The US farmers who rely on us as their preferred South African agent have

specific requirements and high standards when it comes to choosing candidates.

Although a degree or diploma in agriculture is not mandatory, sufficient farming

experience is required.

The ideal candidates are those who have enough or adequate experience

operating equipment, particularly John Deere and Case tractors, combines, and

self-propelled sprayers equipped with GPS self-steer systems.

Growing up on a farm or having experience in its day-to-day running is a

prerequisite for these farmers.

These farmers expect to pick you up from the airport, take you to their farming

operation, and allow you to start working with minimal training and supervision as

soon as possible.

Most farmers are involved in every aspect of their business and do a lot of work,

so they cannot train you, even if you are a fast learner and hardworking individual.

Regardless of your skill level, all employees will receive the same hourly rate.

Therefore, the farmer will choose the candidate(s) who offer the best value for their

money.

Please upload a photo of yourself to the application. This photo will be the first impression that employers and the farmer will have of you, so be sure to choose wisely.

The photo should be a clear head and shoulder shot of you, centered on a white background.

Please refrain from uploading photos of activities such as hunting, paintball games, partying, or braais, or photos with groups of friends. Applications with inappropriate photos will not be considered for review by clients.

No, you cannot complete your application in Afrikaans as these forms are

being sent to US farmers, who will then select their employees.

The ideal time to submit your application would be towards the end of the year or early in the new year. If you have not been placed yet, please update your application at the end of the year using the link provided when you submitted your form. This will allow us to send it out as soon as the first requests start coming in.

If you're not able to complete your application in one go, don't worry, you won't lose what you've done so far.

To save your progress, simply scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on the "Save" button.

After that, you can copy a link to your application or email it to you later.

When you access your link, you'll be taken right back to where you left off. However, keep in mind that your incomplete application will expire in 7 days, so make sure to complete it within this timeframe.

Some agencies require a video to support my farming skills, but the application form doesn't have an option for it. Should I email it separately?

We've never received any requests from the farmers we recruit for documents or multimedia resumes. All the necessary information is included in our application form, with corresponding fields to be completed. We have never had an applicant request a police clearance, so it is unnecessary to provide one.

We’ve never had a request from any of the farmers we do recruitment for, for any these documents or multimedia resumes. All the information we require has the appropriate fields to be completed in our application form. We never had a request for an applicant to get a police clearance, so it is not needed with us.

Once you have submitted your application form online, you will receive an email confirming that we have received it, along with a unique application reference number that starts with FRU.

This number is specific to your profile and should be used for any future correspondence regarding your application. So, keep it safe. Rest assured that we will send you an email notification once we receive your application.

After you complete and submit the form, you will receive an email confirmation that will include a LINK to your original application.

You can use this link to add or modify any details.

It's important to save this email and/or the link provided so that you can regain access to your existing application in the future. The confirmation email will have an infographic that shows the layout and includes a link to return to your existing application. It's also recommended that someone close to you, like your spouse, has access to this email, in case they need to edit or amend your resume in the future.

We send out the applications to all the farmers that request workers.

Please note that we will only notify you if you have been selected. All communication will be conducted via email, so please ensure that the email address you provide on the application is your current email address.

We will only use this email address for communication purposes and not any other email address. It is important to mention that, similar to other major recruitment companies and large corporations, we follow the same communication protocol.

YOU WILL ONLY RECEIVE NOTIFICATION WHEN THERE ARE POSITIVE DEVELOPMENTS FOR YOU.

Thank you for reaching out.

If you haven't received a confirmation email after submitting your application, please check your spam/junk folders.

The email should be from info@farmrecruitusa.com.

In case you can't find it in any of these folders, it's possible that you might have entered your email address incorrectly on the form.

Please check and make sure that your email address is correct.

n case you have completed the form incorrectly, for example by filling it in Afrikaans, using an improper photo such as a photo of machinery instead of a head and shoulders photo with a white background, or enhancing your experience, please note that it may not be considered valid.

Please follow the requirements for photos, which should be in ID/Password style. Your photo should be a head-and-shoulder shot with a white background, and the maximum file size should be 250 MB. Also, please ensure that your WhatsApp profile photo is appropriate, as it can be viewed by the employer.

We do not have an upper age limit as long as you are physically fit and capable of performing the necessary tasks. We have placed individuals in their 40s, 50s, and even 60s with farmers in the southern states. Many employers are now setting the minimum age of applicants to be in their mid-twenties.

Most of the inquiries for placements we receive happen mainly between November and February, even up to April of each year. However, some farmers require more workers later in the year during the busy harvest season. We will then have a few late placements and opportunities.

Employers will give workers already with them the first choice of returning and give them a definite answer by Christmas, at the latest, in the new year.

