The UK Seasonal Worker Visa 2025 allows individuals to work temporarily in the UK’s horticulture and poultry industries. This visa is designed to fill labor shortages during peak seasons and is an excellent opportunity for those looking to gain work experience in the UK.
UK Seasonal Worker Visa 2025 Overview
| Category | Details |
| Visa Type | Seasonal Worker Visa (Temporary Work) |
| Eligible Sectors | Horticulture (6 months) & Poultry (Oct–Dec) |
| Governing Body | UK Home Office |
| Application Fee | £298 |
| Financial Requirement | £1,270 in savings for 28 days |
| Processing Time | Approximately 3 weeks |
| Sponsor Requirement | A valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) |
| Stay Duration | 6 months (Horticulture) / 3 months (Poultry) |
What is the UK Seasonal Worker Visa?
The UK Seasonal Worker Visa enables foreign workers to undertake temporary employment in agriculture and poultry sectors. This visa has replaced the Temporary Worker – Seasonal Worker (T5) visa and provides opportunities for non-UK residents to support the country’s labor demand during peak seasons.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age Requirement: Must be 18 years or older.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): A valid CoS from a UK-licensed sponsor is required.
- Eligible Jobs: Work must be in horticulture (picking fruit, vegetables, flowers) or poultry (October to December only).
- Financial Requirement: You need at least £1,270 in your bank account, held for 28 consecutive days.
- Health Requirement: Depending on your country, a tuberculosis (TB) test may be required.
What Are the Benefits of a UK Seasonal Worker Visa?
- Temporary Work Opportunity: Gain employment for up to 6 months in the UK.
- Access to UK Job Market: Work experience with UK employers.
- Visa Sponsorship: Employers may assist with accommodation and travel.
- No Long-Term Commitment: Ideal for those seeking temporary international work.
How to Apply for UK Seasonal Worker Visa
1. Find a Licensed UK Sponsor
- Secure a job offer from a UK-based licensed sponsor.
- The employer will provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
2. Gather Required Documents
- Valid passport with a blank visa page.
- Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.
- Proof of sufficient funds (£1,270 minimum).
- Health test results (if applicable).
3. Apply Online
- Submit the visa application through the UK Government website.
- Upload required documents.
- Pay the £298 application fee.
4. Biometric Appointment
- Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre.
- Provide fingerprints and photograph for a biometric residence permit.
5. Wait for Visa Decision
- Processing time is around 3 weeks.
- If approved, the visa will specify the start and end date of employment.
What You Can and Cannot Do on a Seasonal Worker Visa
Allowed Activities:
- Work in the job described in your Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Study (for certain courses, Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance may be needed).
Prohibited Activities:
- Taking a permanent job in the UK.
- Changing employers without permission.
- Accessing public funds (government benefits).
- Bringing family members under this visa.
Important FAQs About UK Seasonal Worker Visa
1. Can I apply for a Seasonal Worker Visa at any time of the year?
– For horticulture work: Yes, applications are accepted all year round.
– For poultry work: Applications are only open until November 15 each year.
2. How much does the UK Seasonal Worker Visa cost?
-The visa application fee is £298.
-You must also show at least £1,270 in savings, unless your employer covers your costs.
3. Can I switch jobs or extend my stay under this visa?
-No, you must work for the employer that issued your Certificate of Sponsorship.
-The visa cannot be extended beyond 6 months (horticulture) or 3 months (poultry).
4. Can I bring my family with me on a Seasonal Worker Visa?
No, this visa does not allow dependents to accompany you.
5. What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstaying is a serious offense and may lead to deportation and future bans from entering the UK.
Final Thoughts About UK Seasonal Worker Visa
The UK Seasonal Worker Visa 2025 provides an excellent opportunity for temporary employment in horticulture and poultry sectors. By meeting the eligibility criteria and following the correct application process, workers can benefit from this scheme while ensuring compliance with UK visa rules.
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If you’re considering applying, start by securing a licensed sponsor and preparing your documents early to ensure a smooth application process.
PV Martinez holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Michigan. When not analyzing numbers, PV enjoys playing football and spending time singing his favorite tunes.
