Seasonal Worker Visa

As businesses and industries around the world experience fluctuations in demand, seasonal work becomes an essential part of the workforce. Many countries rely on foreign workers to fill seasonal jobs, especially in agriculture, tourism, and hospitality industries. To address this need, various governments have created seasonal worker visa programs, which allow employers to hire foreign workers on a temporary basis. These programs provide many benefits for both employers and workers, including meeting labor shortages, diversifying the workforce, and boosting local economies. However, navigating the process of obtaining a seasonal worker visa can be complex and daunting, with various requirements and regulations to consider. In this article, we will explore the world of seasonal worker visas, discussing what they are, how they work, and the benefits and challenges of utilizing them.

What are the Eligibility Criteria for Seasonal Worker UK

To be eligible to work in the UK as a seasonal worker, you must meet the following criteria:

1.  You must be at least 18 years old.
2.  You must be a national of a country outside the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland.
3.  You must be able to speak, read, and understand English to a satisfactory level.
4. You must be in good health and not have any medical conditions that could pose a risk to public health.
5. You must not have any criminal convictions or have been deported from the UK in the past.
6. You must apply for and be granted a Seasonal Worker Visa, which allows you to work in the UK for up to 6 months.
7. You must have a job offer from a licensed sponsor that is on the Home Office’s register of sponsors.

Note that the eligibility criteria may vary depending on the specific type of seasonal work and visa you are applying for. It’s important to check the most up-to-date information on the UK government’s website or consult with an immigration specialist for guidance.

What are Seasonal Worker Visa Eligible Roles

The Seasonal Worker Visa is designed for individuals who wish to come to the UK to work in certain seasonal roles. The eligible roles include:

1. Agriculture: Harvesting crops, planting and maintaining agricultural land, and other related tasks.
2. Horticulture: Planting, picking and maintaining crops, such as fruit and vegetables, and other related tasks.
3. Processing and packaging: Sorting, grading, and packing produce for distribution.
4. Meat processing: Processing and packing meat products.
5. Poultry farming: Rearing and caring for chickens, turkeys, ducks, and other poultry.
6. Fish processing: Preparing and packing fish and seafood products.
7. Hotel and catering: Working in hotels, restaurants, cafes, and other hospitality establishments during peak season.

Note that these are just some examples of eligible roles and the list is not exhaustive. The UK government may update the list of eligible roles, so it’s important to check the most up-to-date information on the UK government’s website.

Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Requirement

A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is a unique reference number that is issued to employers who wish to sponsor non-EEA workers in the UK. It is a mandatory requirement for most work visas, including the skilled worker visa.

The CoS contains information about the job role, salary, and length of stay in the UK. Employers must provide evidence that they have conducted a Resident Labour Market Test (RLMT) before issuing a CoS, to demonstrate that they have been unable to find a suitable candidate for the job from within the UK or the EEA.

To be eligible for a CoS, the job role must also meet the minimum skill and salary requirements set out by the UK government. The salary threshold depends on the type of visa and the job role. In addition, the employer must be registered as a licensed sponsor with the UK government.

The CGM App is designed for expats, sponsoring companies and business immigration advisors. Click here to get started 

Once an employer has issued a CoS to a non-EEA worker, the worker can use it to apply for a work visa to enter and work in the UK. It’s important to note that having a CoS does not guarantee that the visa application will be approved, and the worker must still meet all the other eligibility criteria for the relevant visa category.

Seasonal Worker Visa Financial Requirement

To be eligible for a Seasonal Worker Visa in the UK, you must meet the financial requirement. You must have enough money to support yourself during your stay in the UK without relying on public funds.

The specific amount of money required depends on your individual circumstances and the length of your stay. Generally, you will need to provide evidence that you have at least £1,270 in savings, which is held for at least 28 consecutive days prior to your visa application.

