Defra has announced it expects to open Window 2 of the Sustainable Farming Incentive 2026 (SFI26) on 22 September.
Those who were eligible to apply but did not submit an application during Window 1 can do so during Window 2.
Defra says that for those farmers who started an application but did not submit it before Window 1 closed, these will remain in the system and can be completed when Window 2 opens. The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) will contact these applicants shortly to explain the next steps.
However, some farmers with a Window 1 SNS application will need to start a new application when Window 2 opens. This applies where RPA has had to withdraw the original application because:
- an applicant has requested a mapping update after starting their Window 1 SNS application, meaning a new application is needed to reflect the updated land details
- an existing Environmental Land Management (ELM) revenue agreement that expires on or before 28 February 2027, meaning a new application is required for the “apply early” functionality to work.
Defra says that the RPA’s communication to affected farmers will explain what they need to do and why a new application is required.
It also stresses that the approach of retaining most Window 1 SNS applications on the system so applicants can complete and submit them when Window 2 opens, applies only to Window 1 of SFI26. It does not set a precedent for how SNS applications will be handled in Window 2 of SFI26 or in future SFI application rounds. Defra will confirm the approach for Window 2 in due course.
