Q: Can I help on a farm in Hawaii on a tourist visa?

A: It’s good that you’re being cautious before helping your friend, because immigration laws can be strict about what counts as “work” while visiting the United States. Under a U.S. tourist visa (B-2), you are not allowed to perform any form of labor or services that could be considered work, even if it’s unpaid or just for a friend. U.S. immigration authorities generally define “work” as any activity that provides a service or benefit to someone else, whether or not you are compensated. Even light farm work—like tending plants or helping with maintenance—can be seen as unauthorized employment, since it contributes to the farm’s operations.

That said, if your involvement is purely **social or recreational**, such as visiting the farm, participating in a guided activity, or learning about organic farming without performing ongoing tasks, that’s generally acceptable. The key distinction is whether your actions look like you’re volunteering in a way that replaces labor or benefits a business. Since you mentioned this is a functioning farm, helping—even just a few hours a day—could still raise red flags if immigration authorities were to review your activities.

To stay safe, avoid doing any hands-on work or routine assistance that might appear to be labor. You can still enjoy spending time with your friend, observe the farm, and participate in community events as a visitor. If you want to engage more deeply in farm work, you would need the appropriate visa—such as a temporary work or exchange visitor visa—before entering the U.S. Staying within the limits of your tourist visa ensures you won’t risk violating immigration laws or jeopardizing future travel to the United States.