Seasonal Worker Visa UK: Requirements & Application

The Seasonal Worker visa offers overseas nationals the opportunity to work in certain temporary jobs in the UK horticulture and poultry sectors, such as fruit picking, vegetable harvesting, and other farm-related activities

While this visa offers a fast-tracked route to work in the UK, strict eligibility and conditions apply, including restrictions on the kind of work that can be performed. This visa is also only available if the employer has been licensed by the Home Office to hire foreign seasonal workers.

In this guide, we explain the key features of the Seasonal Worker visa, including the requirements that workers and employers have to meet to be eligible to use the route.

 

Section A: What is the UK Seasonal Worker Visa?

 

The UK Seasonal Worker Visa is a temporary visa designed to allow foreign nationals to work in certain sectors in the UK for a limited period.

It is one of a number of temporary work visas currently available to foreign workers, and replaced the previous Temporary Worker – Seasonal Worker visa (T5) under the UK’s Immigration Rules. ‘Appendix Temporary Work – Seasonal Worker’ of the Rules sets out the different requirements for this visa.

There are two different types of Seasonal Worker visa in the UK: one for working within the UK’s horticulture sector and one for working within the UK’s poultry production sector. The most common roles under this visa are related to fruit and vegetable picking, packing, and processing, as well as other farm-related tasks.

The Seasonal Worker route is subject to an annual quota, which for 2024 is 47,000 visas, divided between the horticulture sector and the poultry production sector. There are 45,000 visas for the horticulture sector and 2,000 for poultry production.

The Seasonal Worker visa has become business-critical for UK industries that rely on seasonal workers to meet production needs during peak periods, ensuring that these businesses can continue to operate and meet market demand. It is, however, only available to employers that are approved scheme operators with a valid sponsor licence for the Seasonal Worker route.

Importantly, this visa is temporary and does not provide a pathway to permanent residency or long-term employment in the UK. Workers are expected to return to their home countries once their visa expires, and they may reapply for a new visa in subsequent seasons if they meet the eligibility requirements.

 

1. Seasonal Worker Visa for the Horticulture Sector

 

The Seasonal Worker visa in the UK’s horticulture sector is for overseas nationals aged 18 or over to come to the UK for up to 6 months to work, for example, picking flowers or fruit and vegetables. There is no set timeframe within which migrants can come to work for their UK sponsors, where individuals can apply and travel to come to the UK any time of the year.

The type of work that can be undertaken in the horticulture sector includes roles relating to:

 

a. Protected vegetables grown in glasshouse systems

b. Field vegetables grown outdoors, including vegetables, herbs, leafy salads and potatoes

c. Soft fruit grown both outdoors or under cover, including strawberries, raspberries, blackcurrants, blueberries, and all rabes and rubus species

d. Top fruit or orchard fruit, such as apples, plums, cherries or apricots

e. Vine and bines, such as grapes and hops

f. Different types of mushroom species, typically grown indoors

g. Bulbs and cut flowers, such as daffodils, grown both indoors and outdoors

h. Seasonal bedding and pot plants, such as pansies, violas, geraniums and poinsettias

i. Hardy nursery stock, like Christmas trees, shrubs, roses, ornamental trees and perennials

j. Other types of trees and forest nurseries

 

2. Seasonal Worker Visa for the Poultry Production Sector

 

The Seasonal Worker visa in the UK’s poultry production sector is for overseas nationals aged 18 or over to work in the UK as a poultry seasonal worker, but only between 2 October and 31 December of the same year. These dates represent the busy and peak periods in the poultry production sector, during and over Christmas.

Those looking to come to the UK as a poultry seasonal worker would need to make their application by 15 November of that year.

The type of work that can be undertaken in the poultry production sector includes:

 

a. Butcher (occupation code 5431)

b. Bird/game dresser (occupation code 5433)

c. Killer and plucker (occupation code 5433)

d. Plucker (occupation code 5433)

e. Poulterer (occupation code 5433)

f. Poultry processor (occupation code 5433)

g. Poultry sticker (occupation code 5433)

h. Trusser (occupation code 5433)

i. Food operative (occupation code 8111)

j. Poultry catcher/handler (occupation code 9111)

k. Poultry vaccinator (occupation code 9119)

l. Poultry meat packer (occupation code 9132 – for CoS assigned before 4 April 2024, the equivalent SOC 2010 occupation code is 9134)

 

Section B: Eligibility Criteria for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa

 

Strict eligibility criteria apply for Seasonal Worker visa applicants and employers.

