Old MAC Calls for Flexible Visa Scheme to Safeguard UK Food Security and Farmers

By UK Visas on Aug 6, 2024

The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has recommended that the UK Government continue issuing visas to seasonal workers and improve the flexibility of the Seasonal Worker Scheme (SWS). The committee's recent report underscores the crucial role of migrant workers in the agricultural industry, particularly in tasks like fruit picking. By supporting the issuance of visas and enhancing the flexibility of the Seasonal Worker Scheme, the UK Government can ensure food security and foster growth in the agricultural sector.

The MAC's report stresses the significance of a balanced approach, which involves ongoing support for seasonal migrant labour and the adoption of technological advancements to promote the long-term sustainability and productivity of the UK's agricultural sector. Through full implementation of these recommendations, the UK can not only guarantee the future of food production but also safeguard the rights and well-being of the workers who are essential to this industry.

The Seasonal Worker Visa is a special UK visa that permits people to work temporarily in the UK in specific industries. To apply, individuals need a sponsor and must fulfil all other necessary criteria.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be 18 or over when applying.
• Must have a certificate of sponsorship from a Home Office-approved sponsor.
• Plan to work in an eligible horticulture or poultry production job in the UK.
• Have at least £1,270 in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days within the 31 days prior to the date of application

Seasonal Worker Visa Eligible Roles

To qualify for a Temporary Work- – Seasonal Worker Visa within the horticulture sector or poultry production sector, your proposed role must be eligible.

Employer's Requirements

Employers must be valid scheme operators endorsed by DEFRA and licensed by the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority. They must also provide a safe work environment, fair treatment, employment contracts in both the worker’s first language and English and proper payment in accordance with National Minimum Wage regulations.

Temporary Work – Seasonal Worker Visa Application Fees and Fee Reduction

The Home Office application fee for a Temporary Work–Seasonal Worker Visa application is currently £298.

Frequently Asked Questions

Currently, only horticulture and poultry production workers are eligible to apply for a seasonal worker visa.

You will be able to enter and remain in the UK for the period of the job on your Certificate of Sponsorship.

The earliest you can apply for a Temporary Work – Seasonal Worker Visa is 3 months before the date on which you are due to start work. This can be found on your Certificate of Sponsorship.
You should receive a decision on your Seasonal Worker Visa application within 3 weeks.

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We offer extensive services for UK businesses planning to employ talent from outside of the UK and for individuals including families and students who wish to visit, work or reside in the United Kingdom.

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