The UK Seasonal Worker Visa for Agriculture 2026 allows foreign workers to legally work in the United Kingdom’s farming and horticulture sector for a limited period. Due to continued labour shortages, the UK government has extended and maintained this visa route to support farms, orchards, and agricultural businesses across the country.
This visa is ideal for unskilled and semi-skilled workers who want short-term work in the UK with visa sponsorship.
Job Details (2026)
- Country: United Kingdom
- Visa Type: Seasonal Worker Visa (Agriculture)
- Job Sector: Farming & Agriculture
- Job Type: Temporary / Seasonal
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes
- Experience Required: No
- Education Required: No
- Minimum Age: 18 Years
- Working Duration: Up to 6 months
- Salary: £10 – £12 per hour (may vary by employer)
Types of Jobs Available
The following agricultural roles are covered under the Seasonal Worker Visa in 2026:
- Fruit picking (berries, apples, pears)
- Vegetable harvesting (field & greenhouse crops)
- Mushroom farming
- Flower and plant cultivation
- Orchard work
- Nursery and greenhouse jobs
- Tree and woodland nursery roles
Benefits of Seasonal Agriculture Jobs in the UK
- Legal work permit for the UK
- Visa sponsorship by approved employers
- No degree or prior experience required
- Earn in British Pounds (£)
- Free or low-cost accommodation (many employers)
- On-job training provided
- International work experience
- Opportunity to return in future seasons
Eligibility Criteria (2026)
To apply for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa, you must:
- Be 18 years or older
- Have a valid passport
- Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from an approved UK sponsor
- Show £1,270 in savings (unless employer covers costs)
- Apply from outside the UK
- Be physically fit for farm work
⚠️ No English test (IELTS) required
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Your employer must issue a valid CoS that includes:
- Job role and duties
- Salary details
- Work location
- Start and end dates
- Confirmation of visa sponsorship
The CoS must be issued within 3 months before applying.
Visa Fees & Duration (2026)
- Visa Application Fee: £244
- Possible Discount: £55 (for eligible nationalities)
- Maximum Stay:
- Job duration +
- 2 weeks before & after
- Maximum 6 months in 12 months
What You Can & Cannot Do
✅ Allowed
- Work only in the sponsored agricultural job
- Study (if allowed by visa conditions)
❌ Not Allowed
- Permanent employment
- Second job
- Access public funds
How to Apply for Seasonal Jobs in the UK (2026)
- Find an approved UK agricultural sponsor
- Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship
- Apply online for the Seasonal Worker Visa
- Submit biometrics
- Wait for decision (usually within 3 weeks)
- Travel to the UK and start work
Final Words
The UK Seasonal Worker Visa 2026 is one of the easiest legal ways to work in the UK without education or experience. If you are hardworking, physically fit, and ready for short-term work abroad, this visa offers a genuine opportunity to earn, gain experience, and return for future seasons.