UK work visas for NZ and Aussie sheep shearers granted

Overseas sheep shearers are to be granted work visas to come to the UK for the next shearing season one last time, following a last-minute change of heart by the Home Office.

Farm leaders last month warned that blocking entry for overseas sheep shearers, as previously announced by the Home Office, risked worsening labour shortages in the sector and could jeopardise sheep welfare.

Since 2011, a temporary visa concession has been granted specifically for sheep shearers, which last year saw around 75 arrive from New Zealand and Australia to shear 1.5-2m sheep.

See also: Home Office visa decision sparks shearer shortage fears

This arrangement was due to be terminated after the 2025 season, as the Home Office said sheep shearers do not pass the “skilled worker” test to qualify for a temporary visa.

However, on Tuesday evening (10 March), the Home Office confirmed the concession would be extended for one more year.

“The sector has been supported for 14 years to enable it to train up British workers, reduce reliance on migrant labour, and provide a fully sustained workforce within the UK,” said a spokesman.

“A final extension has been provided to the sector.

“We now expect the sector to complete its transition to using domestic labour.”

It is understood this concession, which extends to 30 June 2026 but will not be renewed for 2027, was made after considering evidence submitted “at a late stage” by Defra.

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The move has been cautiously welcomed by farming industry groups.

Jill Hewitt, chief executive of the National Association of Agricultural Contractors, whose members may employ overseas shearers, said it was better than the Youth Mobility Scheme, which was the other option being touted for the coming season.

“But whereas the visas used to be free, there is now a cost involved of £682 a visa.

“And there are other strings attached, such as biometric checks in Australia and New Zealand, which add to the complexity.”

Phil Stocker, chief executive of the National Sheep Association (NSA), said he appreciated the recognition by migration minister Mike Tapp of the importance of overseas shearers for sheep welfare.

“The UK, and other sheep producing nations, have long relied on a small global community of shearers,” he said.

“The NSA will work with Defra and other industry organisations to identify ways forward that work for our industry.”