The Seasonal Worker Visa allows individuals to come to the UK temporarily for specific types of seasonal work. This visa has replaced the Temporary Worker – Seasonal Worker visa (T5). The types of eligible work under this visa include horticulture, such as picking fruits, vegetables, or flowers for up to 6 months, and poultry from 18 October to 31 December (in the same year).
Eligibility Criteria
• Must be 18 or over when applying.
• Must 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 your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days within the 31-day period prior to the date of application
Seasonal Worker Visa Eligible Roles
To qualify for a Temporary Work – Seasonal Worker Visa within the horticulture sector or poultry production sector, your proposed role must be an eligible role.
Employer's Requirements
Employers must be valid scheme operators endorsed by DEFRA and licensed by the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority. They must also provide a safe work environment, fair treatment, employment contracts in both the worker’s first language and English and proper payment in accordance with National Minimum Wage regulations.
Temporary Work – Seasonal Worker Visa Application Fees and Fee Reduction
The Home Office application fee for a Temporary Work–Seasonal Worker Visa application is currently £244.
This fee will be automatically reduced by £55 if you are a national of:
Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, or Turkey.
Due to the short duration of this route — up to six months — there is typically no Immigration Health Surcharge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Seasonal Worker route for?
Currently, only horticulture and poultry production workers are eligible to apply for a seasonal worker visa.
Can I switch?
You can’t switch to this route from another route.
How long is a Seasonal Worker visa valid for?
You will be able to enter and remain in the UK for the period of the job on your Certificate of Sponsorship.
What is the application process?
The earliest you can apply for a Temporary Work – Seasonal Worker Visa is 3 months before the date on which you are due to start work. This can be found on your Certificate of Sponsorship.
You should receive a decision on your Seasonal Worker Visa application within 3 weeks.
Why Choose UK Visas?
Expert Guidance: Our team of immigration experts has in-depth knowledge and expertise in the Sponsor Licence application process. We stay up to date with the latest immigration regulations and provide accurate guidance to ensure a successful outcome.
Tailored Solutions: We understand that every business is unique. Our services are adapted to meet your specific needs, whether you are a small business or a large corporation. We adapt our approach to accommodate your requirements and maximize your chances of obtaining a Sponsor Licence.
Efficiency and Time Saving: Navigating the complexities of the Sponsor Licence application process can be time-consuming and overwhelming. By choosing UK Visas, you can save valuable time and focus on your core business activities while we manage the administrative aspects of your application.
Compliance Assurance: We prioritize compliance and ensure that your HR systems and practices align with the Home Office's requirements. Our ongoing support helps you maintain compliance throughout the sponsorship process, minimizing the risk of penalties or license revocation.
Transparent Communication: We believe in clear and open communication with our clients. Throughout the process, we keep you informed about the progress of your application, provide updates on any regulatory changes, and address any concerns or queries you may have.
Choose UK Visas for your Sponsor Licence needs and unlock access to a global pool of talent. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and take the first step towards a successful sponsorship journey.
