UK Extends Seasonal Work Visa Until 2029: Eligibility Criteria & Application Process

The UK government has announced an extension of its Seasonal Worker Visa scheme until 2029. This extension allows foreign workers to fill temporary agricultural roles. While the scheme addresses labor shortages, concerns about worker exploitation persist.

Overview: UK Seasonal Worker Visa

The Seasonal Worker Visa enables overseas individuals to take on temporary agricultural jobs. These jobs include fruit picking, vegetable harvesting, and other farm-related tasks. Introduced in 2019 after Brexit, this scheme provides temporary visas to foreign workers. It addresses labor shortages by limiting access to European workers.

Key Features of the Extended Scheme

The extended visa scheme offers several important features:

• Workers can stay in the UK for a maximum of six months.
• The government will allocate 45,000 visas in 2025.
• The scheme operates through approved scheme operators.
• Workers can only be employed in the horticulture and poultry sectors.

2025 Seasonal Worker Visa Allocation

For 2025, the UK government has confirmed the following visa allocations:

• Horticulture: 43,000 visas for roles like fruit and vegetable picking and flower harvesting.
• Poultry: 2,000 visas for positions in poultry processing from October 2 to December 31.

Eligibility Criteria for the Seasonal Worker Visa

To qualify for the Seasonal Worker Visa, applicants must meet specific requirements:

• Job Offer: Secure employment through a Home Office-approved scheme operator.
• Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• Sponsorship: Employers must provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
• Financial Requirement: Applicants need to demonstrate at least £1,270 in savings.
• No Dependents: The visa does not permit family members to join.

Quick Application Process

The application process for the Seasonal Worker Visa is straightforward:

• Find an Approved Scheme Operator: Secure a job through a UK government-approved recruitment agency.
• Receive Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): The employer issues a CoS with job details.
• Apply Online: Submit the visa application on the UK government website.
• Pay Fees & Provide Biometrics: Pay the application fee (£264) and attend a biometrics appointment.
• Wait for Decision: Processing usually takes about three weeks for overseas applicants.

Worker Rights and Concerns

Despite its benefits, the scheme raises concerns about worker rights and exploitation. Labor rights groups highlight issues like wage theft, poor working conditions, and excessive hours. Many seasonal workers find themselves tied to specific employers, making it difficult to leave abusive situations.

Kate Roberts, head of policy at Focus on Labour Exploitation (FLEX), criticized the scheme. She stated, “Seasonal Worker Visa holders currently have no realistic way to challenge poor working conditions.” The UK government asserts that it prioritizes the welfare of visa holders and is taking steps to combat exploitation.

Important Considerations

The Seasonal Worker Visa is valid for only six months. Workers can only be employed by the scheme operator that sponsored their visa. Applicants must understand their rights and responsibilities as seasonal workers.

Final Thoughts

The extension of the UK Seasonal Worker Scheme continues to provide job opportunities in agriculture for foreign workers. While the application process is straightforward, applicants must remain aware of their rights and potential challenges. Securing employment through a reputable scheme operator is vital for a fair and positive experience in the UK.