How to get work as a seasonal worker in the UK?

The United Kingdom has been actively revising its immigration policies to streamline and expedite the process, particularly in relation to overseas channels across various working sectors. Among these, the seasonal worker route has gained significant attention and popularity.

Seasonal Worker Route in the UK: This program allows individuals to undertake part-time employment on a temporary basis in specific sectors. Notably, the UK government has expanded the seasonal sectors to include the poultry production sector, especially from October to December, aligning with the high demand period before Christmas. Poultry workers are ensured salaries that comply with the minimum wage standards.

Benefits and Restrictions:  Seasonal Worker Visas permit holders to work in the profession listed on their certificate of sponsorship and also to pursue studies in the UK. However, this visa does not allow for permanent employment, taking up jobs not specified in the certificate of sponsorship, bringing family members to the UK, or accessing public funds.

What is the eligibility for the seasonal workers?

To be eligible for Seasonal Workers the applicants can apply in the following roles

Seasonal workers can apply for roles in:

• Horticulture (up to 6 months) for tasks like picking fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
• Poultry production (October to December).

Applicant Requirements:

• Age at least 18 years at the time of application.
• Possession of a sponsorship certificate from an employer.
• Sufficient funds for self-support in the UK (minimum of £1270).
• A valid passport with at least six months' validity and one blank page.
• Additional documents as required, with non-English documents translated.

How to apply as a seasonal worker?

Application Process: The application process for a Seasonal Worker Visa is primarily online, involving:

1. Securing a job as a seasonal worker in the UK.
2. Applying for the visa.
3. Visiting a Visa application centre for biometrics.
4. Using the 'UK Immigration: ID Check' app for document scanning.
5. Paying the application fee (£259).

The decision on the application typically takes about three weeks. Sometimes, it can take longer than expected owing to the case.
Salary Expectations: Seasonal workers in the UK can earn approximately £12.26 per hour. It's advisable to apply three months before the planned job start date. The visa permits the applicant entry into the UK 14 days before job commencement. The restrictions are levied for not more than six months in a 12-month period on a temporary visa.

What is the employer eligibility requirement?

Employer Eligibility Requirements needs to be met if the employers are looking to hire seasonal workers must also meet specific criteria:

• They must be an approved scheme operator with a valid Temporary Worker sponsor license.
• They should not hold a sponsor license for any other route.
• Compliance with all sponsor duties, including additional responsibilities as an approved scheme operator, is mandatory.

These revisions and expansions in the seasonal worker route by the UK government are part of broader efforts to adapt to labor market demands while ensuring regulatory compliance and worker protection.