Seasonal Worker Visa

The Seasonal Worker Visa allows individuals to come to the UK temporarily to undertake seasonal work in specific sectors, such as horticulture. This visa is designed to address labor shortages during peak seasons and is valid for a short-term stay.

This visa does not lead to settlement in the UK and is intended solely for temporary work purposes.

Eligibility

To qualify for a Seasonal Worker Visa, you must:

Be aged 18 or over.
Have a job offer for seasonal work in an eligible sector, such as horticulture (e.g., picking fruit and vegetables or flowers).
Have a Certificate of Sponsorship reference number from your UK sponsor.
Have at least £1,270 in your bank account to support yourself in the UK, unless your sponsor can cover your costs during your first month.

Duration of Stay

The Seasonal Worker Visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 6 months in a 12-month period. Extensions or switching to another visa category while in the UK are not permitted under this visa.

Application Process

Timeline

You can apply for a Seasonal Worker Visa up to 3 months before your job’s start date as listed on your Certificate of Sponsorship. As part of your application, you will need to:

Prove your identity.
Provide required documents, including your Certificate of Sponsorship reference number and proof of sufficient funds to support yourself.

Decision Timeframe

You should get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks when you apply from outside the UK.

Rights and Restrictions

What You Can Do:

Work in the job described in your Certificate of Sponsorship.
Study for up to 6 months.

What You Cannot Do:

Take a permanent job.
Work in a second job or a job that is not described in your Certificate of Sponsorship.
Apply for most benefits (public funds) or the State Pension.
Bring family members (dependents) with you on this visa.
Apply to settle permanently in the UK.

Get in touch with us now at Squadlead to make your Seasonal Worker Visa application process seamless and stress-free!