Fruit Picking Jobs in UK with visa Sponsorship

Ever dreamed of working in the picturesque countryside of the United Kingdom? Urgent fruit-picking jobs offer a unique and accessible pathway to live and work in UK, with the crucial benefit of visa sponsorship. As British farms face seasonal labor shortages, they are actively recruiting international workers to harvest apples, strawberries, and cherries.

This is your chance to earn a competitive wage of £10 to £15 per hour while experiencing rural British life. With benefits like free accommodation and the straightforward Seasonal Worker Visa, this is more than a job; it’s an adventure and a perfect starting point for your UK journey.

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Why the Demand for Fruit Pickers?

Several key factors drive the urgent need for seasonal agricultural workers:

• Post-Brexit Labour Gap: The end of free movement from the EU significantly reduced the pool of seasonal workers who traditionally supported the harvest.
• labor.Seasonal Peaks: The harvest for soft fruits (like strawberries and raspberries) and orchard fruits (like apples) is intense and short, creating a sudden, high demand for labor.
• Government Visa Scheme: The UK government’s Seasonal Worker Visa is specifically designed to address this shortage, allowing approved farms to sponsor workers for up to 6 months.

Read Also: Grapes Picker Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship 

Types of Roles Available

The work is primarily hands-on and physically demanding. Common roles include:

• Fruit Picker/Harvester: The most common role, involving harvesting fruits like strawberries, raspberries, apples, cherries, and blueberries directly from plants or trees.
• Packer/Sorter: Working in packhouses, sorting, grading, and packaging fruit for distribution to supermarkets.
• Field Preparator: Assisting with tasks like planting, weeding, and maintaining crops before and after the main harvest.

Pay, Hours & Benefits: Setting Realistic Expectations

It’s crucial to understand the payment structure and conditions.

• Payment Structure: Pay is often a combination of:
  • Minimum Hourly Wage: You are legally entitled to at least the National Minimum Wage (currently £11.44/hour for those 21 and over).
  • Piece Rate: Many farms offer payment based on the amount you pick (e.g., per kilo or punnet). Under this system, faster and more efficient workers can earn more.
• Typical Earnings: During peak season, a hard-working individual can expect to earn between £350 – £600 per week, depending on the crop, weather, and their speed.
• Common Benefits:
  • Accommodation: Many employers provide accommodation, but this is often deducted from your pay (typically £50-£90/week).
  • Transport: Employers often provide transport between the accommodation and the farms.

Eligibility & Requirements

To qualify, you generally need to:

• Hold a valid passport from an eligible country.
• Be 18 or Over.
• Have a Certificate of Sponsorship from an approved UK employer.
• Prove Sufficient Funds to support yourself upon arrival (usually £1,270).
• Be Physically Fit: The work involves long hours of bending, standing, and lifting, often in all weather conditions.
• Have Basic English (helpful for safety and instructions, but not formally tested for the visa).

The Visa: The Seasonal Worker Visa

This is the only dedicated visa for this type of work.

• Key Features:
  • Allows you to stay in the UK for up to 6 months to do seasonal farm work.
  • You must be sponsored by a government-approved scheme operator (a licensed recruitment agency or farm).
  • You cannot bring family dependents on this visa.
  • You cannot take a permanent job or do work outside of your sponsored role.

How to Apply For Fruit Picking Jobs in UK

You cannot apply for the visa first; you must secure the job offer and sponsorship.

1. Find a Licensed Scheme Operator: This is the most critical step. You must apply through a UKVI-licensed sponsor. Major operators include:
   • Concordia
   • Pro-Force
   • AG Recruitment
   • HOPS Labour Solutions
2. Apply Directly to These Operators: Visit their official websites, check for vacancies, and submit your application directly to them. Avoid any third-party “agents” who charge fees.
3. Interview & Job Offer: If selected, you’ll have an interview (often online). Upon success, the operator will issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship.
4. Apply for the Visa: Use the Certificate of Sponsorship reference number to complete your online visa application on the official UK Government website (GOV.UK).
5. Travel to the UK: Once your visa is granted, you can travel to the UK and start work.

Important Considerations & Tips

• It’s Hard Work: The job is physically demanding and highly dependent on the weather. Be prepared for early starts and long days.
• Research the Operator: Only use official, licensed scheme operators. Check the UK government’s website for the most current list.
• Understand the Contract: Before accepting, be clear on the pay structure, accommodation costs, and any other deductions.
• Pack Appropriately: Bring waterproof clothing, sturdy boots, warm layers, and gloves. The British weather is unpredictable.

Conclusion

Fruit picking jobs in the UK represent a fantastic short-term opportunity for individuals seeking a cultural work experience and a straightforward entry into the country. The combination of the dedicated Seasonal Worker Visa, no formal experience requirements, and the support provided by farms makes this one of the most accessible sponsored work options available.

While the work is physically demanding, the reward is a unique chance to fund your stay while exploring the UK’s beautiful countryside. For those looking for a practical, visa-sponsored job to start their British adventure, the harvest is waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions