Farm worker jobs in the UK are one of the easiest legal ways to work abroad, especially for overseas applicants who do not have a degree. Every year, the UK hires thousands of foreign workers for agriculture under the Seasonal Worker Visa due to labour shortages.
This guide explains job roles, visa details, eligibility, salary, and how to apply in clear and simple English.
What Are Farm Worker Jobs in the UK?
Farm workers help with agricultural activities, mainly during peak seasons. These jobs are temporary but legal, and training is usually provided.
Common Farm Job Roles
-
Fruit and vegetable picking
-
Packing and sorting produce
-
Planting and harvesting crops
-
Greenhouse work
-
Farm general labour
-
Quality checking and grading
These jobs are physically active but do not require formal education.
UK Seasonal Worker Visa – Overview
The UK Seasonal Worker Visa allows overseas workers to work on UK farms for a limited time.
Key Points
-
Visa duration: Up to 6 months
-
Job sector: Agriculture & horticulture
-
Sponsor required: Yes (licensed sponsor)
-
Degree required: No
-
IELTS required: No
-
Age limit: Usually 18+
This visa is fully legal and government-approved.
Who Can Apply for UK Farm Worker Jobs?
Farm worker jobs are suitable for:
-
Overseas applicants
-
Non-degree holders
-
Students (gap year workers)
-
First-time international workers
-
Physically fit men and women
Previous farm experience is helpful but not compulsory.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for farm worker jobs in the UK with a seasonal work visa, you need:
✔ Valid passport
✔ Job offer from a licensed UK farm sponsor
✔ Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
✔ Ability to do physical outdoor work
✔ Basic English understanding
✔ Medical fitness
No formal education or professional experience is required.
Salary and Working Hours (2026)
Average Pay
-
£10.50 – £12.50 per hour
-
Paid weekly or bi-weekly
Working Hours
-
32–48 hours per week
-
Overtime available during peak season
Other Benefits
-
Legal minimum wage protection
-
Paid work experience
-
Some employers provide accommodation (paid or subsidised)
Earnings depend on hours worked and crop season.
Working Conditions
Farm work involves:
-
Outdoor work in different weather
-
Standing, bending, lifting
-
Team-based tasks
-
Early morning shifts
Workers must follow UK safety and farm rules.
How to Apply for Farm Worker Jobs in the UK
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Prepare Simple CV
-
Short CV
-
Mention physical work or farm experience if any
Step 2: Apply to Licensed Sponsors
-
Only apply to UK government-approved sponsors
Step 3: Interview / Selection
-
Usually online or phone-based
Step 4: Receive Job Offer
-
Employer issues Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Step 5: Apply for Seasonal Worker Visa
-
Submit visa application using CoS
Step 6: Travel to the UK
-
Start work after visa approval
⚠ Never pay money to fake agents for job guarantees.
Important Rules to Remember
✔ Visa is temporary (no permanent settlement)
✔ You cannot switch jobs freely
✔ You must work only for your sponsor
✔ Overstaying is illegal
✔ Follow UK employment laws
Advantages of UK Farm Worker Jobs
-
Legal overseas work without degree
-
No IELTS required
-
Quick visa processing
-
Good income in short time
-
International work experience
-
Safe and regulated work environment
Challenges You Should Know
-
Physically demanding work
-
Seasonal and temporary nature
-
Weather-dependent tasks
-
Limited long-term options
Understanding these realities helps avoid false expectations.
Final Words
Farm worker jobs in the UK with a seasonal work visa are a genuine and legal opportunity for overseas applicants in 2026, especially for those who want international work exposure without complicated qualifications. These jobs are honest, labour-based roles that offer fair wages under UK law and help thousands of workers earn and support their families.
If you are physically fit, disciplined, and ready for hard work, this visa can be a good starting point for overseas employment experience. While it does not lead directly to permanent residence, it gives you confidence, income, and global exposure that can help in future opportunities.
Always follow the legal route, apply only through licensed sponsors, and avoid shortcuts. With the right preparation and mindset, UK farm work can be a safe and rewarding short-term work option
Disclaimer
This job information is shared for educational and informational purposes only.
Any discussion of visa categories is based on general immigration laws and publicly available information.