 

1. Employer Requirements

 

The employer must be licensed by the UK Home Office to sponsor seasonal workers under this visa category.

This means the employer must be an A-rated approved scheme operator within either the UK’s horticultural or poultry production sector with:

 

a. An endorsement from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to be an approved scheme operator on the Seasonal Worker route and

b. A licence from the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority.

The role must also pay at least the UK minimum wage and comply with UK visa rules in relation to working hours. If these regulations are not met, the visa application will be refused.

 

2. Seasonal Worker Requirements

 

To obtain a Seasonal Worker visa, the applicant must be aged 18 or over. There is no upper age limit specified for this visa, but applicants should be physically capable of performing the tasks required in their job role, which can often be demanding.

Applicants will need to have been assigned a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) by their employer for a role that qualifies under the visa conditions.

The CoS must confirm certain information, including the applicant’s personal information, that they are being sponsored as a Seasonal Worker, as well as details of their job role, such as its location, start and end dates, weekly hours and salary.

The applicant must also have enough money to support themselves on arrival in the UK. To meet the financial requirement, the applicant must be able to show funds of at least £1,270, where this level of funds must have been held in their bank account for at least 28 days in a row, with day 28 falling within 31 days of applying for a Seasonal Worker visa. Additionally, these funds must be held in accordance with the requirements under Appendix Finance.

It is possible for the applicant’s sponsor to agree to financially support the applicant on their arrival in the UK, although the applicant’s CoS will need to confirm that this is the case by completing the ‘sponsor certifies maintenance’ section under ‘Additional data’.

The UK government requires all visa applicants to pass a character assessment, which includes a criminal background check. This ensures that individuals with a history of serious criminal offences or activities that could pose a risk to the UK’s security or public order are not granted entry. Applicants may need to provide police clearance certificates or other documentation proving their clean criminal record as part of the application process.

 

Table: Eligibility Criteria Overview

Criteria	Requirement	Details
Age Requirement	Minimum age of 18 years	No upper age limit
Nationality	Must be from an eligible country	Check the current list of eligible countries
Job Offer	Must have a valid job offer and Certificate of Sponsorship	From a licensed UK employer
Financial Requirement	Sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay	Not required if employer certifies maintenance
Health Requirement	May need to provide a tuberculosis test certificate	Depends on country of origin
Character Requirement	May need to provide a criminal record certificate	Required for certain jobs and from certain countries

 

Section C: Seasonal Worker Visa Application Process

 

To apply for a Seasonal Worker visa, an application must be made online from outside the UK on the Home Office website.

Applications cannot be made from inside the UK, as it is not possible to switch into this route.

 

1. Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the Seasonal Worker Visa

 

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Before starting the application, ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria, including age, nationality, job offer, and health and character requirements.

 

Step 2: Obtain a Job Offer and Certificate of Sponsorship

Secure a job offer from a licensed UK employer. The employer will provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship, a unique reference number that you’ll need for your visa application.

 

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Gather all the necessary documents, including your passport, CoS, proof of funds (if required), and any additional documents such as health certificates or criminal record checks.

 

Step 4: Complete the Online Visa Application Form

Go to the UK government’s official visa application website and fill out the Seasonal Worker Visa application form. You’ll need to enter your personal details, passport information, CoS number, and information about your job in the UK.

After filling out the form, you will be prompted to pay the application fee. Payment can typically be made online using a debit or credit card.

 

Step 5: Verify Your Identity

As part of the visa application, you will need to prove your identity, either using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app or by attending an appointment at an overseas visa application centre. You will be advised of your options when you make your application.

If you are required to attend a VAC, you will need to enrol your biometric information at this appointment, including a scan of your fingerprints and a photograph of your face. You will also need to take your passport or travel document, as well as any other documents needed in support of your application. Note the centre may need to keep the applicant’s passport and documentation while processing their application.

 

Step 6: Submit Your Application

After verifying your identity and uploading your documents, submit your application online.

 

Step 7: Wait for a Decision

Once your application is submitted, you will need to wait for a decision from the UK Visas and Immigration department. You can track the progress of your application online.

 

2. Required Documents

 

To apply for a Seasonal Worker visa, you will need to provide a number of supporting documents, including a valid passport or other travel document, to prove your identity.

