Moving Abroad

UK Seasonal Worker Visa: Horticulture and Poultry Work Explained

2 min read

In this guide
  1. Quick answer
  2. When can you apply?
  3. What can and cannot you do?
  4. Common mistakes
  5. FAQ
    1. Does this replace an older visa?
  6. Key takeaways
  7. Related guides
  8. Sources

The UK Seasonal Worker visa lets you do temporary farm work in the UK with a licensed sponsor. This guide explains the two work categories, the cost and the limits, using information published on GOV.UK.

Quick answer

  • Horticulture work, such as picking fruit, vegetables or flowers, for up to 6 months.
  • Poultry work from 2 October to 31 December in the same year; apply for poultry by 15 November each year.
  • Horticulture applications can be made at any time of year.
  • You need a sponsor and must meet the other eligibility requirements, including enough personal savings.
  • Application fee: £340. A decision usually arrives within 3 weeks.

When can you apply?

Up to 3 months before the start date on your certificate of sponsorship. You prove your identity and provide documents as part of the application, and an appointment may add time. You may enter the UK as soon as the visa is valid, up to 14 days before your job start date.

What can and cannot you do?

You can You cannot
Do the job on your certificate of sponsorship Take a permanent job
Study (some courses need an ATAS certificate) Work a second job or one not on your certificate
Claim public funds or bring family members

Common mistakes

  • Missing the 15 November poultry deadline.
  • Planning to bring a partner or children.
  • Taking extra work outside the certificate. Beware of job offers that ask you to pay a private individual; read visa and job offer scams.

FAQ

Does this replace an older visa?

GOV.UK says it replaced the Temporary Worker Seasonal Worker visa (T5).

Key takeaways

  • Get a sponsor first.
  • Budget the fee and savings.
  • Stick to the job on your certificate.

Last updated: October 2026. General information, not legal advice. Confirm on GOV.UK.

Sources

  • GOV.UK: Seasonal Worker visa

Keep reading