Yes, you can.

Once you get your passport, please update your resumé using the link provided after you submit your form

Unfortunately, we only recruit South African citizens residing in South Africa at this stage.

I understand that you are currently working in the USA but are unhappy with your employer and wish to move to another farmer. However, please note that moving from one farmer to another in the US can be a costly and time-consuming process for both you and your employer.

We recommend that you get in touch with us as soon as possible so that we can mediate between you and your current employer. We will work with your US agent to examine your situation and find workable solutions that can help you complete your contract.

If a solution can be reached and you are able to work out your contract, it will reflect positively on you when you apply for future positions. Prospective employers prefer candidates who stay the full contract term rather than those who move around frequently during the season.

In recent times, employers have been wary of applicants who switch jobs multiple times within a season, as they believe that such workers may do the same to them. So, it is in your best interest to work out your contract and maintain your professional reputation.

Yes, if you or a family member do not currently have a credit card, we recommend applying for one at your bank. Even if you open one with the minimum amount allowed by the bank, this will make the visa payment process quicker. You will be able to book an appointment immediately after completing the payment. Additionally, you may benefit from insurance coverage if your credit card pays for flights.

Unfortunately, I am unable to assist you with this issue. However, I can suggest a few websites where you may be able to recover the information associated with your SSN. Please note that these websites require your SSN to log in.

After you submit your online job application, we will receive a notification email. Then, we will review your resume and conduct the necessary background checks. When a farmer or US agent requests applicants, we will select candidates who meet their requirements and send them 4 to 6 resumes to review. Once the farmer has made their selection, we will send you a formal employment offer that needs to be signed and returned to us. As soon as we receive your acceptance, we will notify the farmer.

• Not necessarily. This depends on the farmer.

• We have designed our application form over several seasons with honest input from our farmers. Many of them feel comfortable extending an offer of employment to a candidate based solely on the application form. However, some farmers prefer to interview the candidates before making a final decision.

We suggest that our farmers use WhatsApp to communicate with us if they wish to schedule an interview. This app supports voice and video calls, making it a convenient option. Moreover, it is the most popular app in South Africa and is cost-effective. Please ensure that the WhatsApp number provided in your application can receive both WhatsApp messages and voice calls.

How long will it take for me to receive a job offer?" is a common question that we receive. The answer is that there is no fixed time frame. We receive a lot of job requests at the beginning of the year, but fewer later on. Placement with a farmer can happen within a few days or may take a few weeks depending on the availability of jobs. The primary factor that determines how quickly you are placed is your level of experience.

1. Approval documents await from US

1.1. ETA790 work agreement

1.2. 797 B Notice of Action

2. Visa specialist

3. (DS160 visa application)

4. DHL / Interview

5. Consulate (case created - no status - application received - approved - issued)

6. DHL return

7. Flight arrangements

8. US arrival

Candidates with sufficient farming experience, thoroughly completed applications & valid references will have a better chance of getting placed quickly than candidates with limited experience.

You do not need to pay any fees to Farm Recruit USA. The only costs you need to cover are the visa and flights.

Visa:$205 (2024)

The visa MRV fee is US$205; the ZAR amount changes with the Rand/dollar exchange rate.

As of 2019, farmers are required by law to reimburse you the visa fee as well.

Flights estimated cost: Between R20 000-R30 000. Costs depend on the departure airport, final destination, day of flight, when the booking was made, etc.

The cost of the flight is paid back to you by the employer. Depending on your contract, the first half of the flight ticket is paid back within 48 hours of arrival & the other half at a later stage during your contract period.

To proceed with your visa application process in South Africa, we require all of the following documents from you:

1. Work Agreement: This document (Form ETA-790 and ETA-790A) is the Agricultural Clearance Order issued by the U.S. Department of Labor. It outlines your employment terms and conditions, duties, responsibilities, and obligations.

2. Final Approval: I-797B Notice of Action. These documents are from the US State Departments that you have filed for H2A Agricultural workers.

We have partnered with specialists to ensure the smooth and accurate submission of your online nonimmigrant visa application for the H2A visa. Our fees cover the cost of paying these specialists, who will assist you in completing each application. The primary goal is to receive instructions to courier documents to the Consulate instead of scheduling an interview.

Simple Visas:

Maritza Meiring

Tel: 079 296 4657

Email: martizameiring@gmail.com

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/people/Simple-Visas/100089299836643/?mibextid=ZbWKwL

After the worker received instructions to courier his passport and documentation,

Here’s an explanation of the different stages involved in visa processing:

1. Case created – This is the date when you submitted your application online using the DS160 form.

2. No status – At this stage, your documents have been delivered to the consulate through DHL, but they have not yet updated their system to show that they have received them.

