If you’re searching for stable, well-paying work abroad that doesn’t require a university degree, UK farm worker and seasonal jobs offer one of the most accessible entry routes. These positions not only provide visa sponsorship but also competitive hourly wages between £14 and £17+, with some employers offering free or low-cost accommodation.
In 2025, the UK government continues to support foreign recruitment to fill crucial labour shortages in agriculture. Whether you’re looking for short-term seasonal employment or a permanent farm career, there are multiple legal pathways to work and earn in the country.
Overview of UK Farm Work Opportunities (2025 Update)
The UK farming industry remains a vital pillar of the national economy, employing over 300,000 people annually. However, due to an ageing workforce and the effects of Brexit, many farms face persistent labour shortages, particularly in fruit picking, crop harvesting, livestock management, and horticulture.
To address this, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and the Home Office have expanded visa sponsorship opportunities for overseas workers through recognized recruitment schemes and licensed employers.
This means international applicants even without prior UK experience can now find legitimate, government-backed employment across farms in England, Scotland, and Wales.
Types of Farm Jobs: Seasonal vs Permanent Employment
1. Seasonal Farm Jobs
Seasonal farm jobs are temporary positions that run during peak harvest or planting periods
Fruit and vegetable picking
- Greenhouse or polytunnel work
- Poultry and horticulture roles
- Packhouse and sorting jobs
These jobs often provide:
- Visa sponsorship (Seasonal Worker Visa)
- Free or subsidized housing
- Guaranteed minimum pay per hour
- Piece-rate bonuses based on productivity
2. Permanent Farm Employment
Permanent farm work involves long-term positions such as:
- Machinery operators
- Livestock or dairy farm assistants
- Farm supervisors and field managers
- Tractor drivers or equipment maintenance staff
Such roles typically qualify under the Skilled Worker Visa, allowing workers to remain in the UK for several years, extend their visa, and even apply for permanent residency later.
Visa Sponsorship Options Explained
Working on a UK farm legally requires a visa. The two primary options for foreign applicants are:
1. Seasonal Worker Visa (Temporary)
This visa allows you to:
- Work in the UK for up to 6 months in farm-related jobs.
- Be sponsored by a licensed employer or recruitment agency (e.g., Concordia, Pro-Force, Fruitful Jobs).
- Apply from outside the UK with minimal documentation.
Requirements:
- Age 18 or above
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer
- Valid passport
- Proof of sufficient funds (£1,270, unless covered by sponsor)
2. Skilled Worker Visa (Permanent/Long-Term)
For applicants aiming for longer-term agricultural employment, such as supervisors or machinery operators, this visa allows:
- Stay up to 5 years with the possibility of renewal or settlement.
- Sponsorship by an employer licensed under the Skilled Worker category.
- Eligibility to bring family members under certain conditions.
Requirements:
- Job offer from a licensed sponsor
- Role meeting salary threshold (usually above £26,200/year)
- English language proficiency
- Certificate of Sponsorship and proof of funds
Average Salaries & Benefits (2025 Data)
| Position | Hourly Pay (£) | Annual Equivalent (Est.) | Common Benefits |
| Fruit / Vegetable Picker | 14 – 15.50 | £28,000 – £31,000 | Free accommodation, transport |
| Farm Labourer / General Worker | 14.50 – 16.00 | £29,000 – £33,000 | Meals, housing, overtime pay |
| Livestock / Dairy Assistant | 15.00 – 16.50 | £30,000 – £34,000 | Long-term contracts |
| Machinery / Tractor Operator | 16.00 – 17.50+ | £32,000 – £36,000+ | Visa sponsorship, training |
| Farm Supervisor / Lead | 17.00 – 19.00 | £34,000 – £38,000+ | Family visa options |
Requirements and Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for UK farm jobs with visa sponsorship, applicants must:
- Be 18 years or older.
- Hold a valid international passport.
- Have a Certificate of Sponsorship (from a licensed UK employer).
- Prove basic English communication skills (for long-term visas).
- Provide proof of funds or a letter from the employer covering initial costs.
- Show willingness to work long hours outdoors, sometimes in changing weather.
Optional but advantageous:
- Previous farming or manual labour experience
- Tractor or machinery certification
- Clean criminal record
Top UK Farms and Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship
Several UK farms and recruiters actively hire international applicants under approved visa routes:
- Concordia UK Ltd – Government-approved scheme operator offering seasonal placements.
- AG Recruitment & Management Ltd – Works with large fruit and vegetable farms across England.
- Pro-Force Ltd – One of the biggest labour providers in the agricultural sector.
- HOPS Labour Solutions – Licensed to recruit workers for horticultural farms and greenhouses.
- Recruit4Staff – Connects skilled operators and permanent farm staff to sponsor employers.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for UK Farm Jobs from Abroad
- Research verified employers on GOV.UK’s Licensed Sponsor List.
- Prepare your CV — highlight experience in agriculture, farming, or manual labour.
- Apply directly through the company’s website or email HR departments.
- Attend online interviews or video screening (some employers require this).
- Once selected, receive your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- Apply for your visa online via the UK Government portal.
- Book travel and accommodation after receiving your visa.
Conclusion
With thousands of vacancies every year, UK farm and seasonal jobs provide one of the best entry opportunities for international job seekers — especially those seeking visa sponsorship and stable pay.
Whether you want short-term seasonal experience or long-term career growth in agriculture, 2025 offers a wide range of legal, rewarding opportunities across the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do UK farms really sponsor foreign workers?
Yes. Many UK farms are government-approved sponsors under the Seasonal Worker or Skilled Worker visa routes.
2. How long can I stay on a Seasonal Worker Visa?
Up to 6 months per visit. You can reapply for new seasons once your previous visa expires.
3. Can I bring my family with me?
Family visas are only available under the Skilled Worker Visa, not the seasonal category.
4. Are accommodation and food included?
Some farms offer free or subsidized accommodation and meals. Confirm details before accepting an offer.
5. How much can I expect to earn monthly?
At £14–£17/hr and a 40-hour week, you can earn between £2,400–£2,900 per month, excluding overtime or bonuses.
6. When is the best time to apply?
Applications typically open between January and April, ahead of the main harvest season.