UK Extends Seasonal Work Visa for 5 Years: Eligibility, & Application Guide

The UK government has extended its Seasonal Worker Visa Scheme for another five years, allowing farmers and food producers to hire foreign workers on short-term contracts.

This decision follows recommendations from the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), which highlighted the ongoing shortage of seasonal labour in agriculture. However, concerns remain regarding worker exploitation and rights.

What is the UK Seasonal Work Visa?

The UK Seasonal Worker Visa is designed for overseas workers who wish to take up temporary agricultural jobs, such as fruit picking, vegetable harvesting, and other farm-related tasks.

Introduced in 2019 following Brexit, the Seasonal Worker Scheme addresses labor shortages by granting temporary visas to overseas workers, which restricted access to European workers.

Key Features of the Extended Scheme

• The visa allows workers to stay in the UK for up to six months.
• A total of 45,000 visas will be available in 2025.
• The scheme is managed through approved scheme operators.
• Workers are restricted to employment in the horticulture and poultry sectors.

2025 Seasonal Worker Visa Allocation

The UK government has confirmed 45000 visa allocation for seasonal workers for the year 2025:

• Horticulture: 43,000 visas for roles like fruit and vegetable picking and flower harvesting.
• Poultry: 2,000 visas for workers needed between October 2 and December 31 for poultry processing and related tasks.

Eligibility Criteria for the Seasonal Worker Visa

To apply for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Job Offer: Secure a job through a Home Office-approved scheme operator.
2. Age Requirement: Must be 18 years or older.
3. Sponsorship: The employer must provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
4. Financial Requirement: Show proof of having at least £1,270 in savings to support themselves upon arrival.
5. No Dependents: The visa does not allow workers to bring family members.

Quick Application Process for the Seasonal Worker Visa

1. Find an Approved Scheme Operator – Applicants must first secure a job through a UK government-approved recruitment agency.
2. Receive Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) – The employer issues a CoS, containing job details and visa sponsorship.
3. Apply Online – Submit the visa application through the UK government website.
4. Pay Fees & Provide Biometrics – Pay the visa application fee (£264) and attend a biometrics appointment.
5. Wait for Decision – Processing typically takes three weeks if applying from outside the UK.

Worker Rights and Concerns Over Exploitation

Despite the scheme’s importance in addressing labor shortages, labor rights groups have raised concerns about worker exploitation. Many seasonal workers are tied to specific employers, limiting their ability to leave abusive workplaces.

Reports from organizations like Focus on Labour Exploitation (FLEX) highlight issues such as withheld wages, excessive work hours, and poor living conditions.

Kate Roberts, head of policy at FLEX, criticized the scheme’s structure, stating, “Seasonal Worker Visa holders currently have no realistic way to challenge poor working conditions, wage theft, or sexual harassment in the workplace.”

The UK government has assured that it is taking measures to combat worker exploitation, stating that the welfare of visa holders is a top priority.

Important Considerations

• The visa is valid for a limited period, typically up to six months.
• You can only work for the scheme operator that sponsored your visa.
• Ensure you understand your rights and responsibilities as a seasonal worker.

Final Thoughts

The extension of the UK Seasonal Worker Scheme offers continued job opportunities for foreign workers in the agricultural sector. However, while the visa process is relatively straightforward, potential applicants should be aware of their rights and challenges within the scheme.

For those seeking short-term work in the UK, ensuring employment through a reputable scheme operator is crucial to a successful and fair experience.