The UK Seasonal Visa is a short-term work visa specifically for those seeking temporary roles in the horticulture and poultry sectors. This visa allows workers to stay in the UK for a limited time but does not lead to permanent residency. The horticulture sector includes roles like fruit and vegetable picking, while the poultry sector supports seasonal needs. In 2024, the UK issued 47,000 seasonal visas: 45,000 for horticulture and 2,000 for poultry. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the UK Seasonal Visa process.
The UK Seasonal Worker Visa is open to applicants worldwide, and it does not require advanced qualifications. However, applicants must have enough funds to support themselves upon arrival, with a minimum of £1,270 in their account. More details are below:
About the UK Seasonal Worker Visa
- Country: UK
- Job Sectors: Horticulture, Poultry
- Eligibility: Open to applicants from all countries, age 18+
- Visa Type: Seasonal Worker Visa (Temporary Visa)
Horticulture Sector
Workers in horticulture can engage in various roles, including:
- Protected Vegetables: Grown in glasshouses
- Field Vegetables: Includes leafy greens, herbs, and potatoes
- Soft Fruit: Berries such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries
- Top Fruit: Orchard fruits like apples, plums, and cherries
- Mushrooms: Includes indoor-grown species like Agaricus bisporus
- Bulbs and Cut Flowers: Flowers like daffodils, grown indoors and outdoors
- Pot Plants: Seasonal plants like pansies and poinsettias
- Hardy Ornamental Nursery Stock: Christmas trees, roses, and ornamental trees
- Tree and Forest Nurseries
Poultry Production Sector
Poultry workers can engage in positions such as:
- Butchers (Code 5431)
- Bird/Game Dressers (Code 5433)
- Poultry Processors and Handlers (Codes 5433, 9111, and 9134)
- Food Operatives (Code 8111)
Who Can Apply?
Applicants aged 18 and above from any country are eligible. Applications are submitted online.
UK Seasonal Worker Visa Cost
- Visa Application Fee: £298, payable online
Work Duration and Eligibility
- Horticulture: Available year-round, maximum stay of six months
- Poultry: Available from October 18 to December 31 annually, applications accepted until November 15
Eligibility Criteria
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Issued by a licensed UK sponsor, detailing your employment terms.
- Financial Requirements: You must have £1,270 in your bank account to cover initial expenses unless the sponsor covers this amount, which should be stated in the sponsorship letter.
- Accommodation and Benefits: If the employer offers accommodation or benefits, this should be documented in the CoS letter.
- Minimum Wage Compliance: Employers must pay at least the minimum wage.
- Job Offer: A valid job offer is required to apply.
Required Documents
- Proof of Job Offer: CoS reference number from your sponsor
- Valid Passport
- Bank Statements: Showing sufficient funds
How to Apply Online for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa
- Find a Job: Secure a job offer from a UK employer.
- Apply Online: Complete the online application on the UK Government’s Visas and Immigration website.
- Pay the Fee and Book an Appointment: Schedule an appointment at a UK visa application center.
- Submit Biometrics and Passport: Provide your fingerprints and other relevant documents.
- Wait for Visa Decision: Processing typically takes 3 to 4 weeks, with a decision usually within 3 weeks of application.
Restrictions on a UK Seasonal Visa
- No Permanent Job Offers: Limited to the role specified in the CoS.
- No Public Funds: Seasonal workers are not eligible for public benefits.
- No Family Accompaniment: Family members cannot accompany you on this visa.
For further information or to apply, visit the UK Government’s Seasonal Worker Visa page.
Published on: 6 de March de 2026