The UK government has decided to extend the Seasonal Worker Visa Scheme for another five years, allowing farms and food producers to continue hiring foreign workers for short-term roles.
This move aims to address ongoing labour shortages in agriculture and food production.
The scheme, which was initially planned to end in 2021, had been extended until 2024 at the request of the National Farmers Union (NFU). Now, the government has confirmed that it will remain in place until at least 2029.
Under the updated plan, seasonal workers can stay in the UK for up to six months. In 2025, the government will issue 45,000 visas under this scheme. Of these, 43,000 will be for roles in horticulture, such as fruit and vegetable picking, while 2,000 will be for poultry processing jobs available between October and December. Only workers hired by government-approved scheme operators will qualify.
Applicants must meet specific conditions to be eligible. They must:
Have a confirmed job offer from an approved scheme operator.
Be at least 18 years old.
Show proof of at least £1,270 in savings to support themselves after arrival.
Additionally, visa holders are not allowed to bring dependents to the UK.
The process remains simple. Applicants must first secure employment through a recognized recruitment agency. Once hired, they will receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which is required for the visa application.
The next steps include submitting an online visa application, paying a £264 fee, and attending a biometrics appointment. Processing usually takes around three weeks.
Despite the extension, concerns continue about working conditions for seasonal workers. Reports suggest that many workers are tied to specific employers, making it difficult to leave unsafe or unfair workplaces. Some have raised issues of wage theft, poor conditions, and harassment.
Labour rights groups urge workers to seek jobs only through reputable scheme operators to ensure fair treatment. The visa remains valid for six months, and workers must stay with the employer that sponsors them.
While the extension provides more opportunities for temporary employment in the UK, workers are advised to be aware of their rights and responsibilities under the scheme.