas (Lake Tahoe, coastal regions).
Typical positions: Farm workers, nursery workers, harvest laborers, packing house staff.
Cost of living note: California is expensive, but agricultural housing is often provided, and rural areas are more affordable than coastal cities.
Florida
Why Florida for $35k–$50k visas:
Extensive use of H-2A for citrus, vegetables, and nursery operations.
Huge tourism and hospitality industry sponsoring H-2B for beach resorts, theme parks, and hotels.
Seafood processing in Gulf Coast regions.
Year-round warm weather creates extended seasonal employment.
Typical positions: Agricultural workers, resort housekeepers, landscapers, hospitality staff.
Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina
Why the Southeast for $35k–$50k visas:
Large-scale farming (tobacco, sweet potatoes, vegetables) using H-2A extensively.
Growing H-2B landscaping and construction industries.
Poultry processing in Georgia and North Carolina.
Seasonal forestry and timber work.
Lower costs of living mean $35,000–$50,000 supports better lifestyles than expensive states.
Typical positions: Farm workers, landscaping crews, food processing, construction laborers.
Colorado, Utah, Montana, Wyoming (Mountain West)
Why mountain states for $35k–$50k visas:
Major ski resort industry hiring thousands of H-2B and J-1 workers for winter seasons.
Summer tourism at national parks and mountain resorts.
Agricultural work in valleys and plains regions (Colorado, Montana).
Combination of winter and summer seasonal work possible.
Typical positions: Ski resort workers, summer resort staff, national park concessions, ranch workers.
Earnings note: Ski season positions typically yield $15,000–$25,000 for 4-5 month seasons, requiring supplementation with summer work to reach $35,000–$50,000 annually.
Alaska
Why Alaska for $35k–$50k visas:
Seafood processing industry is one of the largest H-2B employers.
Processing seasons (May-October) offer intensive work with overtime pushing earnings toward $35,000–$45,000 for the season.
Summer tourism industry in national parks and cruise ship ports.
Remote location means employer-provided housing is common.
Typical positions: Seafood processors, cannery workers, tourist service workers.
Maryland, Virginia, Delaware (Mid-Atlantic)
Why Mid-Atlantic for $35k–$50k visas:
Crab and oyster processing on Chesapeake Bay using H-2B extensively.
Major landscaping industry serving Washington D.C. suburbs and metropolitan areas.
Agricultural work in Eastern Shore and rural regions.
Construction and groundskeeping for numerous commercial properties.
Typical positions: Seafood processors, landscapers, groundskeepers, construction workers.
Washington State
Why Washington for $35k–$50k visas:
Apple orchards, berry farms, and hop fields use thousands of H-2A workers.
High state minimum wage ($16.28 in 2024) means agricultural work yields better earnings—full seasons can reach $45,000–$50,000.
Some hospitality work in Seattle suburbs and mountain resort areas.
Typical positions: Orchard workers, berry pickers, packing house staff.
Requirements and Documentation for $35k–$50k Visas
Different visa categories have different requirements, but common elements apply across $35,000–$50,000 sponsorship programs.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
For H-2A and H-2B seasonal work:
Be a citizen of a country designated as eligible for H-2 programs (list maintained by DHS—includes most Latin American, Caribbean, and some Eastern European and Asian countries).
Have a valid job offer from a U.S. employer with approved labor certification.
Demonstrate intent to return to home country after temporary work period ends.
Pass security and background checks.
No specific educational requirements for most positions.
For J-1 exchange programs:
Meet program-specific requirements (varies by category—intern, trainee, au pair, etc.).
English language proficiency sufficient for program participation.
Educational qualifications or work experience matching program requirements.
Sponsorship from designated J-1 sponsor organization.
For TN professional positions:
Canadian or Mexican citizenship.
Job offer in one of the TN-eligible professional occupations.
Appropriate educational credentials or professional qualifications for the occupation.
Documentation Checklist
Standard documents for $35k–$50k visa applications:
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay.
Job offer or contract: Letter from U.S. employer detailing position, duties, salary ($35,000–$50,000), and duration.
