UK Seasonal Worker Visa Process 2025 – Apply Now

The Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has established the migratory worker quota. There will be 45,000 visas available for seasonal laborers in the gardening industry. An additional 5,000 cards will be issued from this point forward. I will provide you with information regarding the application procedure for a UK Seasonal Worker Visa. This visa is available to individuals from any country in the globe. Workers who possess no qualifications may apply for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa.

As of June, the UK Work Visa data indicates that 212,551 Work Visas had been issued. This encompasses a Health and Care Worker Visa, a Skilled Worker Visa, and other Temporary Visas. If you possess a Seasonal Worker’s Visa, you are permitted to remain in the United Kingdom for a maximum of six months. With minimal visa fees and no additional prerequisites. Additional details regarding the acquisition of a UK Seasonal Worker Visa are provided below.

Key Points:

  • Job Country: UK
  • Job Sector: Horticulture, Poultry
  • Who can Apply: Open to all Countries
  • No of Visas: 45,000 for 2025
  • Visa Type: Seasonal Worker Visa (Temporary Visa)

Who can Apply for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa?

A UK Seasonal Worker Visa is available to individuals from any country who are 18 years of age or older. You are required to submit an online application for a UK holiday visa.

Job Sectors:

You must secure employment in one of the following sectors:

  • Horticulture: Picking fruit, vegetables, or flowers
  • Poultry Sector.

Check Also: UK Standard Visitor Visa – Application Process

Quota for Seasonal Workers in the UK:

  • The UK government has extended the Seasonal Worker scheme until 2025, allowing 45,000 temporary workers to gather and pack fruits, vegetables, flowers, and poultry in the country.
  • In the event that the government deems it necessary to satisfy demand, an additional 10,000 cards may be included in this total.
  • Official news is available on the website of the United Kingdom Government.

UK Seasonal Worker Visa Processing Time:

The majority of the time, it takes between three and four weeks to obtain a work visa for the United Kingdom. Typically, you receive a response regarding your visa application within three weeks of submitting an online application.

UK Seasonal Worker Visa Cost:

The cost of a UK Seasonal Work Visa is £259 for all countries. Payment for the registration fee is required to be made online.

How Long You can Stay on a UK Seasonal Worker Visa?

This visa permits you to remain in the United Kingdom for a maximum of six months.

  • For a position in horticulture (employment is available throughout the United Kingdom).
  • For the purpose of bird-related activities (annually from October 18 to December 31).

Eligibility Criteria for UK Seasonal Worker Visa Process:

  • You must be at least 18 years old.
  • Accessible to all individuals worldwide.
  • A sponsorship certificate from your employer in the United Kingdom is required.
  • Your UK Sponsor will provide you with a certificate of support, which is a piece of paper.
  • A letter of sponsorship is provided by numerous companies and organizations in the United Kingdom that assist individuals in securing employment.
  • To be able to sustain yourself in the United Kingdom for the first month, you must have a minimum of £1,270 in your bank account. Unless your sponsor is able to cover a maximum of £1,270 of your expenses for your initial month in the United Kingdom.
  • In the event that your employer determines to furnish you with lodging, sustenance, and other advantages, it is imperative that this be specified in the letter.
  • The minimum wage for the position you hold must be paid by your employer.
  • A employment offer is required.

Benefits of UK Seasonal Worker Visa Process:

  • Legal Work Authorization: The visa enables individuals to work legally in the United Kingdom for a maximum of six months in specific sectors, with a primary focus on agriculture and horticulture.
  • Fast-Track Processing: The UK Seasonal Worker Visa frequently has a shorter processing time than other visa categories, enabling applicants to commence employment sooner.
  • No Advanced Qualifications Required: This position is generally accessible to a broader spectrum of individuals, as it does not require advanced education or specialized skills.
  • Opportunities for Earnings: In the United Kingdom, seasonal employment frequently offers competitive compensation, which may include overtime pay during prime seasons.
  • Accommodation Assistance: Numerous employers offer or facilitate the search for affordable housing in close proximity to the workplace, thereby alleviating the stress associated with relocation.
  • Cultural Experience: Living and working in the United Kingdom provides seasonal laborers with the opportunity to immerse themselves in British culture, language, and traditions.
  • Enhanced Employment Prospects: An individual’s CV can be improved by acquiring international work experience in the UK, which can open doors to future employment opportunities.
  • Health and Safety Standards: The United Kingdom’s rigorous health and safety regulations guarantee a secure work environment for its employees.
  • Support from Approved Operators: The visa program collaborates with approved operators who offer job placement and support services to workers.
  • Reapplication Pathway: Seasonal income opportunities are guaranteed for workers who effectively complete their contracts, as they are frequently able to reapply for the visa in subsequent years.
  • Access to Worker Protections: UK labor laws provide seasonal laborers with fair wages, regulated working hours, and access to grievance mechanisms.
  • Exposure to a Global Network: Seasonal employment facilitates the development of relationships with colleagues from various countries, thereby facilitating cultural exchange and networking.

UK Seasonal Worker Visa Sponsorship Companies:

The United Kingdom refers to approved corporations as sponsors, as they are responsible for the cost of your travel to or stay in the country. Some of the most well-known and admired companies in the United Kingdom that provide summer employment opportunities include:

  • Agricultural companies
  • Horticulture companies
  • Food processing companies
  • AG Recruitment
  • Pro-Force Limited
  • Concordia UK Ltd.
  • Fruitful Jobs Limited
  • Heygrove Recruitment
  • Hops Labor Solutions

Required Documents:

  • A passport that is currently valid
  • The sponsorship certificate
  • Employment opportunity
  • A statement from your bank or any other form of evidence that you have sufficient funds to sustain yourself in the United Kingdom

Step-by-Step UK Seasonal Worker Visa Process:

  • Step 1 (Recruitment): Locate employment that pertains to summer employment. Numerous organizations in the United Kingdom have been granted authorization to employ foreign personnel. Please refer to the list of UK employers that have been approved.
  • Step 2: Submit an online application for a UK seasonal visa.
  • Step 3: Schedule an interview and submit the application fee online.
  • Step 4: Your identification and biometrics must be submitted together.
  • Step 5: Await notification regarding the visa.

More Info

  1. Is the UK seasonal visa still open?

    The government has formally announced the visa allocation for the Seasonal Worker visa route in 2025. A total of 43,000 seasonal worker visas will be available for horticulture and 2,000 for poultry.

  2. How long does it take to get a seasonal worker visa UK?

    You will typically receive a decision on your visa within three weeks of uploading your application online, verifying your identity, and sending your documents.

  3. How to find a sponsor for a UK seasonal work visa?

    A valid employment offer from a licensed UK employer who has permission to sponsor workers under the Seasonal Worker Visa scheme is required. This employment offer is essential for the obtaining of your Certificate of Sponsorship, which is required for the submission of your visa application.