Looking for an opportunity to move to the UK? The Seasonal Worker Visa offers a straightforward way to work temporarily in the UK while building your visa history and gaining international work experience. Many people dismiss it as a low-tier job, but in reality, this visa can be a stepping stone to better opportunities.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- What the Seasonal Worker Visa is
- Who is eligible
- How to find a sponsoring employer
- Documents needed
- Application process
- Top companies offering sponsorship
What is the Seasonal Worker Visa?
The Seasonal Worker Visa (Temporary Work Visa) allows foreign nationals to work in the UK for a limited time in specific industries. This visa is primarily available for jobs in horticulture (fruit, vegetable, and flower picking) and poultry production.
- Horticulture jobs allow workers to stay for up to 6 months.
- Poultry jobs are available from October 2 to December 31 each year, and applications must be submitted by November 15.
Why Consider the Seasonal Worker Visa?
✅ Build your UK visa history ✅ Gain work experience abroad ✅ Improve your transferable skills ✅ Open doors to better job opportunities in the future ✅ Work legally and earn UK wages
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for this visa, you must meet the following requirements:
✔ Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old. ✔ Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): You need a reference number from a licensed UK sponsor. ✔ Proof of Funds: You must show at least £1,270 in savings (or have an employer cover this cost). ✔ Job Offer: Your job must meet the UK minimum wage requirements. ✔ Valid Passport: You need a passport with at least one blank page for the visa stamp. ✔ English Translation: If any documents are not in English, they must be officially translated.
Documents Required for Application
When applying for the Seasonal Worker Visa, you must provide:
📌 Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) – Provided by your UK employer 📌 Valid Passport – Showing identity and nationality 📌 Proof of Funds – Bank statements or employer confirmation 📌 Employment Documents – Job offer letter, contract, or payslips 📌 Visa Application Form – Completed online through the UK government website 📌 Certified Translations – If documents are not in English
Application Fees & Processing Time
💰 Visa Fee: Approx. £259 ⏳ Processing Time: Around 3 weeks from the application date
How to Find a Sponsor for the Seasonal Worker Visa
To apply for this visa, you must have a sponsoring employer in the UK. Here are some reliable sources to find jobs:
| Website | Type of Jobs Available |
|---|---|
| Indeed.co.uk | Seasonal & permanent roles |
| Seasonalworker.co.uk | Agriculture & farm jobs |
| Findajob.dwp.gov.uk | Government-approved job listings |
Top UK Companies That Offer Sponsorship
1️⃣ AG Recruitment 2️⃣ Fruitful Jobs 3️⃣ Pro-Force 4️⃣ AB Agri 5️⃣ FGS Agri 6️⃣ AB Fruits 7️⃣ National Farmers Union 8️⃣ AG Space Agriculture Ltd 9️⃣ Jepco 10️⃣ Government of the UK (Find A Job Portal)
Tip: Always verify a company’s sponsorship license before applying to avoid scams.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Secure a Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor
- Apply on trusted job sites (see above).
- Ensure the employer is on the UK government’s list of approved sponsors.
2. Receive Your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Your employer will provide a reference number needed for the visa application.
3. Gather Your Required Documents
- Make sure all documents are correct and up-to-date.
4. Apply Online
- Submit your application through the UK Home Office website.
- Pay the application fee (£259).
5. Attend a Biometric Appointment
- Book an appointment at a visa application center to submit fingerprints and photos.
6. Wait for Approval
- Processing takes about 3 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I extend my Seasonal Worker Visa?
No, this visa cannot be extended. You must leave the UK when your visa expires.
2. Can I bring my family with me?
No, dependents are not allowed on this visa.
3. What happens after my Seasonal Worker Visa expires?
You must return to your home country. However, you can apply for other UK visas based on your experience.
4. Can I switch to a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes! If you find an eligible employer willing to sponsor a Skilled Worker Visa, you can switch visas.
Final Thoughts
The Seasonal Worker Visa is an excellent opportunity for those seeking legal work in the UK. While it may not be a long-term solution, it provides a valuable stepping stone towards better job prospects and a stronger UK visa record.
🔹 Start your application today! Use the job links and company recommendations provided above to find a sponsoring employer. If you have any questions, drop them in the comments!
📌 Like, Share & Subscribe – If you found this guide helpful, share it with someone who might need it.
Happy job hunting! 🇬🇧✈️