Labor certification: For H-2 visas, the approved labor certification showing Department of Labor approval.
Educational credentials: Diplomas, degrees, or certificates if required for your specific position or visa category.
Work history: Resume or CV, letters from previous employers, evidence of relevant experience.
Financial documentation: Proof of ability to support yourself and that you have ties to your home country.
Medical examination: Some visas require medical exams by approved physicians.
Police certificates: Background clearance from your home country and any country where you’ve lived.
Photos: Passport-style photos meeting U.S. visa requirements.
DS-160 or DS-2019: Completed visa application forms (varies by visa type).
Interview Preparation
Most visa applicants attend consular interviews at U.S. embassies or consulates.
Common interview questions for $35k–$50k seasonal/temporary visas:
Why do you want to work in the United States?
What will you do after your work period ends?
What ties do you have to your home country ensuring you’ll return?
What is your educational and work background?
How much will you earn in this position?
Interview tips:
Be honest and straightforward—visa officers can spot inconsistency immediately.
Emphasize temporary nature of work and your intention to return home.
Bring supporting documents (job offer, evidence of home country ties, financial records).
Dress professionally and arrive prepared.
Timeline Expectations for $35k–$50k Sponsorship
Understand how long the process typically takes for different $35,000–$50,000 visa categories.
H-2A Timeline
Total timeline: 2-4 months from employer decision to arrival
Employer petitions Department of Labor for labor certification (30-60 days).
DOL reviews and approves labor certification.
Employer files H-2A petition with USCIS (2-4 weeks processing).
Worker applies for H-2A visa at U.S. consulate (1-3 weeks for interview and approval).
Travel to U.S. and begin work.
Planning note: Agricultural employers typically recruit several months before harvest or planting seasons, so position yourself 4-6 months ahead of target work dates.
H-2B Timeline
Total timeline: 3-5 months from employer decision to arrival
Employer files temporary labor certification with DOL (average 4-6 weeks, longer during peak periods).
DOL approves labor certification.
Employer files H-2B petition with USCIS (2-3 months processing, sometimes longer during cap periods).
Worker applies for H-2B visa at consulate (2-4 weeks).
Travel to U.S. and start work.
Important: H-2B has an annual cap (66,000), so timing matters. Employers compete for cap slots, creating urgency at the October 1 and April 1 half-year marks.
J-1 Timeline
Total timeline: 2-4 months from application to arrival
Apply to J-1 sponsor organization (1-3 weeks for review and acceptance).
Sponsor organization matches you with host employer/family and issues DS-2019 form.
Pay SEVIS fee and schedule visa interview (1-2 weeks).
Attend consular interview and receive visa (1-3 weeks).
Travel to U.S. and begin program.
Variation: Popular J-1 programs like summer work travel or au pair have busy application seasons; apply early for best placement options.
TN Timeline
Total timeline: Immediate to 2 weeks
For Canadians: Can apply for TN status directly at U.S. border entry points with job offer letter and supporting documents. Approval often happens the same day.
For Mexicans: Apply at U.S. consulate; processing typically takes 1-2 weeks from application to visa issuance.
TN is by far the fastest work authorization for eligible candidates pursuing $35,000–$50,000 positions.
Cost Realities: Living on $35k–$50k
Be realistic about financial expectations for $35,000–$50,000 earnings in the United States.
Where $35k–$50k Works
Locations where $35,000–$50,000 provides basic comfortable living:
Rural areas throughout the Midwest, South, and Mountain West.
Small cities in states like Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, Oklahoma, Kentucky, Montana, Wyoming, Idaho.
Agricultural regions where housing is provided by employers.
Seasonal resort areas during work periods (though off-season planning is necessary).
In these locations, $35k–$50k covers:
Basic housing ($600-$1,000/month rent for modest apartments).
Food and groceries ($300-$500/month).
Transportation (used car payment and gas, or public transit where available).
Utilities and phone.
Some discretionary spending and modest savings.
Where $35k–$50k Is Challenging
Locations where $35,000–$50,000 creates financial stress:
Major metros like New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Boston, Seattle, Washington D.C.
Expensive tourist destinations during peak seasons (though these often provide employee housing).