3. Application received – This is just a confirmation from the consulate that they have received your documents and have entered the details into their system.

4. Administrative processing – At this stage, a caseworker will review your application to ensure that you meet all the visa requirements. If there is any missing information, insufficient documentation, or if an in-person interview is required, the consulate will contact you.

5. Issued – If your visa application has been approved, the consulate will issue your visa stamp. This stage means that your visa is almost ready and you should receive it within a week to 10 days. If you don't receive anything, you can contact the consulate for an update.

6. Refused – This status does not mean that your visa has been denied. Rather, it means that the consulate requires additional information or documentation from you. They will send you an email with further instructions. It could also mean that they are busy with the documentation and have failed to update the status or have updated it incorrectly.

We can only start the process once you have your passport in hand.

Over the past few years, we have established a partnership with a travel agent who helps us find the best flights possible. The agent ensures that all workers travel together to the same farm and coordinates their return flights to South Africa. She is also available 24/7 to assist workers with any travel changes. Her assistance has been vital in providing necessary information about COVID travel disruptions caused by travel bans and rerouting.

We do not receive kickbacks from this service. However, the agent understands our business's nature and is always available to assist us as needed.

The travel agent will get a few quotes for flights arriving on different dates through different airlines to the airport of your choice. Once we have received your approval on the dates and costs, we will finalize the flight bookings with the workers and resend the details to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

Global Explore

Website: https://www.globalexplore.co.za/

Flight costs typically range between R20,000 and R30,000, and may vary depending on factors such as the departure airport, final destination, and availability on the day of booking. It's important to note that the cost of the flight will be covered by your employer, subject to the terms of your contract and arrangements with them.

In terms of payment, the first half of your flight ticket, an MRV fee of US $205, and your courier service will be covered during the first pay period. The remaining half of your flight ticket will be paid at the end of your season.

No, the farmer will provide the basics such as linens, pots, pans, and cutlery. You may choose to take your own pillow, and we recommend packing your own towels. We will provide you with guidelines for packing for the United States.

The farmer is responsible for providing housing for their workers. Usually, a communal house is shared by the men who work for the same or neighboring farmer. The housing is inspected annually by the US State Department and must comply with certain requirements before the farmer can obtain H2A certification.

It's important to note that you, as a worker, will be responsible for covering all your expenses, including food, spices, toiletries, laundry detergents, clothing, entertainment, and so on.

The preferred airlineis Delta, they fly to most of the destinations that the farmers request. Booking directly with the airline also keeps the costs down and booking with one airline, makes changing connecting flights easier when you've missed yours (eg. due to customs & immigration processes being slow). We will however sometimes make use of other airlines, solely because Delta doesn't serve the airport to which you are required to fly to.

All of the airports have free WiFi available, please connect to this and notify us on the WhatsApp group as soon as you know how long you’ll be delayed and / or of any flight changes. We will then notify the farmer and the US agent of these changes.

We have teamed up with a very competent lady. We make use of her service, as she is willing to assist us any day of the week & understands the process & requirements involved. Her excellent service ensures that we can get everyone a fair deal & to make the process of group bookings run smoothly. With her help, she is able to secure a booking & cost for 24 hours, enabling payments to be made by either EFT, credit card or in-store payments.

Please speak to us if you wish to use another travel agent.

When you decide to make a change to your flights (e.g., an earlier return date), unfortunately, Farm Recruit USA can't assist with that. If you've booked through an airline directly, you will have to contact them to make the flight change. Check their website for the local contact numbers, & remember to have your confirmation number ready when calling.

If you've booked through a travel agent, you contact them to make the flight change. We've noticed from past experience that the travel agent will want to speak to the traveler directly, not via email. This creates a problem as the traveler (you) will be in the US, while your travel agent is in SA. The time difference itself creates a problem, & international calls will cost quite a bit. When booking through a travel agent, discuss this possibility with them beforehand. Designate a friend or family member who can contact them on your behalf should you decide to change your flight while in the USA.

When you want to change your flight, it usually incurs a cost. The cost is usually a combination of a change fee and the fare difference, or it could be either one of them. You will be responsible for paying this cost to change your flight. Please note that the airline will not be covering this fee, and it will be your own expense.

Check with your airline for the allowed maximum bags and weights. For checked-in bags, it's usually 2 bags at 23kg (50 lbs) each, but make sure before you go!

Please keep in mind the following TSA regulations when packing for your upcoming trip:

1. Liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes can be brought in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint. However, they must be limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) or less per item and fit into a quart-sized resealable bag.

