The United Kingdom depends heavily on agriculture to supply fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy, and livestock products. Due to labour shortages—especially during planting and harvest seasons—UK farms are actively recruiting foreign workers for farm jobs with visa sponsorship.
For immigrants from Africa, Asia, and other non-EU countries, farm work offers a legal and straightforward pathway to work in the UK, often without a university degree or prior experience. Both seasonal and full-time farm jobs are available, making agriculture one of the most accessible sectors for newcomers.
This guide explains everything you need to know about UK farm jobs with visa sponsorship, including job types, wages, visa options, requirements, and how to apply safely.
Why the UK Is Hiring Foreign Farm Workers
UK agriculture faces persistent labour shortages due to:
- Reduced availability of EU workers after Brexit
- Seasonal peaks requiring large workforces
- Physically demanding outdoor work
- Rural farm locations
To prevent crop losses and ensure food supply, the UK government allows farms to recruit international workers through approved visa routes, especially for seasonal roles.
What Are Farm Jobs in the UK?
Farm jobs involve working outdoors or in agricultural facilities to grow, harvest, and process food products.
Common UK farm job roles include:
- Fruit and Vegetable Picker
- Farm Labourer
- Greenhouse Worker
- Dairy Farm Assistant
- Poultry Farm Worker
- Livestock Assistant
- Packing and Sorting Worker
- Agricultural Operative
Most roles are manual and shift-based, with training provided on the job.
Do UK Farm Jobs Offer Visa Sponsorship?
Yes. Many UK farm jobs offer visa sponsorship, particularly under the Seasonal Worker Visa scheme.
Visa sponsorship is most common for:
- Fruit and vegetable harvesting
- Greenhouse and horticulture work
- Poultry and livestock farming
Some farms also offer longer-term roles that may qualify under other visa routes, depending on the job and employer.
Visa Options for UK Farm Jobs
Seasonal Worker Visa
This is the primary visa used for farm jobs in the UK.
It allows:
- Legal work in UK agriculture
- No degree or experience required
- Employment for up to 6 months
This visa is ideal for short-term farm work but does not lead directly to permanent residence.
Skilled Worker Visa (Limited Cases)
Some specialist agricultural roles may qualify for long-term sponsorship, but this is less common than seasonal work.
Do You Need a Degree or Experience?
Farm jobs are among the most accessible roles in the UK.
Education
No university degree is required. Basic education is sufficient.
Experience
Experience is helpful but not mandatory. Most farms train workers on arrival.
Language
Basic English is required for safety and communication.
Physical Fitness
Applicants must be able to perform physically demanding work outdoors.
Farm Job Salaries in the UK
Farm wages in the UK are regulated by minimum wage laws.
Typical earnings include:
- Seasonal farm workers: £10.42 – £12.50 per hour
- Greenhouse and packing workers: £11 – £13 per hour
- Full-time farm assistants: £22,000 – £26,000 per year
Many farms offer:
- Overtime pay
- Piece-rate bonuses (for picking)
- Free or low-cost accommodation
Who Can Apply for UK Farm Jobs
UK farm jobs with visa sponsorship are open to:
- Applicants from Africa
- Workers from Asia and other regions
- Non-EU nationals
- Job seekers without degrees
- First-time migrants
Applicants must meet age and health requirements set by visa rules.
Best Regions in the UK for Farm Jobs
Farm jobs are available across rural England, Scotland, and Wales.
High-demand regions include:
- Kent
- Lincolnshire
- Norfolk
- Herefordshire
- Cambridgeshire
- Scotland (seasonal harvesting)
These areas host large farms and greenhouse operations.
How to Apply for UK Farm Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Follow these steps carefully.
Step 1: Find Approved Farm Employers
Only licensed operators can sponsor seasonal farm visas.
Step 2: Prepare a Simple CV
Your CV should highlight:
- Physical fitness
- Willingness to work outdoors
- Availability for seasonal work
- Reliability
Step 3: Apply Online
Look for job listings that mention:
- Seasonal Worker Visa
- Visa sponsorship provided
- Farm or agricultural roles
Step 4: Attend Interviews
Interviews are usually short and focus on availability and physical readiness.
Step 5: Visa Application
Once selected, the employer provides sponsorship documents for your visa.
Cost of Moving to the UK for Farm Work
You should budget for:
- Visa application fees
- Travel expenses
- Initial food and personal costs
Many farms provide accommodation, reducing expenses significantly.
Can Farm Workers Bring Family to the UK?
Seasonal farm visas do not allow dependents. Workers must travel alone.
Worker Rights and Protections
Farm workers in the UK are protected by employment laws, including:
- Minimum wage guarantees
- Rest breaks
- Safe working conditions
- Protection against exploitation
Employers must follow UK labour standards.
Common Scams to Avoid
Avoid anyone who:
- Promises guaranteed farm visas
- Requests large upfront fees
- Offers fake farm contracts
- Claims sponsorship without proof
Only apply through verified employers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience for UK farm jobs?
No. Training is usually provided.
Are farm jobs permanent?
Most are seasonal, but repeat work is common.
Can farm jobs lead to other UK jobs?
Some workers later secure other sponsored roles after gaining UK experience.
Final Thoughts
UK farm jobs with visa sponsorship—both seasonal and full-time—offer one of the easiest legal pathways for foreigners to work in the United Kingdom. With low entry requirements, steady demand, and accommodation support, agriculture remains a strong option for immigrants seeking short-term or repeat UK work.
With proper preparation and legitimate applications, you can secure a farm job, work legally in the UK, and gain valuable international experience.