Anywhere without employer-provided housing where rent alone could consume half your income.
In expensive cities, $35k–$50k requires:
Shared housing or roommates to manage rent costs.
Careful budgeting and limited discretionary spending.
Reliance on public transportation rather than car ownership.
Minimal savings capacity.
Strategy: If pursuing $35,000–$50,000 positions, target lower-cost regions or situations with employer-provided housing to maximize financial viability.
Budgeting for $35k–$50k Income
Sample monthly budget on $40,000 annual income (roughly $2,700 take-home after taxes):
Housing: $800 (with roommates or rural area)
Food: $400
Transportation: $300 (car payment, gas, insurance)
Utilities and phone: $150
Healthcare: $200 (if not employer-provided)
Discretionary: $400
Savings: $450
This requires discipline and living in lower-cost areas, but it’s manageable. If housing is provided by your employer, your savings and discretionary income increase significantly.
Common Challenges and Solutions
International workers pursuing $35,000–$50,000 sponsorship face specific obstacles.
Challenge: Limited Visa Options at This Salary
Solution: Focus exclusively on visa categories designed for your target work type—H-2A/H-2B for seasonal roles, J-1 for exchange/training, TN for eligible professionals. Don’t waste energy on H-1B unless you’re in an entry-level position in a low-cost area where prevailing wages align with $35k–$50k.
Challenge: Recruitment Scams
Solution: Research agencies thoroughly. Legitimate U.S. employers and recruiters don’t charge excessive upfront fees (U.S. law prohibits charging H-2A workers recruitment fees and limits H-2B fees). Verify agency credentials, read reviews, and report suspicious operations to authorities. Work through established sponsor organizations for J-1 programs.
Challenge: Financial Viability
Solution: Target positions with housing included, choose lower-cost regions, plan budgets carefully, and consider $35k–$50k work as stepping stone to higher earnings rather than long-term income level. Save aggressively during work seasons if employment is seasonal.
Challenge: Temporary Status Without Path to Immigration
Solution: Understand that H-2 visas are explicitly temporary with no direct path to green cards. If long-term U.S. immigration is your goal, use seasonal work to gain experience, build relationships, and potentially transition to other visa categories. J-1 and TN can lead to H-1B and eventually green cards if you advance into higher-paying professional roles.
Challenge: Geographic Isolation
Solution: Seasonal agricultural and resort work often places you in remote areas. Build community with fellow international workers, stay connected with home through technology, and view the experience as temporary and goal-focused. Many workers appreciate the immersive nature and ability to save money when entertainment options are limited.
Realistic Expectations for $35k–$50k Sponsorship
Set appropriate expectations for what $35,000–$50,000 visa sponsorship actually offers.
What You Can Expect
Legitimate work authorization: Legal permission to work in the U.S. for specific periods.
Basic income: Enough to cover living expenses in lower-cost areas, particularly when housing is provided.
U.S. work experience: Valuable on resumes and for understanding American workplace culture.
Cultural exchange: Immersion in U.S. communities and English language practice.
Potential savings: Ability to send remittances home or save for future goals if you budget carefully.
Temporary opportunity: Clear understanding that most $35k–$50k sponsorship is seasonal or time-limited.
What You Shouldn’t Expect
Path to permanent residency: Most visa categories at this salary level (H-2, J-1) don’t lead directly to green cards.
Luxury lifestyle: $35,000–$50,000 provides basic comfortable living, not affluence.
Year-round employment: Most opportunities are seasonal; plan for off-periods.
Career advancement: Seasonal work typically doesn’t offer professional growth trajectories.
Family sponsorship: H-2 visas generally don’t include dependent visas; you’ll be working in the U.S. while family stays home.
Frequently Asked Questions About $35k–$50k Visa Sponsorship
1. Can I really find legitimate visa sponsorship for jobs paying only $35,000–$50,000?
Yes, legitimate $35,000–$50,000 visa sponsorship exists, but through specific visa categories and industries rather than traditional professional work visas. H-2A agricultural visas and H-2B seasonal non-agricultural visas are specifically designed for temporary workers in positions that commonly pay $35,000–$50,000 or less annually. These programs bring hundreds of thousands of international workers to the U.S. each year for farm work, hospitality, landscaping, food processing, and construction.
