The UK government has announced a five-year extension of its Seasonal Worker Visa Scheme, allowing farmers and food producers to continue hiring foreign workers on short-term contracts.
Originally set to end in 2021, the scheme was extended until 2024 following requests from the National Farmers Union (NFU).
Under the latest update, seasonal workers can now stay in the UK for up to six months.
In 2025, the UK will issue 45,000 seasonal work visas, divided as follows:
43,000 visas for horticulture jobs, such as fruit and vegetable picking.
2,000 visas for poultry processing, available between October 2nd and December 31st.
Only workers employed by approved scheme operators will be eligible.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for a Seasonal Worker Visa, applicants must:
Secure a job offer from an approved scheme operator.
Be at least 18 years old.
Show proof of having at least £1,270 in savings to support themselves in the UK.
Important Note:
Visa holders cannot bring dependents with them to the UK.
How to Apply
1. Find a Job: Secure employment through an approved recruitment agency.
2. Get a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): This document is required for your visa application.
3. Submit Your Application Online: Pay the £264 application fee and book a biometrics appointment.
4. Wait for Approval: Processing usually takes about three weeks.
Despite the visa extension, concerns remain over the treatment of seasonal workers. Some reports suggest that workers are tied to specific employers, making it difficult to leave if they face poor working conditions or abuse.
Kate Roberts, Head of Policy at Focus on Labour Exploitation (FLEX), warned:
> “Seasonal Worker Visa holders currently have no realistic way to challenge poor working conditions, wage theft, or sexual harassment in the workplace.”
To ensure fair treatment, applicants are encouraged to choose reputable scheme operators and understand their rights before arriving in the UK.
