The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has confirmed the Seasonal Worker visa route for 2025, with a total of 43,000 visas available for horticulture workers.

Defra said the package of measures would “provide certainty” and would help the sector secure the labour and skills needed to bring high quality British produce to market.

It also said the Government is “taking action to keep costs down” and protect egg and poultry farmers from the impact of avian influenza.

Food Security Minister Daniel Zeichner said: “This Government recognises that food security is national security, and this can only be achieved by supporting food and farming businesses.

“Confirming the seasonal worker visa allocation for 2025 gives growers and producers certainty, allowing them to plan ahead and secure the labour they need to grow and thrive.”

2023 Seasonal Worker’s Survey

Defra has reviewed the results of the 2023 Seasonal Worker’s Survey report as part of its commitment to monitoring the welfare of seasonal migrant workers.

Conducted in early 2024, the survey shows that the 91% of respondents reported a positive experience from their time in the UK and 95% expressed a desire to return.

The Government said it is working with industry to “improve these numbers further” through its farm compliance checks. It said it would ensure sponsors are adhering to their duties and undertaking welfare checks on workers, and work with international partners to ensure workers know what work to expect before they arrive and can avoid unnecessary costs and fees.  

It also highlighted that measures announced on egg and poultry labelling will “help farmers to deal with the impact of future avian influenza outbreaks”, with legislation to be laid on 4th November.