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UK Visa Sponsorship Jobs for Farmworkers – £30,000/year -Apply Now

The agricultural sector in the United Kingdom has become one of the most essential industries, not only for ensuring food security but also for creating stable employment opportunities for both local and foreign workers. In 2025, the demand for skilled and unskilled farmworkers is higher than ever before, with many employers willing to offer visa sponsorship jobs to attract dedicated immigrants.

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Farmworkers are the backbone of farming activities such as planting, harvesting, livestock handling, and maintaining the day-to-day operations of farms. For individuals from countries outside the UK, this represents a life-changing chance to secure permanent work while earning up to £30,000 per year.

Employers across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland face a shortfall of labor due to an aging workforce and declining numbers of domestic applicants. This situation has created opportunities for immigrants to apply for farm jobs with visa sponsorship, ensuring they can legally live and work in the UK.

The UK government has recognized the importance of international workers in the farming sector, introducing structured visa routes to support both employers and employees.

The farming industry in the UK covers multiple areas, from fruit picking and vegetable harvesting to dairy production and animal care. Each of these roles requires individuals who are committed, adaptable, and physically fit.

The positions are open to people with or without previous agricultural experience, making them particularly suitable for immigrants who are seeking entry-level jobs but still want competitive pay.

To put the potential into perspective, farmworkers under visa sponsorship schemes can expect stable income, legal residency benefits, and in many cases, access to housing and transportation support. Employers often provide additional perks, including training, overtime pay, and opportunities for career growth within agriculture.

With average salaries ranging from £22,000 to £30,000 annually, combined with accommodation benefits worth approximately £5,000 per year, the real value of these jobs is far higher than the advertised base wage.

For any immigrant seeking to establish a secure financial future, UK farm jobs with visa sponsorship in 2025 are one of the most reliable and rewarding options. Beyond the financial aspects, farmworkers gain long-term stability, pathways to settlement, and the satisfaction of contributing to one of the most critical industries in the UK.

Entry-level Skills and Experience Required

One of the most attractive aspects of farm jobs in the UK is that they often do not demand extensive formal education. Many farmworkers begin at entry-level positions, and employers are more concerned with reliability, physical stamina, and a willingness to learn.

However, having basic agricultural knowledge or previous farming experience can give applicants a competitive edge. Most employers hiring immigrants under UK farmworker visa sponsorship schemes typically require:

  • Ability to handle physically demanding tasks such as lifting, bending, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Basic English communication skills to follow instructions and interact with supervisors.
  • A clean criminal record to meet the UK Home Office visa requirements.
  • Adaptability to shift work, as farming activities often depend on seasonal changes and harvest schedules.
  • Teamwork skills, since farmworkers usually work in groups to meet production targets.

For specific roles such as tractor driving, irrigation system management, or livestock care, some employers might request additional certifications or prior experience.

For instance, candidates with animal husbandry skills can earn higher wages, averaging £28,000 per year, compared to entry-level crop pickers who may start at £22,000 annually.

It is important to note that employers often provide on-the-job training, making these positions ideal for immigrants who want to gain new skills while earning a decent income. Training programs can cover safe equipment handling, pesticide use, or modern greenhouse farming techniques.

Foreign workers also benefit from structured career growth in this sector. Many farmworkers who initially join as fruit pickers eventually progress to supervisory positions or even farm management roles, earning well above £35,000 per year.

Therefore, even though entry-level requirements are minimal, individuals with the ambition to grow will find long-term opportunities.

In essence, the farming industry is looking for dedicated workers rather than academic degrees. Immigrants who are committed, hardworking, and reliable will always be welcomed by UK employers, especially under government-backed visa sponsorship arrangements.

Regions with the Highest Payment Structures

The UK agricultural sector offers different pay scales depending on the region, type of farm, and the season. Immigrants considering farm jobs with visa sponsorship should be aware of regional variations in salaries and living costs.

In England, the East of England region, which includes Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk, has some of the highest-paying farmworker roles. This is because the area is home to large-scale farms specializing in vegetable and grain production.

Workers in this region can earn between £27,000 and £30,000 per year, especially during peak harvest seasons. Employers here often add accommodation packages, effectively pushing the total compensation to over £33,000 annually.

In Scotland, agricultural jobs are equally rewarding, particularly in the Aberdeenshire and Highlands regions, where livestock farming dominates. Farmworkers handling cattle, sheep, and dairy operations typically earn £26,000 to £29,000 per year, with housing often provided due to the remote nature of farms.

Since living costs in rural Scotland are lower than in urban cities, the net income savings for workers are significantly higher.

Wales also provides attractive options for immigrants. In South Wales, farms engaged in fruit production offer seasonal roles with salaries ranging from £23,000 to £26,000 per year. While these roles may appear slightly lower-paying, many employers include meal subsidies and shared accommodation, which reduces expenses by approximately £3,000 annually.

Northern Ireland, though smaller in scale, has a growing demand for farmworkers, especially in dairy production. Employers here offer an average salary of £25,000 annually, with many also including transport support. To break it down more clearly, here is a summary in plain text:

  • East of England: £27,000 – £30,000 annually.
  • Scotland (Aberdeenshire & Highlands): £26,000 – £29,000 annually.
  • Wales (South Wales farms): £23,000 – £26,000 annually.
  • Northern Ireland: £25,000 annually.

This regional variation gives immigrants flexibility in choosing where to work depending on personal preferences, whether they prioritize higher pay, lower living costs, or family-friendly communities.

