The UK government has announced plans to issue 45,000 seasonal worker visas in 2025, with 43,000 designated for horticulture and 2,000 for poultry, aimed at addressing labor shortages in these sectors.

According to an October update on the UK immigration website, the Seasonal Worker visa program will continue in 2025 to support the agricultural and poultry industries.

The government emphasized its commitment to these sectors, specifying that 43,000 visas are allocated for horticulture and 2,000 for poultry next year.

The horticulture visas cover tasks such as fruit and vegetable picking and flower cultivation, while the poultry visas support seasonal processing work from October to December.

Food Security Minister Daniel Zeichner highlighted the initiative’s importance, stating, “This government recognises that food security is national security, and this can only be achieved by supporting food and farming businesses.

“Confirming the seasonal worker visa allocation for 2025 gives growers and producers certainty, allowing them to plan ahead and secure the labour they need to grow and thrive.

“This package of measures will also support farmers by protecting our poultry producers from the impact of avian flu outbreaks and ensuring fairness in the sheep supply chain.”

The Seasonal Worker visa scheme provides a temporary workforce for essential food production roles.

To qualify, applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a valid sponsorship from a licensed UK employer, and meet health and safety standards.

They must also demonstrate sufficient funds for their stay and secure health insurance.

Visa holders are required to return home after their employment ends, as visa conversion is not allowed.

Horticultural roles involve planting, pruning, weeding, harvesting, and packing, while poultry roles include bird care, egg collection, and processing.

Interested applicants must first secure a sponsorship certificate from a licensed UK employer and then complete their visa application through the UK’s online portal.

Applications for poultry positions close on November 15 each year, while horticulture applications are accepted year-round.