You will need a blank page in your passport or space in your travel document for the visa.

You will also need proof of funds to show that you meet the financial requirement, such as recent bank statements unless your sponsor is prepared to certify maintenance up to the amount of £1270 on your Certificate of Sponsorship.

 

Table: Required Documents for Application

Document	Purpose	Notes
Passport	Identity verification	Must be valid with at least one blank page
Certificate of Sponsorship	Proof of job offer	Provided by licensed UK employer
Proof of Funds	Demonstrate financial ability to support yourself	Not required if employer certifies maintenance
Tuberculosis Test Certificate	Health requirement	Required for applicants from certain countries
Criminal Record Certificate	Character requirement	Required for some jobs and from certain countries
Biometric Information	Identity verification (fingerprints and photo)	Required at a visa application centre

 

In some cases, the caseworker deciding the application may request additional documentation, depending on the circumstances.

For any documents not in English or Welsh, apart from your passport, a certified translation will be needed.

 

3. Seasonal Worker Visa Application Cost

 

The fee for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa application is £298. Payment is required when making the application using the online payment portal.

 

4. Seasonal Worker Visa Processing Time

 

Once you have verified your identity, provided your supporting documents and enrolled any biometric information, it will usually take up to 3 weeks for a decision to be made.

If you are applying for a visa through a visa application centre, you may be able to pay for a faster decision, although this will depend on where you are applying from. You will be advised on the availability of fast-tracked processing when making your application.

 

Table: Application Process Timeline

Step	Description	Estimated Time
Job Offer and CoS Acquisition	Obtain a job offer and Certificate of Sponsorship	1-2 weeks
Gather Required Documents	Collect all necessary documents for the application	1-2 weeks
Online Application Submission	Complete and submit the visa application form online	1-2 days
Biometric Appointment	Provide fingerprints and photo at a visa application center	1 week (depending on availability)
Visa Processing	Wait for UKVI to process your visa application	Approximately 3 weeks
Visa Decision and Passport Collection	Receive visa decision and collect passport/vignette	1-2 days after decision

 

While waiting for a decision, you can track the status of your application online. Once your visa is approved, you will receive a vignette – a visa sticker in your passport – or a digital eVisa, under the UK’s new visa issuance process.

It’s important to apply well in advance of your intended start date in the UK to account for any delays in processing. Once your visa is granted, you can begin making arrangements to travel to the UK and start your seasonal employment.

If you are granted a Seasonal Worker visa, you can enter the UK up to 14 days before your employment start date, as stated on your Certificate of Sponsorship.

 

5. Extending a Seasonal Worker Visa

 

The Seasonal Worker visa cannot be extended.

If working within the horticulture sector, you can stay in the UK for a maximum of 6 months in any 12-month period. If you will be working within the poultry production sector, you can only work between 2 October and 31 December inclusive each year.

A 6-month cooling-off period also usually applies to visa-holders, whereby you will be required to leave the UK and wait for six months to elapse before being eligible to reapply for a Seasonal Worker visa.

 

Section D: Seasonal Workers Rights and Responsibilities

 

Seasonal workers in the UK are entitled to a range of rights and protections designed to ensure fair treatment and safe working conditions during their employment.

 

1. Legal Working Hours

 

Seasonal workers in the UK are subject to the same working hour regulations as other employees under UK employment law. This includes:

 

a. Maximum Working Hours

Workers cannot be required to work more than 48 hours per week on average unless they voluntarily opt-out of this limit. This average is typically calculated over a 17-week period.

 

b. Overtime

Any overtime work must be voluntary and compensated according to the employment contract. Employers cannot force workers to work beyond the agreed hours without proper compensation.

 

c. Rest Breaks

Workers are entitled to a minimum of 20 minutes of rest during any working day that exceeds six hours. There should also be 11 consecutive hours of rest between each working day.

 

d. Weekly Rest Period

Workers are entitled to at least one full day off per week or two full days off per fortnight.

 

2. Workers’ Rights

 

Seasonal workers in the UK are entitled to several key rights that protect their well-being and ensure fair treatment:

 

Table: Worker Rights and Entitlements

Right/Entitlement	Description	Applies to Seasonal Workers?
National Minimum Wage	Minimum hourly wage as set by law	Yes
Paid Holiday Leave	Accrued leave based on hours worked	Yes
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)	Pay during periods of illness	Yes, if eligible
Protection from Discrimination	Legal protection against discrimination in the workplace	Yes
Rest Breaks	Minimum 20-minute break during shifts over 6 hours	Yes

 

a. Minimum Wage

Seasonal workers are entitled to receive at least the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage, depending on their age. As of 2024, the National Living Wage applies to workers aged 23 and over, while the National Minimum Wage applies to those under 23. These rates are reviewed annually by the UK government.

