As the seasons change, so do opportunities for those seeking employment in the United Kingdom’s agricultural sector. The UK Seasonal Worker Visa, facilitated by the Department of Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), has opened its doors to 55,000 temporary workers in 2023, an increase from the previous quota of 45,000.
This initiative aims to address the needs of the horticulture industry, providing a chance for unskilled workers from around the world to engage in roles such as fruit and flower picking, poultry work, and vegetable cultivation.
Key Details of the UK Seasonal Worker Visa Process:
Job Opportunities:
- Job Types: Horticulture, Poultry
- Eligibility: Open to all international applicants
What is the Seasonal Workers Visa in the UK?
The Seasonal Worker Visa is designed to accommodate temporary workers who play a crucial role in the UK’s agriculture sector. Their responsibilities include picking and packing fruits, flowers, and vegetables, as well as engaging in poultry-related work.
Visa Processing Time and Cost: The processing time for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa is typically three to four weeks. Upon application, results are expected within three weeks. The visa cost stands at £259 for applicants from all countries.
Also Check: Top Recruitment Agencies in UK for Foreign Workers 2023
Sponsorship Companies:
Several reputable companies in the UK offer Seasonal Work Visa sponsorship. Some of these include:
- Pro-Force Limited
- Haygrove Recruitment
- Hops Labour Solutions
- Concordia UK Ltd.
- Various food processing, horticulture, and agricultural companies
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for the Seasonal Worker Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age: 18 years or older
- Possession of a sponsorship certificate from a UK employer
- Minimum of £1,270 in the applicant’s account for the first month, unless the sponsor covers the salary
- Written confirmation from the sponsor, including provisions for accommodation, meals, and other benefits
- Job offer for work in the UK
Also Check: UK Skilled Worker Visa 2023: Benefits, Requirements & Costs
Application Process:
- Job Search: Begin by finding seasonal worker visa-related jobs in the UK.
- Online Application: Apply for the chosen job online and pay the application fee.
- Documentation Submission: Provide your passport and biometrics.
- Visa Decision: Await the decision on your visa application.
Required Documents:
Ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Valid passport
- Sponsorship certificate
- Job offer
- Bank statement demonstrating financial capability to support yourself for one month in the UK
For a detailed application process, visit the official UK Seasonal Worker Visa website: Seasonal Worker Visa.
In 2023, the UK Seasonal Worker Visa stands as an opportunity for individuals seeking unskilled employment to contribute to the country’s vibrant agricultural sector. This comprehensive guide equips prospective applicants with the necessary information to navigate the process successfully.