The United States has one of the largest agricultural industries in the world, and many farms rely on foreign workers to keep their operations running smoothly.
In Kaplan, Louisiana, general farmworker roles are among the most in-demand positions, and the government provides legal work pathways through the H-2A and H-2B visa programs. These visas make it possible for immigrants to work legally in the U.S. while receiving fair wages and benefits.
Employers in Kaplan recognize the need for skilled, hardworking individuals who are willing to handle the responsibilities of farming, including planting, harvesting, equipment operation, and livestock management.
What makes Kaplan particularly attractive for immigrants is its thriving agricultural economy. Louisiana’s fertile lands support crops such as sugarcane, rice, and soybeans, while livestock farms and poultry operations add to the demand for labor.
General farmworkers in Kaplan are not only essential to the agricultural industry but are also eligible for visa sponsorship, meaning that employers are willing to handle immigration paperwork and legal procedures to ensure workers can arrive and begin their jobs without complications.
The H-2A visa is specifically designed for temporary agricultural workers, while the H-2B visa covers non-agricultural seasonal jobs. Both provide opportunities for immigrants to secure steady employment in the U.S.
Kaplan has become a hub for such opportunities because of its concentration of farms requiring labor year-round. Unlike many other locations where agricultural work is seasonal, Kaplan offers steady employment due to its diverse farming operations.
One of the major benefits for foreigners applying for these roles is the compensation structure. Many general farmworker jobs in Kaplan pay competitive wages that range from $13 to $18 per hour depending on the type of farm, level of experience, and complexity of tasks.
On an annual basis, this can amount to anywhere between $27,000 and $36,000 for entry-level workers, with more experienced farmhands earning up to $40,000. Some employers also provide free housing, transportation, and even meals, significantly reducing living expenses.
The demand for immigrant labor is expected to grow in 2025 and beyond. According to data from the U.S. Department of Labor, more than 300,000 H-2A positions were certified in 2023 alone, with projections showing a continued rise.
Kaplan’s farms have already begun expanding their recruitment of international workers, meaning that this is one of the best times for foreign applicants to secure employment.
With legal sponsorship, fair salaries, and the opportunity to gain valuable U.S. work experience, general farmworker roles in Kaplan, LA, present a strong career path for immigrants seeking stable jobs.
Entry-level Skills and Experience Required
Farm work in Kaplan is known for being labor-intensive, but many employers hire workers who do not have formal education or prior U.S. work experience. Instead, they focus on practical abilities and a willingness to learn quickly.
Employers provide on-the-job training, making these roles suitable for entry-level workers from different countries. Still, there are certain skills and attributes that can make applicants more competitive and attractive to employers.
Physical Stamina and Strength
Farm work requires consistent physical effort, including lifting heavy equipment, bending, and working outdoors in different weather conditions. Workers with good stamina and the ability to handle long shifts will find it easier to adapt to the demands of the role.
Basic Farming Knowledge
Although not mandatory, having prior exposure to farming tasks such as planting, harvesting, irrigation, or handling livestock gives candidates an advantage. Employers value workers who can adapt to farm routines without needing constant supervision.
Teamwork and Communication
Farm operations in Kaplan rely on group efforts. Workers must collaborate effectively with supervisors and fellow workers to complete large-scale farming tasks on time. Employers value applicants who can follow instructions and communicate clearly in English or through interpreters provided on site.
Adaptability and Flexibility
Since farming depends on weather conditions and seasonal cycles, schedules often change. Workers who can adjust to new routines or unexpected challenges stand out as reliable hires.
Work Eligibility and Visa Readiness
Most importantly, applicants must be ready to participate in the H-2A or H-2B visa process. Employers in Kaplan prefer workers who can quickly provide necessary documents such as passports, identification, and previous work references, which speed up the visa sponsorship process.
In terms of salaries for entry-level applicants, those without prior farming experience typically earn around $13 per hour, which is equal to about $520 per week for a standard 40-hour schedule.
Workers with experience handling machinery, livestock, or specialized farming tasks may start at $15 per hour, equaling $600 weekly and $2,400 monthly. These figures make general farmwork in Kaplan a realistic path for immigrants to save money and support families back home while gaining U.S. work experience.
Regions with the Highest Payment Structures
While Kaplan, LA, provides strong job opportunities for immigrant farmworkers, it is important to understand how salaries vary across regions in the United States. Payment structures in agriculture are influenced by crop types, regional labor demand, and state-level wage policies.
Kaplan is among the regions offering competitive wages because of Louisiana’s diversified farming, but comparing it to other areas helps highlight its advantages.
California
California leads the U.S. in agricultural production, and farmworkers there earn some of the highest wages. The average hourly rate is about $17 to $20 per hour, translating into $35,000 to $42,000 annually. However, living expenses in California are significantly higher compared to Kaplan, which reduces net savings for workers.
Texas
Texas farms rely heavily on immigrant workers for cotton, corn, and cattle operations. Farmworkers in Texas typically earn between $12 and $15 per hour, averaging $25,000 to $30,000 per year. While wages may be slightly lower than Kaplan, Texas farms often offer long-term contracts that provide job security.
