If you are seeking temporary work in the UK, the Seasonal Worker Visa is an excellent opportunity. It is specifically designed for workers in the horticulture (fruits, vegetables, and flowers) and poultry sectors, where labor demand peaks during growing and harvest seasons.
With the UK increasing the quota to 55,000 visas in 2026, this program is one of the easiest pathways for foreign workers to gain legal work experience, earn competitive wages, and explore life in UK.
What Is the UK Seasonal Worker Visa?
The UK Seasonal Worker Visa is a temporary work visa allowing foreign nationals to work in the UK for up to 6 months in seasonal agricultural roles. Jobs typically include:
- Picking and packing fruits, vegetables, and flowers
- Processing and packaging poultry
- Other temporary agricultural tasks
This visa provides legal authorization to work in UK while being sponsored by a certified employer.
Key Sectors for Seasonal Work
1. Horticulture Sector
Workers may perform duties in:
- Field vegetables: Potatoes, lettuce, herbs
- Soft fruits: Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries (fields or greenhouses)
- Top fruits: Apples, plums, cherries (orchards)
- Flowers and ornamental plants: Dahlias, pansies, poinsettias
- Mushrooms: Indoor cultivation in controlled environments
2. Poultry Sector
Common roles include:
- Butcher or Plucker
- Food Operative
- Poultry Handler
- Poultry Vaccinator
These roles support the UK’s agricultural and food processing industries, helping address seasonal labor shortages.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- Age: 18 years or older
- Job Offer from UK Employer: Your employer must be licensed to sponsor seasonal workers and provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Financial Support: Minimum £1,270 in savings unless your employer covers living costs
- Valid Passport: At least 6 months of validity beyond your intended stay
- Health & Character Checks: May include a TB test if you are from a high-risk country
How to Apply for a UK Seasonal Worker Visa
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer
Find a seasonal job in the UK through licensed recruiters or employers, such as:
- Pro-Force Limited
- Haygrove Recruitment
- Hops Labour Solutions
- Concordia UK Ltd.
- Fruitful Jobs Limited
Your employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship required for the visa application.
Step 2: Apply Online
Visit the UK Government Visa Portal and submit your application, providing:
- Personal information
- Passport details
- Certificate of Sponsorship
- Employment information
Step 3: Pay Fees
- Visa Application Fee: £259
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Depends on length of stay (grants NHS access)
Step 4: Submit and Wait
Visa decisions typically take 3–4 weeks. Track your application online and ensure your contact information is current.
Step 5: Travel and Start Work
Once approved, you can travel to the UK and begin your seasonal work with your sponsoring employer.
Required Documents
- Valid Passport
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
- Proof of funds (bank statement)
- Job Offer Letter
- Health proof (TB test if applicable)
Benefits of the UK Seasonal Worker Visa
For Workers:
- Legal Work Status: Visa sponsorship ensures lawful employment
- Higher Wages: Seasonal agricultural roles pay competitively
- Work Experience: Gain UK agricultural and food processing skills
- Cultural Exchange: Experience UK life and work alongside a diverse workforce
- Networking Opportunities: Build professional contacts in agriculture
For the UK:
- Labour Shortages Solved: Seasonal roles are filled with skilled temporary workers
- Economic Contribution: Workers contribute to local economies
- Cultural Diversity: Foreign workers enrich the UK workforce and communities
Conclusion
The UK Seasonal Worker Visa is a practical and achievable option for foreign workers seeking short-term employment in the UK. With an increased quota of 55,000 visas in 2026, it opens doors to horticulture and poultry jobs, competitive wages, and legal work status.
Follow the steps above, secure your job offer, and take your first step toward working in the UK this season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sectors are covered by the UK Seasonal Worker Visa?
Jobs in horticulture (fruits, vegetables, and flowers) and poultry production.
How long does it take to process the visa?
A2: Typically 3–4 weeks from online submission.
What are the key requirements?
- Minimum age 18
- Certificate of Sponsorship from a UK employer
- Proof of funds (£1,270) unless exempt
- Valid passport and health checks
