How to Get Seasonal Work Permit for UK?

The UK Seasonal Worker Visa is a temporary work visa that allows individuals from outside the UK to take up short-term employment in specific sectors, primarily horticulture (such as fruit and vegetable picking) and poultry production. This visa is ideal for those seeking short-term work experience in the UK while meeting the needs of seasonal employers.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to apply for the Seasonal Worker Visa and what you need to qualify.

1. Secure a Job Offer in an Eligible Sector

To qualify, you must first secure a job offer from a UK employer who is licensed to sponsor seasonal workers. Eligible sectors include:

Horticulture: Jobs involving fruit, vegetable, or flower harvesting.
Poultry production: Available typically between October and December.

Employers must be authorized by the UK government to issue sponsorship for this visa. Some recruitment agencies, like RE Recruitment, help connect workers with approved employers—particularly in the poultry sector.

2. Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Once you are offered a job, your employer will provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)—a digital document containing a unique reference number. This certificate confirms your job details and proves your employer is sponsoring your application.

Important:

The CoS is valid for 3 months only and can be used once.
You must apply for your visa within this period.

3. Prepare the Required Documents

Before applying, gather all necessary documents, including:

A valid passport (with a blank page for the visa)
The Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
Proof of financial means: You must show you have at least £1,270 in your bank account to support yourself for the first month in the UK.
- Alternatively, your employer can certify on the CoS that they will cover this cost.
Any additional documents required by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), depending on your circumstances.

4. Complete the Online Application

Visit the official GOV.UK website and fill out the Seasonal Worker Visa application form. You’ll be asked to enter your personal information, job details, and Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.

5. Pay the Visa Application Fee

The visa fee for the Seasonal Worker Visa is currently £343. Payment is made during the online application process.

6. Attend a Biometrics Appointment

After submitting your online application, you will be required to book and attend a biometrics appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre in your home country. During this appointment, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken.

7. Submit Your Application

After completing all the above steps:

Ensure all documents are correctly uploaded or submitted.
Pay the visa fee.
Attend your biometrics appointment.
Then, submit your application for processing.

Visa processing times may vary, but decisions are typically made within a few weeks.

Additional Notes

You can stay in the UK for up to 6 months on a Seasonal Worker Visa.
You cannot bring family members on this visa.
You must leave the UK when your visa expires unless switching to another eligible visa category.
Visit the official GOV.UK Seasonal Worker Visa page for updates and detailed eligibility criteria.

The UK Seasonal Worker Visa offers a structured and legal way to gain short-term employment in key agricultural and poultry sectors. While the process is relatively straightforward, it requires careful attention to deadlines, documentation, and employer eligibility.

If you're considering applying, make sure to connect with a certified sponsor, prepare your documents early, and rely on trusted sources and agencies.