J-1 exchange visitor programs provide work authorization for cultural exchange positions like au pairs, camp counselors, interns, and trainees where compensation often falls in the $35,000–$50,000 range (or lower when considering stipends plus room and board). Canadian and Mexican professionals can use TN visas for entry-level positions in eligible occupations where starting salaries in lower-cost states begin at $35k–$50k.
What’s generally not realistic is H-1B sponsorship at $35,000–$50,000 because prevailing wage requirements for specialty occupations typically exceed this range in most locations. The key is matching your job search to the visa category designed for your target work type rather than pursuing visa categories built for higher-wage professional positions.
2. Is $35,000–$50,000 enough to live on in the United States?
Whether $35,000–$50,000 provides adequate living depends entirely on location and whether housing is included in your compensation package. In rural areas, smaller cities, and states with lower costs of living (much of the South, Midwest, Mountain West), annual income of $35k–$50k can cover basic expenses including modest housing, food, transportation, and utilities with some left for savings and discretionary spending.
In expensive metros like New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, or Boston, $35,000–$50,000 creates significant financial challenges. Rent alone could consume $2,000+ monthly, leaving little for other expenses on a $35k salary.
Many $35,000–$50,000 visa sponsorship positions include critical benefits that dramatically improve financial viability: H-2A agricultural jobs must provide free housing, meals or meal allowances, and transportation to the U.S.; many H-2B resort or seasonal positions include employee housing; J-1 au pairs receive free room and board with host families. When housing and sometimes meals are provided, your cash salary becomes largely discretionary, making $35k–$50k much more livable.
The bottom line: $35,000–$50,000 supports basic comfortable living in lower-cost areas, especially when employer-provided housing is included, but requires careful budgeting and won’t provide luxury lifestyles or substantial savings in expensive cities.
3. What’s the difference between H-2A and H-2B visas for $35,000–$50,000 work?
H-2A and H-2B are both temporary worker visas commonly used for positions paying $35,000–$50,000, but they serve different industries with different rules.
H-2A is exclusively for agricultural work—farm labor, crop harvesting, nursery work, livestock care, and similar agricultural occupations. H-2A has no annual cap on visa numbers, meaning if an employer gets Department of Labor approval, workers can get visas. Employers must provide free housing, transportation to the U.S., and meals or meal allowances. Workers typically earn prevailing piece rates or hourly wages set by federal and state Adverse Effect Wage Rates, commonly yielding $28,000–$45,000 for typical seasonal contracts. H-2A is used most heavily in states like California, Florida, Georgia, Washington, and North Carolina.
H-2B covers non-agricultural temporary or seasonal work—hospitality, landscaping, construction, seafood processing, resort operations, and similar non-farm jobs. H-2B has an annual cap of 66,000 visas (33,000 per half-year, sometimes supplemented by Congress), creating more competition. Employers must pay prevailing wages for the occupation and location but aren’t required to provide housing (though many do). Earnings vary widely but often fall in the $25,000–$50,000 range for seasonal contracts. H-2B is common in tourism, landscaping, food processing, and seasonal construction.
Both require that U.S. workers aren’t available for the positions, both are temporary (typically 6-10 months, extendable), and neither provides direct paths to permanent residency. Choose based on your work preferences—agricultural vs. non-agricultural seasonal employment.
4. Can I bring my family with me on a $35,000–$50,000 visa sponsorship?
Generally, no—most visa categories that cover $35,000–$50,000 work don’t include dependent visas for spouses and children. H-2A and H-2B temporary worker visas don’t have dependent visa classifications, meaning your family stays in your home country while you work in the U.S. for your seasonal contract period. This is one of the trade-offs of seasonal work programs at this salary level.
J-1 exchange visitor programs vary by category. Most J-1 workers (interns, trainees, camp counselors) work alone without family. Some J-1 categories allow J-2 dependent visas for spouses and children, but at $35,000–$50,000 compensation levels, supporting a family in the U.S. would be financially challenging.
