🌱 Purpose and Scope
The visa supports the UK agricultural industry by allowing foreign nationals to fill temporary seasonal roles, particularly in:
- Horticulture – picking fruits, vegetables, and flowers
- Poultry production – seasonal farm work from October to December
⚠️ Note: This visa is strictly for temporary employment and does not lead to permanent residency.
📅 Duration of Stay
- Horticulture roles: Up to 6 months
- Poultry production: Up to 3 months (October–December)
✅ Key Eligibility Requirements
To apply, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor
- Meet basic financial requirements (e.g., show you can support yourself)
No English language test or previous work experience is required.
📊 Annual Quota
The UK government limits the number of Seasonal Worker Visas issued annually.
Quotas are divided between:
- Horticulture sector
- Poultry sector
💷 Visa Fees and Costs
- Visa fee: ~£298
- Additional costs may include:
- Travel
- Accommodation
- Living expenses
🔎 How to Find Seasonal Work
1. ✅ Find a Sponsor
You must be sponsored by a licensed UK scheme operator.
A full list is available on the GOV.UK website.
2. 🖥️ Check Job Boards
Many agriculture-specific platforms post open seasonal roles regularly.
3. 🤝 Build a Network
Reach out to people and companies involved in:
- UK farming
- Poultry production
They can help identify opportunities and guide you through the process.
⚠️ Important Considerations
- Temporary Stay Only: Cannot be extended or converted to a long-term visa
- No Residency Path: Does not lead to permanent residence
- Sector Specific: Only valid for horticulture and poultry roles
- Sponsor Responsibility: The employer is accountable for your visa compliance
💡 Final Note
The UK Seasonal Worker Visa is perfect for those seeking:
- Short-term work abroad
- Agricultural experience
- Extra income during seasonal months
While it doesn’t offer a long-term future in the UK, it provides a useful entry point into the agricultural sector and supports the UK’s food production system.