By Abdullahi Lukman
The UK government has extended its Seasonal Worker Visa Scheme for another five years, ensuring farmers and food producers can continue to hire foreign workers on short-term contracts to address ongoing labor shortages in the agricultural sector.
The decision follows recommendations from the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), highlighting the persistent demand for seasonal labor.
The extended scheme will allocate 45,000 visas in 2025, with 43,000 designated for horticulture roles, such as fruit and vegetable picking, and 2,000 for poultry processing between October 2nd and December 31st.
Workers can stay in the UK for up to six months and must be employed by approved scheme operators.
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Applicants must secure a job offer through an approved agency, be at least 18 years old, provide proof of £1,270 in savings, and understand they cannot bring dependents.
The application process involves obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from an employer, submitting an online application, paying a £264 fee, and attending a biometrics appointment, with decisions typically taking three weeks.
Despite the extension, concerns remain about worker exploitation.
Labor rights groups, including Focus on Labour Exploitation (FLEX), have observed that workers tied to specific employers may struggle to challenge poor conditions or abuse.
The government acknowledges these concerns and emphasizes prioritizing worker welfare. Workers are advised to understand their rights and responsibilities, seek reputable employers, and recognize the visa’s limited six-month validity.
The scheme, introduced post-Brexit, aims to fill labor gaps in agriculture, but workers must remain vigilant about potential challenges.