 

b. Safe Working Conditions

Employers are legally required to provide a safe working environment. This includes proper training on the use of equipment, adherence to health and safety regulations, and the provision of necessary personal protective equipment (PPE). Workers should report any unsafe conditions to their employer or a relevant authority.

 

c. Holiday Pay

Seasonal workers in the UK are entitled to the same holiday pay rights as other workers, which is a minimum of 5.6 weeks paid holiday per year. Holiday leave entitlement is calculated based on the duration of their employment and is accrued at a rate of 12.07% of the hours worked, which can be taken as paid time off or paid out at the end of their employment.

It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that seasonal workers receive the correct amount of holiday pay.

 

d. Sick Pay

If a seasonal worker falls ill, they may be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) if they meet certain eligibility criteria, including having worked for the employer for a minimum period and earning above a specific threshold.

 

e. Protection from Discrimination

All workers in the UK are protected from discrimination based on characteristics such as race, gender, religion, or age. Seasonal workers have the right to work in an environment free from harassment and unfair treatment.

 

3. Workers’ Obligations

 

Seasonal workers must comply with the visa conditions, which include:

 

a. Leaving the UK On Visa Expiry

You must leave the UK before your visa expires.

To stay in the UK for longer, you would need to leave the UK and apply for a different visa category. For example, to apply for a Skilled Worker visa, you would need a job offer that meets the minimum skill and salary requirements from an employer licensed to sponsor this category of worker. To explore your options, take expert advice.

 

Table: Comparison of Different UK Work Visas

Visa Type	Duration	Eligible Sectors	Path to Settlement	Dependents Allowed
Seasonal Worker Visa	Up to 6 months	Agriculture, Horticulture	No	No
Skilled Worker Visa	Up to 5 years	Various sectors	Yes	Yes
Youth Mobility Scheme Visa	Up to 2 years	Open (certain countries)	No	No
Temporary Worker Visa (T5)	Up to 12 months	Creative, Religious	No	No

 

b. No Additional Work

Seasonal workers are not allowed to take up permanent employment in the UK under the terms of their visa, nor can they work a second job or a job that is not as described on the Certificate of Sponsorship.

 

c. No Dependants

Seasonal workers cannot be accompanied by family members as dependants; they would need to apply for permission to come to the UK.

 

4. Employer Obligations

 

Employers who hire seasonal workers under the UK Seasonal Worker Visa have specific obligations to ensure that they comply with UK employment laws and immigration regulations:

 

a. Sponsorship Duties

Employers must have a valid license from the UK Home Office to sponsor seasonal workers. This includes issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for each worker, which must detail the job role, duration, and other essential information.

 

b. Fair Employment Terms

Employers must provide a written employment contract that outlines the terms of employment, including pay, working hours, and conditions. This contract must comply with UK employment laws.

 

c. Provision of Accommodation

In many cases, especially in the agricultural sector, employers may provide accommodation for seasonal workers. This accommodation must meet the standards set by local authorities, and the cost must be reasonable, not exceeding the amount permitted by law to be deducted from wages.

 

d. Ensuring Legal Working Conditions

Employers must ensure that workers are not forced to work excessive hours and that they receive appropriate breaks and rest periods. They must also provide a safe working environment and necessary training.

 

e. Compliance with Immigration Laws

Employers must ensure that they do not employ seasonal workers beyond the expiration of their visa. They are also required to report to the UK Home Office if a worker does not turn up for work or if there are any significant changes in the worker’s circumstances.

 

f. Providing Pay Slips

Employers are required to provide workers with pay slips that clearly show their wages, any deductions (such as for accommodation), and the hours worked. This transparency is crucial for ensuring that workers are paid correctly and that they understand their earnings.

 

Section E: Common Pitfalls to Avoid

 

Applying for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa can be a straightforward process if approached with careful preparation and attention to detail. However, even minor mistakes can lead to delays or a refused application. Avoid the following common pitfalls to give your application the best chance of success:

 

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

 

One of the most common reasons for visa application delays or rejections is the submission of incomplete or incorrect documents. Ensure that all required documents are gathered and double-check that they meet the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) standards. For example, make sure your passport is valid and that your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is correctly filled out and matches the details in your application.