TN visa holders can have TD dependent visas for spouses and children, who can live in the U.S. but cannot work (though spouses can study). If you’re Canadian or Mexican using TN status for a $35,000–$50,000 position, family accompaniment is possible, though you’d need to carefully assess whether the salary supports everyone adequately.
For most international workers pursuing $35k–$50k visa sponsorship, the realistic expectation is working in the U.S. temporarily while family remains home, using earnings to support them through remittances. This temporary separation is common for seasonal workers worldwide.
5. Is there any way to transition from H-2 seasonal work to permanent U.S. residency?
H-2A and H-2B visas are explicitly temporary with no direct pathway to green cards or permanent residency. They’re designed for seasonal or temporary workers who return to their home countries after work periods end. You can return for multiple seasons (many workers do year after year), but the visa category itself doesn’t lead to immigration.
That said, indirect pathways sometimes emerge: If you work seasonally for an employer and prove exceptionally valuable, they might eventually sponsor you for a different visa category if you qualify. For example, if you start as an H-2B landscaper but develop specialized skills and the company has a permanent position that qualifies as a specialty occupation paying significantly more than $35k–$50k, they might sponsor H-1B, which can lead to green cards. This is uncommon but not impossible.
Some workers use H-2 seasonal work to establish U.S. connections, earn money, and gain experience while pursuing other immigration pathways (family sponsorship, diversity visa lottery, etc.). The seasonal work itself doesn’t provide immigration benefits, but it can be part of a broader strategy.
For workers whose ultimate goal is U.S. permanent residency, J-1 programs (which can lead to relationships with employers who might sponsor H-1B) or TN status (which can also transition to H-1B and green cards) offer better long-term prospects than H-2 seasonal programs, though earnings may start similarly in the $35,000–$50,000 range.
6. How do I avoid scams when looking for $35,000–$50,000 visa sponsorship?
Recruitment scams targeting people seeking U.S. work are unfortunately common, particularly for seasonal and entry-level positions. Protect yourself with these strategies:
Red flags indicating potential scams: Requests for large upfront payments (thousands of dollars) before any work begins; promises of guaranteed visa approval (no one can guarantee this); offers that seem too good to be true (very high salaries for unskilled work, promises of immediate permanent residency); poor English on official documents; pressure to send money quickly; requests to send money to individuals rather than established companies.
How to verify legitimate opportunities: Research the recruiting agency or employer thoroughly—look for established websites, verifiable addresses, reviews from past workers; verify H-2 employers through Department of Labor disclosure data showing their past visa petitions; work with J-1 sponsor organizations that are officially designated by the U.S. State Department (list available on State Department website); understand that legitimate H-2A employers cannot charge workers recruitment fees, and H-2B fees are strictly limited; ask for contracts in writing detailing wages, housing, duties, and terms before paying anything; consult your country’s U.S. embassy or consulate if you’re unsure about an opportunity’s legitimacy.
Reasonable costs: J-1 program fees ($1,000–$3,000 to sponsor organizations) are normal. Visa application fees paid directly to U.S. government are legitimate. Small document processing or translation fees are reasonable. But large fees paid to recruiters or “guarantees” of visa approval should trigger suspicion.
When in doubt, research extensively, ask for references from past workers, and trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, investigate further before proceeding.
Finding $35,000–$50,000 jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship is absolutely possible but requires targeting the right visa categories, industries, and geographic regions for this salary level. Seasonal work programs (H-2A agriculture and H-2B non-agricultural), cultural exchange opportunities (J-1), entry-level TN positions for Canadians and Mexicans, and strategic use of OPT for international students provide legitimate pathways to U.S. employment at $35k–$50k compensation. Success requires realistic expectations—most opportunities are temporary or seasonal rather than permanent immigration pathways, earnings support basic living especially in lower-cost areas or when housing is provided, and the experience serves as income generation and U.S. exposure rather than long-term career building. By understanding which visa categories actually work for $35,000–$50,000 jobs, researching legitimate employers and recruiters, preparing proper documentation, and maintaining geographic flexibility, international workers can successfully access American employment opportunities in this salary range.