41k visas secured for seasonal horticulture workers
3rd November 2025
The NFU has welcomed the news that a number of seasonal worker visas have been allocated; however, it also warned that businesses need clarity on visa allocations through to 2029 in order to plan ahead.
In a recent meeting with NFU president Tom Bradshaw and farming minister Dame Angela Eagle, it was confirmed the number of visas allocated for the 2026 SWS (Seasonal Worker Scheme) had been finalised, with 41,000 visas for horticulture.
NFU said that this is “positive news” for the horticulture and poultry sectors that now have the certainty needed to plan for the year ahead.
The announcement comes after a recent visit with the farming minister Dame Angela Eagle to an NFU member’s soft fruit farm in Kent.
Accompanied by NFU president Tom Bradshaw and NFU horticulture and potatoes board chair Martin Emmett, the minister heard about the vital importance of the 2026 SWS visa allocation for growers and farmers.
Mr Bradshaw said: “We’re pleased that the minister has listened and confirmed the SWS 2026 visa allocation. While there has been a small reduction in numbers, we are hopeful it will still be sufficient for the year ahead.
“Seasonal workers play a vital role in ensuring the nation’s fresh fruit and vegetables reach supermarket shelves, that British plants and flowers feature in celebrations across the country, and that turkeys remain the centrepiece of the Christmas table. Without them, the horticulture and seasonal poultry sectors could not function.
“Certainty is critical for these sectors, which plan in years, not months. Looking ahead, it’s essential that we have clarity on visa allocations through to 2029. The number of SWS visas needs to remain sufficient to allow our members to continue producing food, plants and flowers for the nation.”
From 11th November, horticulture workers will also be able to work in the UK for up to six months within any 10-month period. This change to the rules follows several years of NFU campaigning and is expected to significantly increase the availability of seasonal workers.
READ MORE: More flexibility for workers and growers secured under Seasonal Worker Scheme
Read more fruit news.
