The UK government has extended the seasonal work visa programme for another five years, until 2029. Businessday claimed that 43,000 visas had been allocated for horticulture workers and 2,000 for the poultry sector.
This measure expands the options for 45,000 persons to pursue their immigration ambitions.
Here’s all you need to know about being a seasonal worker in the UK.
-The seasonal worker visa is intended for those who are not currently residing in the United Kingdom.
-You can work as a horticulture for up to six months, harvesting fruit, vegetables, flowers, or poultry.
– Horticulture visas are available year-round.
-Poultry opportunities are open from October 2nd until December 31st.
-Apply for poultry worker visas by November 15th each year.
Eligibility Criteria for UK Seasonal Workers
– Age requirement: 18 years or older.
-A certificate of sponsorship from a UK employer is required.
– Proof of £1,270 for self-support, unless supported by your company.
– Must have landed a position in horticulture or poultry.
Documents Required for a UK Seasonal Visa Application
– Your sponsor’s serial number for the Certificate of Sponsorship (COS).
– A bank statement demonstrating sufficient finances, unless sponsored.
– A valid international passport that includes visa pages.
– Certified translations of non-English/Welsh papers.
Steps to Apply for a UK Seasonal Work Visa
– Complete the application form on the UK Government’s Visas and Immigration website.
– Upload scanned papers.
– Pay the £259 visa charge.
– Schedule an appointment with a visa application centre.
Processing time and visa validity.
– Apply up to three months before your UK job starts.
– Processing times vary.
– Visa is valid for six months.
– You can enter the UK up to two weeks before the start date of your job.
As a UK seasonal worker
-You can work according to the terms of your sponsorship certificate.
-You can study while your visa is valid.
-You must only accept temporary employment.
-Any additional occupations outside of your certificate of sponsorship are forbidden.
-Access to public monies is prohibited.
-Bringing dependents is not permitted.
-Permanent settlement in the United Kingdom is not permitted.