If your employer provides accommodation and covers your meals, you may be able to show a lower amount of savings. However, you will still need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover any additional expenses, such as transportation, medical treatment, and other daily expenses.

You may also be required to provide evidence of your financial status, such as bank statements, pay slips, or tax returns.

It’s important to note that the UK government may update the financial requirement at any time, so it’s important to check the most up-to-date information on the UK government’s website or consult with an immigration specialist for guidance.

Seasonal Worker Visa Application Process

To apply for a Seasonal Worker Visa in the UK, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria for the Seasonal Worker Visa. This includes having a job offer from a licensed sponsor in an eligible sector, meeting the English language requirements, and having enough funds to support yourself during your stay in the UK.
2. Submit an online application for a Seasonal Worker Visa through the UK government’s website. You will need to provide your personal details, biometric information, and supporting documents such as your passport, job offer, and financial evidence.
3. You will be required to pay a fee for your visa application. The amount will depend on the length of your stay and whether you are applying from within or outside the UK.
4. You may be required to attend an appointment at a visa application centre to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and a photograph.
5. You will receive a decision on your visa application after your application has been processed. This may take several weeks, depending on your location and the time of year.
6. If your application is successful, you will be issued a Seasonal Worker Visa vignette in your passport, which will allow you to travel to the UK. You must collect your visa within 30 days of receiving the decision.
7. When you arrive in the UK, you will need to show your passport, visa vignette, and supporting documents to the border control officer. You may also be asked some questions about your job, accommodation, and plans during your stay in the UK.

It’s important to note that the application process may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the country where you are applying from. It’s recommended to check the most up-to-date information on the UK government’s website or consult with an immigration specialist for guidance.

Seasonal Worker Visa Application Fees and Fee Reduction

The application fee for a Seasonal Worker Visa in the UK depends on the length of stay and where you are applying from. As of April 2023, the fees are as follows:

• £244 for a visa of up to 6 months
• £464 for a visa of up to 12 months

Additionally, you may also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your visa application. This is a fee that allows you to access the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK during your stay. The amount of the Immigration Health Surcharge is currently £624 per year for adults and £470 per year for students.

If you are a citizen of a country that has a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK, you may be exempt from paying the Immigration Health Surcharge. You can check if you are eligible for an exemption on the UK government’s website.

In some cases, you may also be eligible for a fee reduction or waiver. For example, if you are a citizen of a country that is classified as a least developed country by the United Nations, you may be eligible for a reduced application fee. Additionally, if you are a dependant of a member of the UK armed forces, you may be eligible for a fee waiver.

The CGM App is designed for expats, sponsoring companies and business immigration advisors. Click here to get started 

It’s important to note that fee reductions and waivers are subject to change and availability, so it’s recommended to check the most up-to-date information on the UK government’s website or consult with an immigration specialist for guidance.

Duration of a Seasonal Worker Visa

The duration of a Seasonal Worker Visa in the UK depends on the length of your job offer and the type of visa you are applying for. As of April 2023, the visa lengths are as follows:

• Up to 6 months: If you have a job offer for up to 6 months, you can apply for a Seasonal Worker Visa for up to 6 months.
• Up to 12 months: If you have a job offer for up to 6 months but your sponsor can justify the need for a longer stay, you may be able to apply for a Seasonal Worker Visa for up to 12 months.

It’s important to note that a Seasonal Worker Visa cannot be extended beyond the maximum length of stay, and you must leave the UK at the end of your visa. However, you may be eligible to apply for another Seasonal Worker Visa in the future if you meet the eligibility criteria.

It’s recommended to check the most up-to-date information on the UK government’s website or consult with an immigration specialist for guidance on the duration of a Seasonal Worker Visa.

