The UK government has announced 45,000 new Seasonal Worker visas for 2025, specifically designed for temporary roles in agriculture and poultry. This article breaks down what this means for Africans interested in working in the UK, covering eligibility, key requirements, and the steps to apply.
Why the Seasonal Worker Visa Matters
The Seasonal Worker visa allows foreign nationals, including those from Africa, to work in the UK’s agriculture and poultry sectors. This visa offers short-term work opportunities that help farmers and poultry producers meet increased seasonal demand. With 43,000 visas available for horticulture (such as fruit picking) and 2,000 for poultry (from October to December), the UK aims to address labour shortages, sustain food production, and improve automation.
Key Details of the 2025 Visa Allocation
- Horticulture: 43,000 visas for jobs in fruit and vegetable harvesting, flower picking, and other essential farm tasks.
- Poultry: 2,000 visas specifically for work in poultry processing and production, limited to peak demand between October 2 and December 31.
Program Extension and Future Investment
The UK government has extended the Seasonal Worker program until 2029, aiming to give the industry time to advance in automation and sustainability. By 2025, £50 million will be invested in technologies to support automation, helping to reduce the need for foreign workers over time.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Seasonal Worker visa, you’ll need to meet specific criteria:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
- Valid Sponsorship: Applicants need a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed UK employer in the horticulture or poultry industry.
- Return Requirement: You must leave the UK once your visa expires and cannot switch to other visa categories.
- Health and Safety: Proof of adequate health insurance and a clean criminal record are necessary
- Funds: You must have enough funds to support yourself during your stay.
How to Apply for the Seasonal Worker Visa
Applications for poultry positions should be submitted by November 15 each year to align with seasonal demand, while applications for horticulture positions are accepted year-round
Steps to Apply:
- Secure a Sponsor: Obtain sponsorship from a UK employer licensed to hire seasonal workers in the horticulture or poultry sectors.
- Online Application: Submit your application through the UK government’s immigration portal, providing your sponsor’s details and required documentation.
- Await Approval: Apply well in advance to ensure timely processing.
Job Roles Covered
The Seasonal Worker visa includes various roles:
- Horticulture
– Fruit and vegetable picking
– Flower harvesting
– Weeding, planting, and transplanting
– Operating farm machinery - Poultry
– Bird feeding and care
– Egg grading and packing
– Processing and slaughtering (in select roles)
Future Prospects for African Workers
The UK’s investment in technology, such as robotic pickers, reflects a gradual shift toward automated agriculture. However, African workers can still benefit from this temporary employment opportunity, gaining valuable skills and experience in the UK.
Final Thoughts
This visa program opens a door for African workers to gain experience and earn income in the UK’s agricultural and poultry sectors. While the UK aims to move toward automated solutions, this Seasonal Worker visa provides essential support for their industries and offers opportunities for international workers looking to work abroad temporarily.
