At Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, workers like Gerardo Serrano care for thoroughbred racehorses, often using temporary H-2B visas for seasonal labor. These visas allow workers to stay in the U.S. for up to a year, but many, like Serrano, have successfully transitioned to permanent residency through green cards. This change not only benefits the workers, who can secure a more stable life for their families, but also offers financial incentives, as horse grooms can earn a share of winning horses’ prize money.
Recent regulatory changes have made it easier for H-2B visa holders to apply for green cards without jeopardizing their visa status, leading to increased interest from both workers and employers in the horse-racing industry. Employers are now more willing to invest in the green card process to secure their workforce amid uncertainties surrounding visa availability and immigration policies. This shift is seen as a way to stabilize labor in an industry that relies heavily on specialized skills and personal relationships between trainers and their workers.
Despite the benefits, challenges remain, including the high costs associated with the green card application process and the risk of workers leaving once they obtain permanent residency. Trainers express concerns about the unpredictability of the H-2B visa cap and the potential for increased enforcement of immigration laws. Ultimately, while the pathway to permanent residency offers hope for many, it also presents a gamble for employers who invest in their workers’ futures.