Kaplan, Louisiana
In Kaplan, wages range from $13 to $18 per hour depending on skills and responsibilities. This puts Kaplan in a competitive position compared to other Southern states, with the added advantage of employers often covering accommodation and transport costs.
These benefits make Kaplan an ideal location for immigrants seeking both fair pay and reduced living expenses.
Florida
Florida’s farming industry focuses on fruits, vegetables, and citrus crops. Workers generally earn between $12 and $14 per hour. While the pay is slightly lower than Kaplan, seasonal demand is high, meaning more opportunities for foreign workers under the H-2A visa.
By comparison, Kaplan’s payment structure stands out for balancing competitive wages with lower living costs and employer benefits. Workers in Kaplan can realistically save more from their earnings compared to those in high-cost states.
For example, a worker in California earning $40,000 annually might spend nearly $20,000 on housing, while a worker in Kaplan earning $35,000 could save nearly half due to free accommodation.
Salary Expectations for General Farmworkers
Salary expectations for general farmworkers in Kaplan, Louisiana, depend on multiple factors including skill level, type of farm, visa status, and years of experience.
Employers hiring under the H-2A visa are required by law to pay at least the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR), which ensures fair compensation for foreign workers. In Louisiana, the AEWR for 2025 is expected to be around $13.67 per hour, meaning no worker under an H-2A visa can legally earn less than this.
Entry-level farmworkers in Kaplan typically start at $13.50 to $14 per hour, which equates to approximately $2,160 per month for full-time schedules. Over the course of a year, this amounts to about $26,000.
Experienced workers handling machinery or managing livestock earn between $15 and $18 per hour, or $31,000 to $37,000 annually. Supervisory roles, though less common, can earn up to $20 per hour, surpassing $40,000 yearly.
Another factor influencing salaries is the type of farm. Workers in poultry or livestock farms often receive higher hourly pay compared to those working in crop fields, due to the additional responsibilities of animal care.
Seasonal harvests such as sugarcane also offer temporary wage increases because of the labor intensity required during peak months. Employers in Kaplan also frequently offer free housing, which saves workers an estimated $600 to $800 monthly.
Combined with free transportation, the overall value of the job package is much higher than just the hourly wage. For example, a worker earning $2,200 per month with free housing and meals could be saving nearly $3,000 in total value each month.
Salary growth is possible for workers who stay with the same employer across multiple visa cycles. Many farmworkers who return to Kaplan year after year receive loyalty pay increases, making long-term employment in Louisiana an attractive option.
Companies Hiring General Farmworkers in Kaplan, LA
Kaplan, Louisiana, has a strong reputation for agricultural productivity, and this has created steady demand for foreign workers under the H-2A visa program. Several farming companies and agricultural cooperatives consistently hire immigrants to fill essential general farmworker roles.
These companies often specialize in sugarcane, rice, soybeans, poultry, and livestock operations, which are dominant in the Kaplan area. Since these farms rely heavily on seasonal and year-round labor, they actively participate in visa sponsorship to attract skilled and motivated international workers.
One of the leading employers in Kaplan is sugarcane farms, which form the backbone of Louisiana’s agricultural economy. Companies in this sector hire thousands of farmworkers each year, with many offering hourly rates between $13.50 and $16.
During harvest season, the need for workers doubles, and employers increase wages by $1 to $2 per hour to attract reliable laborers. Many of these farms also provide shared housing and transportation, reducing living costs for immigrant workers.
Poultry and livestock farms are another major source of employment. Kaplan has a concentration of poultry-processing facilities and cattle farms that hire general farmworkers for feeding, cleaning, and animal care duties.
Salaries for these positions range from $14 to $17 per hour, depending on responsibilities. These companies typically prefer workers with some prior farming experience, but they also provide training for those who are new to animal care.
Rice and soybean farms in Kaplan also recruit international workers under the H-2A program. These farms focus on planting, irrigation, and harvesting tasks that require consistent labor.
Seasonal workers may be employed for periods ranging from 6 to 10 months, depending on crop cycles. Wages for rice and soybean farmworkers average $14.50 per hour, equating to more than $28,000 annually for full-season employment.
Some of the most reputable employers in Kaplan also collaborate with recruitment agencies that specialize in sourcing foreign talent.
These agencies ensure that applicants meet visa requirements and are matched with farms that fit their skills. As a result, foreign applicants can trust that they will be placed in secure, legal, and well-paying positions.
The companies hiring general farmworkers in Kaplan often return to the same labor pools each year, showing loyalty to workers who have proven their reliability. Many immigrants who start with entry-level jobs are invited back for subsequent seasons with wage increases and better roles.
For example, a worker who begins at $13.50 per hour may return the next year at $15.50 per hour with added responsibilities. This system rewards consistency and builds long-term trust between employers and employees.
Visa Types and Options for General Farmworkers
Foreigners seeking general farmworker roles in Kaplan, LA, primarily rely on two U.S. visa programs: the H-2A and H-2B visas. Both options allow immigrants to work legally in the United States, but they are designed for different types of labor. Understanding the difference between these two visas is crucial for workers planning to apply.
