As a reminder, on March 24, 2025, the Federal Labor Certification Program (FLCP) announced updates to the allowable charges for meals and travel subsistence reimbursement for H-2A temporary agricultural workers, including provisions for lodging. These updates are effective immediately and apply to all H-2A occupations except herding or livestock production on the range, so employers are advised to review their practices to ensure compliance with these new rates.

• Meal Charges:
  • Employers must provide three meals daily or free and convenient cooking facilities.
  • The allowable meal charge is set at $16.28 per day.
  • Higher charges require approval from the OFLC Certifying Officer.

• Travel Subsistence Reimbursement:
  • Employers must reimburse reasonable travel-related subsistence costs, including meals, lodging, visa-related expenses, and transportation.
  • Minimum daily reimbursement is $16.28.
  • Maximum daily reimbursement with receipts is $68.00.
  • For partial travel days, reimbursement with receipts is $51.00 per day.

For additional information:

• DOL – Annual Updates to Allowable Monetary Charges Employers Of H-2A Workers, In Occupations Other Than Herding Or Production Of Livestock On the Range
• DOL Press Release
• DOL – 20 CFR 655.173(b)

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