Farmers are using a unique visa program for on-farm help

Labor challenges have been a big hurdle for U.S. producers, and it has led some to explore a unique type of visa program.

“TN visas are part of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, and so they’re designated to nationals of Canada and Mexico who have professional degrees in a set number of professions, including foresters, veterinarians, and a certain number of agricultural professions. From a farmer side, they’re generally used mostly in pork production and dairy production, anyone who has specialized services, and generally doesn’t have access to H-2A because they’re not seasonal,” said Samantha Ayoub.

The Farm Bureau says the program works differently for each country workers come from. They have seen a big increase in applications in recent years, but they end up denying around 20 percent of all applications.

Related Stories
Brooke Rollins meets with Pennsylvania farmers as pressure mounts on the Senate to advance the Farm Bill and additional aid for producers.
Despite tighter supplies, U.S. wheat exports continue trending higher as international buyers seek consistent quality and reliable service.
Higher placements lifted feedlot inventories, but slower marketings point to continued tightness in finished cattle movement.
Early wheat harvest is moving, but rain, drought stress, and disease pressure will determine yield and quality.
University of Wisconsin-Madison’s John Shutske says simple safety habits can help prevent some of agriculture’s most common injuries.
Cattle producers met with lawmakers to discuss the issues continuing to impact ranchers across the country.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Dr. Robert Ellis joins us to discuss economic challenges in agriculture, available resources for farmers, and ways producers can evaluate practices to strengthen their operations.
While there is no guarantee a House vote will happen today, the measure has officially been placed on the congressional calendar.
President Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are expected to discuss commodities, trade and regional stability during meetings in Asia.