The UK government has officially extended its Seasonal Worker Visa Scheme for another five years, ensuring that farmers and food producers can continue hiring foreign workers for short-term roles.
Originally set to end in 2021, the scheme was previously extended to 2024 at the request of the National Farmers Union (NFU). Now, with labour shortages still a pressing issue, the UK has confirmed that seasonal workers can stay in the country for up to six months under the revised framework.
Visa Allocation for 2025
The government has earmarked 45,000 visas for seasonal employment next year, divided as follows:
43,000 visas for horticulture jobs, including fruit and vegetable picking.
2,000 visas for poultry processing, available between October 2nd and December 31st.
Only workers employed by approved scheme operators will be eligible to apply.
Who Can Apply for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa?
To qualify for this visa, applicants must meet specific criteria, including:
Securing a job offer from an approved UK scheme operator.
Being at least 18 years old.
Providing proof of at least £1,270 in savings to support themselves upon arrival.
Dependents are not allowed to accompany visa holders.
How to Apply?
Secure a job through an approved recruitment agency.
Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the employer.
Submit an online visa application, pay the £264 application fee, and attend a biometric appointment.
Wait for processing (usually takes three weeks).
Concerns Over Worker Exploitation
Despite the extension, advocacy groups have raised concerns about worker exploitation. Critics argue that many workers remain tied to their employers, making it difficult to report issues such as wage theft, unsafe working conditions, or harassment.
Kate Roberts, Head of Policy at Focus on Labour Exploitation (FLEX), emphasized:
“Seasonal Worker Visa holders currently have no realistic way to challenge poor working conditions, wage theft, or sexual harassment in the workplace.”
While the extension offers more opportunities for temporary workers, applicants are urged to seek employment through reputable scheme operators to ensure fair treatment and legal protection.
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