UK Temporary Worker Visa – Apply Now!

The UK Seasonal Worker Visa allows foreign nationals to come to the UK for up to 6 months to do temporary farm work, such as harvesting fruits and vegetables, or horticultural jobs in greenhouses.

This visa is part of the UK’s Temporary Work Visa category and is sponsored, meaning you must have a job offer from a government-approved sponsor.

Key Features at a Glance

Who Can Apply for the Seasonal Worker Visa?

You are eligible if you:

• Are 18 years or older

• Have a job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor (see list below)

• Have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

• Have at least £1,270 in your bank account (to support yourself unless your sponsor covers it)

Eligible Roles for 2025

The seasonal route is only available for:

1. Horticulture jobs

   • Fruit and vegetable picking

   • Farm work (e.g., strawberries, apples, grapes)

   • Greenhouse operations (flowers, mushrooms, tomatoes)

2. Poultry work (only available between October 2 and December 31) – typically for Christmas demand

Salary & Working Conditions

Most Seasonal Worker jobs pay UK minimum wage or higher, based on age:

Other benefits may include:

• Accommodation provided (often in caravans or shared housing)

• Transport to and from the farm

• Some employers deduct for accommodation from your salary (legally capped)

Required Documents

To apply, you’ll need:

• Valid passport

• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number

• Proof of £1,270 in personal savings

• Tuberculosis test results (for applicants from certain countries)

• Proof of accommodation or sponsorship letter

Approved UK Sponsors for 2025

The UK government has approved several agencies to recruit foreign workers under the Seasonal Worker Visa. You must apply through them.

How to Apply for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa

Step 1: Apply Through a Licensed Sponsor

• Choose a licensed agency (e.g., AG Recruitment)

• Complete their application form

• Attend interviews or submit documentation (passport, CV, etc.)

Step 2: Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

If successful, the sponsor will issue your CoS, which is required to start the visa process.

Step 3: Apply Online for the Visa

• Go to the official UK Visa and Immigration portal

• Fill out the application form

• Pay the visa fee: £298

• Upload supporting documents

Step 4: Biometric Appointment

Visit your local visa application center to:

• Provide fingerprints and a photograph

• Submit original documents (if required)

Step 5: Wait for Decision

• Decision usually takes 3 weeks

• You’ll receive a 30-day visa vignette in your passport to enter the UK

Who Can Apply? (Eligible Countries)

Applicants from many non-EU countries are eligible. Common source countries include:

• India

• Nepal

• Bangladesh

• Nigeria

• Pakistan

• Kenya

• Philippines

• Indonesia

• Ukraine

Why the UK Is Hiring Seasonal Workers in 2025

The UK faces labor shortages in agriculture due to:

• Brexit and reduced access to EU workers

• Growing domestic food production needs

• Seasonal demand in summer and winter harvests

In 2025, the UK government has increased the Seasonal Worker Visa quota to 45,000 workers, with an option to raise it to 55,000 if needed.

Seasonal Work Visa: Pros and Cons

Pro Tips for Getting Hired

• Apply early in the year (January–March) for summer roles

• Create a clear CV showing physical capability, flexibility, and reliability

• Watch out for scam recruiters – only deal with UK-licensed agencies

• Be honest about previous work experience

• Prepare for basic English interviews with recruitment agents

FAQs About the UK Seasonal Worker Visa

Q: Can I switch to another visa while in the UK?
A: No. You must return home and apply for a new visa if eligible.

Q: Can I work for another employer?
A: Only if they are on your CoS. Changing employers requires new sponsorship.

Q: Do I need to speak English?
A: There’s no formal English test, but basic communication skills are preferred.

Q: Will accommodation be provided?
A: Most sponsors provide housing, but it’s often in rural locations with shared amenities.

Conclusion

The UK Seasonal Worker Visa in 2025 is one of the easiest ways to enter the UK legally for work — especially for those with limited education or professional skills. It’s ideal for students, young workers, and people looking to gain experience abroad.

While it doesn’t lead to permanent settlement, many seasonal workers return year after year and even transition into other visa categories (such as Skilled Worker or Study Visas) after gaining exposure and saving up.