To avoid delays, make sure that your application is complete when you submit it. This includes attaching all required documents and ensuring that they meet the necessary standards (e.g., certified translations if your documents are not in English or Welsh).

 

2. Inaccurate or Inconsistent Information

 

Providing inconsistent or inaccurate information on your application form, such as discrepancies between your personal details and those on your supporting documents, can raise red flags and lead to delays or denials. Always cross-check all the information you provide to ensure consistency across all documents.

 

3. Failure to Disclose

 

Be honest and transparent about your employment history, travel history, and any previous visa applications. If there are any unusual circumstances related to your application, such as a previous visa refusal or a change in your personal circumstances, provide a clear and honest explanation. This can help the visa officer understand your situation and reduce the likelihood of rejection due to confusion or misunderstanding. Concealing information or providing false details can have serious consequences, including the refusal of your visa application and potential legal repercussions.

 

4. Missing Deadlines

 

Missing a deadline, such as booking your biometric appointment or submitting additional requested documents, can result in the cancellation of your application. Plan ahead and keep track of all important dates throughout the application process.

Start your application process as soon as you receive your job offer and Certificate of Sponsorship. Applying early allows you to account for any unexpected delays, such as gathering additional documents or scheduling a biometric appointment.

 

Section F: Summary

 

The UK Seasonal Worker Visa is a temporary visa designed to address labour shortages in sectors subject to seasonal surges in demand. It allows foreign nationals to work in the UK primarily in roles such as fruit picking, vegetable harvesting, poultry work, and other farm-related tasks.

While the visa offers a chance to work in the UK, there are key risks and considerations to bear in mind. Applicants must secure a job offer from a licensed UK employer, who will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship. They must also meet specific financial requirements. The visa also does not lead to permanent residency, and workers must return to their home country once the visa expires, limiting long-term opportunities in the UK.

 

Section G: Need Assistance?

 

For expert guidance on the Seasonal Worker visa, contact our UK immigration specialists.

 

Section H: Seasonal Worker Visa FAQs

 

What is the UK Seasonal Worker Visa?
The UK Seasonal Worker Visa is a temporary visa that allows foreign nationals to work in the UK on a temporary basis in specific seasonal occupations, namely in agriculture and horticulture roles.

 

Who is eligible to apply for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa?
To be eligible, you must be at least 18 years old, have a valid job offer from a licensed UK employer, meet health and character requirements, and be a national of a country eligible for this visa.

 

How long can I stay in the UK with a Seasonal Worker Visa?
You can stay in the UK for up to six months under the Seasonal Worker visa if you will be working in horticulture. Poultry workers can stay in the UK between 2 October and 31 December of the same year.

 

Can I extend my Seasonal Worker Visa?
The Seasonal Worker Visa cannot be extended. Once your visa expires, you must leave the UK. If you wish to work in the UK again, you will need to apply for a new visa in a subsequent season.

 

Can I bring my family with me on the Seasonal Worker Visa?
The UK Seasonal Worker Visa does not allow dependents to accompany you. If you have family members who wish to come to the UK, they would need to apply for their own visas separately.

 

Do I need a job offer before applying for the visa?
You must have a valid job offer from a licensed UK employer who is approved to sponsor workers under the Seasonal Worker Visa scheme. This job offer is necessary to obtain your Certificate of Sponsorship, which is required for your visa application.

 

What documents do I need to apply for the Seasonal Worker Visa?
You will need a valid passport, a Certificate of Sponsorship from your UK employer, proof of funds (if required), and possibly health and character certificates, depending on your situation and country of origin.

 

How much does the Seasonal Worker Visa cost?
The Seasonal Worker visa application fee is £298.

 

How long does it take to process the Seasonal Worker Visa?
Processing times can vary, but it generally takes about three weeks after you’ve provided your biometric information and submitted your application. You may opt for priority processing to expedite the decision, if available.

 

What rights do I have as a Seasonal Worker in the UK?
As a seasonal worker, you are entitled to the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage, safe working conditions, and paid holiday leave. Your employer is also obligated to comply with UK employment laws, including providing a written contract and proper accommodation if offered.