2. All checked and carry-on baggage must be screened by TSA (Transportation Security Agency) before being permitted on a commercial aircraft to ensure safe transportation for all travellers.

3. While technology allows us to electronically screen bags without opening them, physical inspection may sometimes be necessary. TSA has developed locks that can be opened by security officers using universal "master" keys to help prevent the need for cutting locks. However, if your checked baggage is locked and cannot be opened through other means, the locks may have to be cut for security purposes. In such cases, TSA will not be liable for any damage caused to locked bags. Please note that if an officer needs to open your bag, a “Notice of Baggage Inspection” will be placed in it.

With the vast benefits the various banks offer, we unfortunately don’t have all the details. Visit or call your nearest branch and get the details from them.

They will also provide you with the most recent & accurate information.

Thank you for reaching out. Unfortunately, we do not offer travel or medical insurance. However, we can provide you with some recommendations for organizations that do offer these services. If you have any questions regarding travel TIC, Bryte (the new work-away plan exclusively for workers taking contracts in the agricultural sectors), or US medical cover, please feel free to get in touch with Charlotte Crafford or Wybrandt Lubbe through the contact information provided below:

links

• Charlotte Crafford: +27 74 695 2239

• Wybrandt Lubbe: +27 82 568 1874

Additionally, it is advisable to contact your medical aid to confirm whether they will cover you during your trip and for how long. If you are a farmer's worker, any medical expenses incurred while on duty will be covered by the farmer's workers' compensation. Let us know if you have any further queries.

Usually, the employer chooses the nearest airport for pick-up and drop-off, which reduces travel time between the airport and the farm. Sometimes, an airport in another state is only a few minutes away, while an airport in the same state may be hours away. Therefore, the employer chooses the airport in the neighboring state for ease of transportation.

When you and a friend/ family member are going to the US, but to different farmers, & we advise you to use different airlines, we have a reason for that. You might be able to go to your final destination on Delta, whilst your friend/ family member will be flying to the final destination on American Airlines. Some airlines don't operate to the preferred airports, whilst others do. You might think that, let's say, Delta flies to an airport within the state you'll be going to, that that might be the best option. However, that airport might be another 4 hour's drive by bus away from where your farmer wants you. But when you book on American Airlines, the airport will be 30minutes away. It's easy to see which is the better option.

The nature of work that employees are expected to perform in the USA varies depending on the employer's needs and the workers' experience.

It may include manual labor such as digging holes, cleaning silos, ditches, carts, combines, semi-trucks, or grain carts, laying poly pipes, spraying chemicals using backpack sprayers, repairing and changing worn-out tires, as well as cleaning and washing machinery and workshops.

Some of these tasks, such as laying poly pipes, might have to be done in high temperatures exceeding 40°C and high humidity. Therefore, it is important to be prepared and willing to perform any job required by the employer.

I understand that you are curious about the nature of your job duties. While your visa class is for a “seasonal farm labourer”, it does not mean that you will exclusively operate equipment such as tractors, trucks, and combines. Your duties may include, but are not limited to:

- Assisting with planting, tillage, irrigation, chemical or fertilizer application

- Harvesting and delivering crops to packaging and/or processing facilities

- Loading seed into planters properly and operating equipment to plant crops

- Participating in irrigation activities, including laying pipe, setting up and operating irrigation equipment, and clearing and maintaining irrigation ditches

- Building, constructing and maintaining levees, installing and removing levy gates, and putting in spillways

- Using hand tools and equipment to repair, clean and maintain farm vehicles, machinery, specialized machinery, and agricultural equipment.

Regarding your hourly rate, unfortunately, it cannot be negotiated as it is set by the state, and each employed individual must be paid at the same rate.

The employer must pay all covered workers the Federal or State statutory minimum wage that is in effect when work is performed.

There is no guarantee of minimum hours per week for this job.

Since the work is dependent on the weather, some weeks might have lower hours due to rain, while other weeks might keep you busy all day.

The minimum hours mentioned in the contract are applicable only if they are not met by the end of the season.

You are guaranteed 75% of the minimum hours per season. This means that if your contract states a minimum of 40 hours per week and your employment period is for 30 weeks, you will receive at least 75% of those hours paid at the end of the season.

The calculation is as follows: 40 hours x 30 weeks = 1200 total hours; 75% guarantee: 75% of 1200 hours = 900 hours. However, this guarantee is not valid if you have already worked more than the minimum guaranteed hours during the season.

We do most of our work anywhere we have an internet connection with any of our devices. We also travel quite frequently for other work throughout the country and internationally.

The best way to contact us is via our email, info@farmrecruitusa.com, WhatsApp number (text only), or use our contact form.

Yes, WhatsApp text messages are preferred.

Yes, please take a look at our Facebook page.