Government announces slight reduction in visa numbers for year ahead but NFU ‘hopeful’ it will be sufficient
The number of seasonal worker visas available to fresh produce growers will be reduced from 43,000 in 2025 to 41,000 in 2026, the government has announced.
Farming minister Dame Angela Eagle confirmed the reduction in a recent meeting with NFU president Tom Bradshaw. He described the decision as positive news for horticulture, as well the poultry sector, which was allocated 1,900 visas (100 fewer than in 2025).
The news follows a recent visit with Eagle to soft fruit grower Marion Regan of Hugh Lowe Farms in Kent.
Together with NFU Potatoes Board chair Martin Emmett, Bradshaw emphasised the vital importance of the 2026 seasonal worker scheme visa allocation for growers and farmers.
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.”