 

Can I switch employers while on a Seasonal Worker Visa?
You cannot switch employers under the Seasonal Worker Visa. You are only allowed to work for the employer who provided your Certificate of Sponsorship. If you want to work for a different employer, you would need to apply for a new visa.

 

What happens if my visa application is rejected?
If your visa application is rejected, you will be notified of the reasons and may have the option to request an administrative review or reapply, addressing the issues that led to the rejection. However, this process can vary, so it’s essential to review the refusal notice carefully.

 

Can I reapply for a Seasonal Worker Visa in the future?
You can reapply for a Seasonal Worker Visa in future seasons, provided you meet the eligibility criteria again. Each application is considered independently, so previous visa history will be taken into account but does not automatically disqualify you.

 

What should I do if I have a problem with my employer?
If you encounter any issues with your employer, such as unfair treatment or unsafe working conditions, you can report these to the relevant UK authorities, including the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA). You are protected under UK employment laws, even as a seasonal worker.

 

Section I: Glossary

 

Term	Definition
UK Seasonal Worker Visa	A temporary visa that allows foreign nationals to work in the UK for up to six months in sectors with high seasonal demand, primarily agriculture.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)	A reference number issued by a licensed UK employer, detailing the job offer and necessary for the visa application.
National Minimum Wage	The minimum hourly wage that most workers in the UK are entitled to by law, varying by age.
National Living Wage	A higher minimum wage rate applicable to workers aged 23 and over in the UK.
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)	The UK government department responsible for managing the visa application process and overseeing immigration policies.
Biometric Information	Personal data including fingerprints and a photograph, required as part of the visa application to verify identity.
Sponsorship Licence	A licence that UK employers must obtain from the Home Office to sponsor non-UK workers, including those under the Seasonal Worker Visa scheme.
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)	The minimum amount employers must pay eligible workers when they are off sick for more than four consecutive days, subject to eligibility.
Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA)	A UK authority that protects workers from exploitation, particularly in sectors like agriculture and food processing.
Acas (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service)	A public body providing free and impartial advice on workplace relations and employment law in the UK.
Health and Safety Executive (HSE)	The national body responsible for regulating and enforcing workplace health, safety, and welfare in the UK.
Right to Work	The legal right for individuals to work in the UK, which employers must verify before hiring.
Priority Processing	An optional service allowing visa applicants to pay extra for faster processing of their application.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	A fee that some visa applicants must pay to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during their stay.
Rest Breaks	Legal entitlements for workers to take breaks during work, such as a 20-minute break if the working day exceeds six hours.
Tuberculosis Test Certificate	A health certificate required for visa applicants from certain countries, proving they do not have tuberculosis.
Vignette	A visa sticker placed in the passport, allowing entry into the UK after visa approval.
Sponsor Certifies Maintenance	A section in the Certificate of Sponsorship where the employer confirms they will cover the worker’s costs for the first month in the UK, up to £1,270.
Proof of Funds	Evidence required to show that an applicant has enough money to support themselves in the UK, typically through bank statements.

 

Section J: Additional Resources

 

UK Government – Seasonal Worker Visa Overview
https://www.gov.uk/seasonal-worker-visa
This is the official UK government page that provides comprehensive information about the Seasonal Worker Visa, including eligibility criteria, the application process, and latest updates.

 

UK Visas and Immigration – Apply for a Visa
https://www.gov.uk/apply-uk-visa
The official portal for submitting your UK visa application online. It includes step-by-step guidance on how to complete your application and links to relevant forms.

 

Certificate of Sponsorship Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sponsorship-certificate-for-workers-guidance-for-employers
Detailed guidance on the Certificate of Sponsorship, essential for workers and employers. This document explains how the CoS works and what information it must contain.

 

Acas – Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service
https://www.acas.org.uk/
Acas offers free and impartial advice on UK employment law, workplace rights, and dispute resolution, ensuring that both employers and employees understand their legal obligations.

 

Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority
https://www.gla.gov.uk/
The GLAA is responsible for protecting vulnerable workers and ensuring that labour practices are lawful, especially in sectors like agriculture and food processing.

 

Health and Safety Executive
https://www.hse.gov.uk/
HSE is the UK’s national regulator for workplace health and safety. The site provides resources on how to maintain safe working conditions, which is crucial for seasonal workers in physically demanding roles.

 

National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage Rates
https://www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates
This resource provides the latest information on the UK’s minimum wage rates, ensuring that you know your rights to fair pay while working in the UK.