The Seasonal Worker visa is an essential route for individuals who are seeking temporary employment in the UK’s horticulture or poultry production industries. This blog is a guide to all the necessary steps in understanding the Seasonal Worker application process, eligibility requirements, and what potential applicants will need to know.

Background of the Seasonal Worker Visa

Following the UK’s exit from the European Union and the end of free movement rights for EU citizens, the UK government launched the Seasonal Worker visa scheme in 2019. Initially, the scheme only allowed for 2,500 places annually. However, due to unexpected demand, the quota expanded in 2023 and 2024, increasing to 45,000 workers per year, with potential plans to further increase it to 55,000.

Duration of Stay

The Seasonal Worker Visa only permits stays specific to the following industries:

Horticulture: Up to 6 months within a 12-month period.

Poultry Production: From 2nd October to 31st December each year.

Application Process

To apply for a Seasonal Worker visa, all applicants require a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from an approved sponsor. The sponsor must:

  • Be listed as A-rated on the Home Office’s register of licensed sponsors.
  • Have approval from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
  • Be licensed by the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority.

    Once applicants obtain a CoS, they can proceed with the visa application.

Financial Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate proof of financial stability by showing funds of at least £1,270 held for 28 days or provide evidence that their employer will cover their costs during the first month in the UK.

Entry Clearance

Applications must be made from another country outside the UK, as switching to a Seasonal Worker visa from another visa category within the UK is not allowed.

Eligible Roles

For the horticulture sector, eligible roles include work related to:

  • Protected and field vegetables
  • Soft and top fruits
  • Vines, mushrooms, bulbs, cut flowers, pot plants, hardy ornamental nursery stock, and tree nurseries

For the poultry production sector, roles include:

  • Butchers, bird/game dressers, poultry processors, and various other positions.

Conditions of the Visa

The Seasonal Worker visa is only aimed for temporary work and does not lead to permanent residence in the UK. Applicants cannot bring family members and are restricted from accepting permanent positions or second jobs. However, they are allowed to study certain courses with the right approvals.

Application Fees and Duration

The application fee is currently £298. If approved, horticulture workers can stay for the duration of their job as specified in the CoS, plus an additional 14 days before and after the job period, not exceeding 6 months. Poultry production workers are granted stay from 2nd October to 31st December.

Refusals and Further Assistance

If an application is refused, applicants may submit another application or request an Administrative Review. Arlingsworth Solicitors can assist in planning and ensuring that applicants meet their start dates, providing expert immigration advice tailored to applicant needs.

Future Outlook

The UK government has also announced a five-year extension to the Seasonal Worker visa scheme until 2029. This extension offers stability to employers in the food supply chain and ensures the UK’s food production remains resilient.

Arlingsworth Solicitors are dedicated to providing clear and reliable immigration advice. Our team is committed to understanding and meeting the needs of skilled workers when it comes to new schemes, offering professional and friendly service to guide you through the visa application process.

 

This article contains general information about the seasonal worker visa and does not constitute legal advice and should not be treated or relied upon as such. It is provided without any representations or warranties, express or implied. The information contained within this article is correct as of 10th January 2025.