H-2A Visa for Agricultural Workers
The H-2A visa is the most common pathway for farmworkers in Kaplan. It is specifically for temporary or seasonal agricultural jobs, which include planting, cultivating, and harvesting crops, as well as tending to livestock and poultry.
The H-2A visa allows employers to hire foreign nationals when there are not enough local workers available.
Workers on this visa receive protections such as a guaranteed minimum wage, free housing, and transportation to and from worksites. The average hourly rate under H-2A contracts in Louisiana is expected to be $13.67 in 2025.
H-2B Visa for Non-Agricultural Seasonal Work
The H-2B visa covers non-agricultural seasonal jobs, such as landscaping, seafood processing, and construction. Although it is less common for general farmworker roles, some agricultural-related companies in Kaplan use the H-2B program.
This is when tasks fall outside of traditional farming. Wages under H-2B visas vary depending on the employer but generally range from $14 to $18 per hour.
Seasonal Duration and Extensions
Both visas are temporary, but workers may stay in the U.S. for several months at a time, depending on the employer’s needs. In most cases, H-2A visas last up to 10 months, while H-2B visas can last up to one year.
Workers may also extend their stay for up to three years with continuous employment. After this period, a mandatory three-month break outside the U.S. is required before reapplying.
Visa Benefits for Workers in Kaplan
The major advantage of visa sponsorship in Kaplan is that employers handle all application paperwork and cover processing fees. Workers only need to provide personal documents such as passports and identification.
Additionally, visa holders receive legal protections, which ensure they are not exploited and are paid fairly. In Kaplan, many employers also cover consular fees and travel expenses, making the process even more accessible for immigrants.
Where to Find General Farmworker Roles Opportunities
Finding legitimate farmworker jobs in Kaplan, LA, requires careful research, as not all listings are genuine. The most reliable sources are government-backed platforms and certified recruiters.
The U.S. Department of Labor publishes official job postings under the H-2A program, which ensures that positions meet legal requirements and pay the mandated wage. Prospective applicants can search the seasonaljobs.dol.gov website to view current farmworker openings across Louisiana, including Kaplan.
Recruitment agencies also play a vital role in connecting foreign workers with Kaplan-based employers. These agencies work directly with farms to fill labor gaps, and they guide applicants through the visa process. Candidates applying through licensed recruiters have a higher chance of securing legal and well-paid positions.
Another reliable method is networking with current or past H-2A visa workers in Kaplan. Many immigrants return to the same farms year after year, and referrals often give new applicants a better chance of being hired.
Employers tend to trust workers recommended by returning employees, and this system benefits both parties. For those already in the U.S. under other visa programs, agricultural job boards and state employment agencies can provide leads on available roles in Kaplan.
However, these applicants must ensure their visa status allows them to switch into H-2A or H-2B programs before starting work.
Applicants should be cautious of fraudulent offers that promise jobs without proper visa sponsorship. Any employer in Kaplan offering H-2A jobs must provide written contracts, clear wage details, and housing arrangements.
If an offer lacks these details, it may not be legitimate. Using trusted platforms and official recruitment channels is the best way to avoid scams and ensure safe, legal employment.
How to Apply for General Farmworker Roles as an Immigrant in Kaplan, LA
Applying for a general farmworker role in Kaplan under the H-2A visa program involves several steps, all of which are straightforward when handled properly. Since most employers in Kaplan handle visa sponsorship, the process is less complicated for workers. However, being prepared and following each stage carefully increases the chances of success.
Step 1: Job Application
Workers must first secure a job offer from a certified employer in Kaplan. This can be done through official job boards, recruitment agencies, or direct applications to farms. Employers will evaluate applicants based on their willingness to work, physical ability, and availability.
Step 2: Employer Petition
Once selected, the employer files a petition with the U.S. Department of Labor and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to sponsor the worker under the H-2A visa. This includes proving that no local workers are available to fill the position.
Step 3: Visa Application at U.S. Embassy
After the petition is approved, workers must apply for the H-2A visa at their local U.S. embassy or consulate. This step requires providing documents such as a passport, proof of employment, and a completed DS-160 form. Consular officers may conduct interviews to verify eligibility.
Step 4: Travel to Kaplan, LA
When the visa is approved, employers often cover travel expenses from the worker’s home country to Kaplan. Upon arrival, housing and transport to worksites are typically arranged by the employer.
Step 5: Begin Work
Workers then begin their contracted farm duties, which usually range from six to ten months. Employers must ensure that wages are paid weekly or bi-weekly and that workers receive proper housing and working conditions.
In terms of timelines, the application process usually takes between 4 to 8 weeks from job offer to arrival in Kaplan. Applicants who have worked in the U.S. before may experience shorter processing times, as their details are already in the system.
The key to a successful application is starting early. Since Kaplan farms recruit heavily before planting and harvesting seasons, applying several months in advance increases the likelihood of securing a contract. With proper preparation, foreign workers can begin earning competitive wages in Kaplan while benefiting from legal visa sponsorship.