The United Kingdom’s agricultural industry plays a vital role in ensuring food security and supporting the economy. To manage seasonal peaks particularly during planting and harvesting UK farms regularly hire temporary international workers through the UK Seasonal Worker Visa scheme.
This article provides a detailed guide on requirements, responsibilities, salaries, job types, benefits, and how to apply for seasonal farm worker jobs in the UK.
Job Details:
- Job Title: Seasonal Farm Worker
- Job Type: Temporary / Seasonal
- Location: Across various rural locations in the UK
- Visa Type: UK Seasonal Worker Visa (Tier 5)
- Pay Rate: From £10.18 per hour (depending on age group)
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Eligibility & Requirements:
To work as a seasonal farm worker in the UK, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age: Must be 18 years or older
- Physical Condition: Capable of performing physically demanding tasks in varying weather
- Work Experience: Not mandatory, but previous farming experience is a plus
- Language: Basic English understanding to follow instructions
- Visa Eligibility: Must apply for a Seasonal Worker Visa, valid for up to 6 months
- Sponsorship: Must receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed UK employer
Benefits:
1. Legal Work Authorization
Work under the UK Seasonal Worker Visa, which allows legal employment in agriculture for up to 6 months.
2. Competitive Hourly Pay
Earn according to the UK minimum wage, ranging from £7.49 to £10.42 per hour, with potential for overtime.
3. Accommodation Support
Most employers provide or assist with low-cost accommodation near the work site, reducing your living expenses.
4. Cultural Exchange Experience
Gain international exposure while working alongside people from different backgrounds and experiencing UK rural life.
5. Travel Assistance
Some employers help with airport pickup or travel planning, easing your relocation process.
6. No High Qualifications Needed
Jobs are entry-level, requiring basic English and physical fitness—no formal education or prior experience is mandatory.
7. Consistent Seasonal Demand
UK farms offer predictable work during planting and harvest seasons, providing stable short-term employment.
8. Skill Development
Learn basic agricultural, teamwork, and machinery handling skills, valuable for future opportunities in farm work globally.
9. Health and Safety Standards
Work in environments that comply with UK health and safety regulations, ensuring fair treatment and safe working conditions.
10. Future Rehire Opportunities
Workers who perform well may be invited back for seasonal roles in subsequent years.
Typical Responsibilities:
The day-to-day tasks depend on the type of farm and crop cycle. Common duties include:
- Picking & Harvesting: Collecting fruits, vegetables, or flowers
- Pruning: Trimming plants to promote healthy growth
- Planting & Seeding: Preparing fields and planting crops
- Weeding: Removing unwanted vegetation manually or using tools
- Irrigation: Watering crops and monitoring irrigation systems
- Packing & Grading: Sorting produce for distribution
- Basic Farm Maintenance: Cleaning equipment, fixing fences, etc.
- Livestock Handling (if applicable): Feeding and basic care of farm animals
Wage Information:
- Age 23 and above: £10.42/hour
- Age 21–22: £10.18/hour
- Age 18–20: £7.49/hour
- Under 18: £5.28/hour
Note: Actual earnings may increase with overtime, longer hours, or specialized tasks
Types of Seasonal Farm Jobs:
- Fruit Picker: The harvest’s peak, which includes cherries, strawberries, and pears.
- Vegetable Harvester: Our harvest includes potatoes, beets, and lettuce.
- Greenhouse Worker: Performs tasks such as sowing, tending, and harvesting plants in greenhouses.
- General Farm Laborer: Responsible for a variety of tasks, including planting, weeding, and maintenance.
- Livestock Worker: Responsible for the care and feeding of animals, as well as conducting fitness evaluations.
- Tractor Operator: Operates agricultural machinery for the purposes of seeding, harvesting, and plowing.
- Nurseryman: The cultivation of trees, timber, and flora within the nursery.
- Pruner: Performs the trimming and pruning of flora and wood in order to market healthy growth.
- Packhouse Worker: The process of organizing, packaging, and preparing merchandise for shipment.
- Irrigation Specialist: Responsible for the maintenance and operation of irrigation systems to ensure that the flora receives adequate water.
How To Apply for Seasonal Farm Worker Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship 2025?
1. Find an Approved Employer or Recruiter
Use trusted websites like
2. Apply for Jobs Online
Submit your CV to farms or agencies offering sponsorship.
3. Receive a Job Offer & Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Your employer will issue a CoS for your visa application.
4. Apply for the Visa
Apply through the official GOV.UK website. Provide:
- Passport
- CoS reference number
- Visa fee (~£259)
- Proof of financial support (unless covered by employer)
5. Travel & Start Work
Once your visa is approved, travel to the UK and start your job as scheduled.
Additional Information:
- You cannot take a permanent job or bring family with you under this visa.
- It is a temporary, non-extendable visa valid for up to 6 months.
- Workers must return home once the job or visa period ends.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is accommodation provided by the employer?
Yes, in most cases. Employers often provide or help arrange accommodation, though rent may be deducted from wages.
Do I need farming experience to qualify?
Farming experience is not mandatory but can increase your chances. Many employers provide basic on-site training.
What is the UK Seasonal Worker Visa?
The UK Seasonal Worker Visa allows foreign nationals to work in the horticulture sector (e.g., fruit and vegetable picking) for up to 6 months. It is a temporary, employer-sponsored visa.
