Travel costs are a common source of H-2A back pay, usually because the timing or the amount was off. Here is how it works (20 CFR 655.122(h)).

Inbound travel: the 50% point

If you did not pay a worker's travel to your farm in advance, you must reimburse it once the worker completes 50% of the contract period. That includes:

  • Transportation from where the worker was recruited, at least the cost of the most economical reasonable fare.
  • Daily subsistence (meals) for each day of travel.

Example: a 20-week contract reaches the 50% point at the end of week 10. Reimbursement is due by then.

Separate federal minimum wage rules can require some travel and visa costs to be repaid in the first workweek, if they would otherwise cut a worker's pay below minimum wage. Ask us how this applies to your crew.

Daily subsistence amounts

As of April 2026, daily subsistence is at least $16.78 per day, and up to $68.00 per day with receipts (Cornell Agricultural Workforce Development). These amounts change each year, so check the current figures.

Return travel

When a worker completes the contract, or you let them go without cause, you pay their transportation and daily subsistence home. If they go straight to another H-2A employer, that employer generally takes on the cost instead.

You do not owe return travel to a worker who abandons the job or is fired for cause, as long as you notify DOL and DHS within 2 working days. See terminations and abandonment.

Daily transportation

You must provide free transportation between employer-provided housing and the worksite. Vehicles must meet safety standards and be properly insured, and drivers must be licensed. Keep copies of registrations, insurance and driver's licenses.

Records to keep

  • receipts or booking records for each worker's travel
  • each worker's 50% date and when reimbursement was paid
  • the pay statement showing the reimbursement
  • return travel records at the end of the season

Battenkill Ag calculates each worker's 50% date and sends you a reimbursement schedule before it arrives. Talk to us.