Seasonal Worker Visa
The Seasonal Worker Visa allows individuals to work temporarily in the UK in specific industries, including horticulture and poultry production. Workers can stay for up to six months or, for poultry roles, between October and December.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Seasonal Worker Visa, applicants must:
- Be 18 or older at the time of application
- Have a Certificate of Sponsorship from a Home Office-approved sponsor
- Plan to work in an eligible horticulture or poultry production job in the UK
- Have at least £1,270 in their bank account for 28 consecutive days within the 31 days before applying
- Note that the Seasonal Worker visa route has been extended until 2029, providing long-term stability for businesses
Seasonal Worker Visa Eligible Roles
The UK government has allocated 45,000 visas for 2025, with 43,000 for horticulture and 2,000 for poultry production.
Employer Requirements
Employers must:
- Be valid scheme operators, endorsed by DEFRA and licensed by the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority
- Provide a safe work environment, fair treatment, and employment contracts in both English and the worker’s first language
- Ensure proper payment in line with National Minimum Wage regulations
- Comply with increased government checks to ensure worker welfare standards are met
Application Fees
The Home Office application fee for a Seasonal Worker Visa is now £319.
Application Process
- The earliest you can apply is three months before your job start date, as listed on your Certificate of Sponsorship
- Poultry workers must apply by November 15 each year, while horticulture workers can apply at any time
- A decision is typically made within three weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Seasonal Worker Visa?
Only horticulture and poultry production workers can apply.
How long is the visa valid?
You can stay in the UK for the duration of your job, as stated on your Certificate of Sponsorship.
Why Choose UK Visas?
Our visa services provide comprehensive support for private individuals and businesses. Our immigration experts will guide you through the process, ensuring a smooth application experience.