Conditions of stay as a Seasonal Worker Visa holder

As a Seasonal Worker Visa holder in the UK, you must comply with certain conditions during your stay. These conditions include:

1. You must work for the sponsor who has provided you with a job offer. You cannot work for anyone else or undertake any other employment while in the UK.
2. You must leave the UK before your visa expires. You cannot remain in the UK after your visa has expired, and you cannot switch to another type of visa from within the UK.
3. You cannot claim most public benefits or use public funds, such as welfare benefits or housing assistance.
4. You must maintain adequate accommodation during your stay in the UK. This means that you must have a suitable place to live that meets health and safety standards.
5. You must have enough money to support yourself during your stay in the UK without relying on public funds.
6. You must report any changes in your circumstances to your sponsor, such as changes to your address, employment status, or personal details.

It’s important to note that failure to comply with these conditions may result in your visa being curtailed or cancelled, and you may be required to leave the UK. It’s recommended to check the most up-to-date information on the UK government’s website or consult with an immigration specialist for guidance on the conditions of stay as a Seasonal Worker Visa holder.

Switching into Seasonal Worker Visa Route

If you are already in the UK and wish to switch to a Seasonal Worker Visa, you may be able to do so if you meet the eligibility criteria. However, it’s important to note that you must not be in the UK on a Visitor Visa, Short-term Study Visa, or on a visa that was granted for less than 6 months.

To switch into a Seasonal Worker Visa route, you must have a job offer from a licensed sponsor who is eligible to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). You must also meet the English language and financial requirements for the visa, as well as any other requirements specific to your situation.

To apply for a Seasonal Worker Visa from within the UK, you must submit an online application and attend a biometric appointment to provide your fingerprints and a photograph. The application fee will depend on the length of your visa, as well as any other fees or charges that may apply.

It’s recommended to check the most up-to-date information on the UK government’s website or consult with an immigration specialist for guidance on switching to a Seasonal Worker Visa route.

The CGM App is designed for expats, sponsoring companies and business immigration advisors. Click here to get started 

Seasonal Worker Visa Refusals

If your Seasonal Worker Visa application is refused, you will receive a letter from the Home Office explaining the reasons for the refusal. Some common reasons for refusal include:

1. If you do not meet the eligibility requirements for the Seasonal Worker Visa, your application may be refused. For example, if you do not have a valid job offer from a licensed sponsor or do not meet the English language or financial requirements.
2. If the Home Office has concerns about your previous immigration history, such as previous visa refusals or overstaying a previous visa, they may refuse your application.
3. If you do not provide the correct or sufficient documentation to support your application, the Home Office may refuse your application. For example, if you fail to provide a valid Certificate of Sponsorship or evidence of meeting the financial requirement.

If your application is refused, you may be able to appeal the decision or submit a request for an administrative review. However, the options available to you will depend on the specific circumstances of your case.

It’s recommended to seek the advice of an immigration specialist if your Seasonal Worker Visa application is refused, as they can provide guidance on the next steps to take.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Seasonal Worker Visa is a UK visa route designed for individuals who wish to come to the UK to work temporarily in a seasonal job. The visa is intended to fill temporary labour shortages in specific sectors, such as agriculture, horticulture, and food processing. To be eligible for this visa, applicants must have a job offer from a licensed sponsor, meet the English language and financial requirements, and have adequate accommodation in the UK.

The application process for the Seasonal Worker Visa involves submitting an online application, attending a biometric appointment, and paying the appropriate fees. However, there is a financial requirement that applicants must meet, which can vary depending on the length of the visa.

It’s important to note that the Seasonal Worker Visa has specific conditions of stay that must be adhered to, and failure to comply with these conditions may result in the visa being curtailed or cancelled. Additionally, if your application is refused, there are options available to you, such as appealing the decision or requesting an administrative review.

Overall, the Seasonal Worker Visa is a valuable option for individuals who wish to work temporarily in the UK during seasonal periods. By meeting the eligibility criteria and adhering to the conditions of stay, applicants can successfully obtain this visa and contribute to the UK’s economy and workforce.

Frequently asked questions

[faq-schema id=”167278″]