The United Kingdom offers a Seasonal Worker Visa for foreigners who want to work temporarily in farming, poultry, or horticulture. This visa allows overseas workers to fill short-term labour shortages during planting and harvesting seasons.
Whether you want to work on a farm, in greenhouses, or in fruit and vegetable production, this guide by euhelpers.co.ukexplains the full process to apply for a UK Seasonal Work Visa in 2025, including requirements, documents, and key steps.
What Is a Seasonal Worker Visa (UK)?
The UK Seasonal Worker Visa lets foreign nationals come to the United Kingdom for up to 6 months to work in horticulture (fruits, vegetables, and flowers) or poultry production.
It’s part of the UK government’s Temporary Work – Seasonal Worker scheme, which helps farms and food producers meet labour needs during busy seasons.
Who Can Apply for a UK Seasonal Work Visa?
You can apply for this visa if you:
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Are 18 years or older
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Have a valid job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor (approved by the Home Office)
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Plan to work in the horticulture or poultry sector
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Can prove you’ll leave the UK after your visa ends
Eligible Sectors under the Seasonal Worker Visa
| Sector | Allowed Work Activities | Visa Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Horticulture | Fruit, vegetable, and flower picking | Up to 6 months |
| Poultry Production | Poultry catching, processing, and packaging | 2 Oct – 31 Dec (each year) |
Documents Required
To apply for the UK Seasonal Work Visa, prepare the following:
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Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) – provided by your approved UK employer
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Valid Passport (minimum 6 months validity)
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Proof of Savings – at least £1,270 in your bank account (for 28 days)
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Health Insurance (if applicable)
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Proof of Accommodation (if arranged by employer)
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Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results (if required by your country)
Application Steps: How to Apply
Step 1: Get a Job Offer from a UK government-approved sponsor.
Your employer must provide a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
Step 2: Apply Online on the UK Government Visa Portal
Visit gov.uk/apply-seasonal-worker-visa and complete your application form.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee
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£298 (as of 2025 rates)
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You do not need to pay the healthcare surcharge for this visa.
Step 4: Submit Biometrics and Documents
Attend your nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide fingerprints, photographs, and documents.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
You’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks after completing your biometrics.
Visa Duration and Conditions
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Validity: Up to 6 months (horticulture) or until 31 December (poultry).
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Work Restrictions: You must only work for your sponsor.
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Family Members: You cannot bring dependents on this visa.
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Extension: The visa cannot be extended beyond the allowed duration.
Visa Fees and Processing Time
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Fee | £298 |
| Healthcare Surcharge | Not required |
| Processing Time | Around 3 weeks after biometrics |
| Stay Duration | Up to 6 months (non-extendable) |
Benefits of Working in the UK Seasonally
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Legal and transparent visa route
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Guaranteed employment through licensed sponsors
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Fair pay under UK labour law
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Gain international work experience
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Opportunity for repeat seasonal contracts
Top Tips for Applicants
✅ Apply early — especially before harvest season (March–September).
✅ Always verify your sponsor is Home Office approved.
✅ Prepare all documents in English or certified translations.
✅ Ensure your passport has at least one blank visa page.
✅ Use trusted recruitment partners like euhelpers.co.uk for verified opportunities.
Conclusion
The UK Seasonal Work Visa offers a legal and straightforward way for foreigners to earn income and gain experience in the United Kingdom’s agriculture and poultry industries.
If you’re ready to work in the UK this season, euhelpers.co.uk can help you connect with trusted UK sponsors and guide you through the full visa process.
? Apply now at euhelpers.co.uk and start your journey toward a legal and rewarding seasonal job in the UK.