Salary Expectations for Farmworkers

Farmworkers in the UK under visa sponsorship schemes can expect competitive salaries that reflect both the physical demands of the role and the importance of the agricultural sector. Salaries vary based on experience, skill level, and the region, but most positions offer stability and opportunities for additional earnings through overtime.

At entry-level, farmworkers earn around £22,000 to £24,000 per year, which equates to approximately £1,800 to £2,000 per month before tax. As workers gain experience and take on more responsibilities, salaries increase significantly.

For example, skilled farmhands who operate machinery or specialize in animal care often earn between £28,000 and £30,000 annually. Seasonal workers can also benefit from overtime during harvest periods.

Many farms offer hourly rates of £10.50 to £12.50, and overtime rates can push weekly earnings above £600, especially during peak agricultural months from June to September.

Over the course of a year, this adds thousands of pounds to the base salary. Another key factor to consider is employer-provided benefits. Many farms include:

  • Free or subsidized housing, worth between £3,000 and £5,000 per year.
  • Transportation allowances or company vehicles, valued at about £2,000 annually.
  • Free meals during working shifts, which saves an estimated £1,500 yearly.

When these benefits are factored in, a farmworker earning £24,000 annually can realistically enjoy a total compensation package equivalent to £30,000 or more.

The UK government also ensures farmworkers are paid fairly by setting the Agricultural Minimum Wage, which is reviewed annually. This protects foreign workers from exploitation and ensures that salaries remain competitive compared to other industries.

Looking at long-term prospects, farmworkers who remain committed can progress into supervisory or managerial roles. Supervisors typically earn between £32,000 and £36,000 per year, while farm managers can reach salaries of £40,000 annually. This makes agricultural work not just a short-term option but also a long-term career pathway for immigrants seeking stability in the UK.

Companies Hiring Farmworkers in the UK

Across the United Kingdom, multiple agricultural employers actively recruit foreign workers under visa sponsorship schemes. These employers range from small family-owned farms to large commercial farming corporations.

As an immigrant seeking farmworker jobs in the UK, knowing which companies have a track record of sponsoring visas will make your application process faster and more reliable. Some of the leading companies and farms include:

  • G’s Fresh: Based in Cambridgeshire, this is one of the largest salad and vegetable producers in the UK. G’s Fresh hires hundreds of seasonal and permanent farmworkers every year, with salaries ranging from £23,000 to £28,000 annually.
  • Hall Hunter Partnership: Specializing in soft fruit production such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, this company employs thousands of workers annually. Wages for fruit pickers here average £24,000 per year, with potential overtime that can increase earnings to £28,000 annually.
  • Faccenda Foods: A major player in poultry farming, this company regularly recruits workers for animal handling, processing, and farm maintenance. Salaries range between £25,000 and £29,000 annually, with housing allowances included.
  • JF Cobb & Sons: A dairy farm company located in Dorset, providing stable long-term employment for immigrants skilled in cattle care and milking. Workers here often earn between £27,000 and £30,000 annually.
  • Concordia UK Ltd: Unlike a traditional farm, this organization partners with multiple farms across the country to place immigrant workers. It acts as a link between workers and employers, making it easier for foreign applicants to secure UK farm jobs with visa sponsorship.

Aside from these well-known names, many medium-sized farms across Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland actively participate in visa sponsorship programs. In Scotland’s Aberdeenshire, for instance, livestock farms are constantly recruiting due to labor shortages, while Welsh fruit farms seek seasonal workers every summer.

Employers usually prefer workers who demonstrate reliability, flexibility, and an ability to adapt to the farm’s schedule. For immigrants, these companies provide one of the most straightforward entry routes into the UK labor market, especially since visa sponsorship ensures legal work status.

With structured recruitment drives and government-backed visa support, these employers play a crucial role in connecting skilled and unskilled workers from abroad with much-needed farming opportunities in the UK.

Visa Types and Options for Farmworkers

Understanding the visa options available is essential for any immigrant planning to work as a farmworker in the UK. The UK government has designed specific visa categories to support the agricultural industry while protecting the rights of foreign workers. The main visas suitable for farmworkers include:

Seasonal Worker Visa

The Seasonal Worker visa is the most common route for immigrants applying for temporary farm jobs in the UK. This visa allows individuals to work in horticulture, including fruit picking and vegetable harvesting, for up to 6 months.

Salaries for seasonal workers average £22,000 to £25,000 annually, depending on hours worked. The visa requires a Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed employer such as Concordia UK Ltd or Pro-Force Ltd.

Skilled Worker Visa

For long-term farm roles, particularly in livestock farming or specialized agricultural positions, the Skilled Worker visa is more suitable. This visa permits employment for up to 5 years, with the possibility of extension or permanent settlement.

Employers sponsoring this visa must be approved by the Home Office. Farmworkers under this category usually earn between £26,000 and £30,000 annually.

Temporary Work Visa (T5)

The T5 visa is designed for short-term contracts, including certain agricultural roles. While less common than the Seasonal Worker visa, it is still an option for specific employers offering limited-term employment. Wages here are similar, averaging £22,000 annually, with additional benefits like housing.

Family and Settlement Pathways

One of the greatest advantages of visa sponsorship jobs is the pathway to permanent residency. Immigrants who work in the UK for several years under a Skilled Worker visa can eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

This grants them the right to stay permanently, open opportunities for their families, and access benefits such as healthcare and education. To summarize in plain numbers:

  • Seasonal Worker Visa: £22,000 – £25,000 per year, valid for 6 months.
  • Skilled Worker Visa: £26,000 – £30,000 per year, valid up to 5 years.
  • Temporary Work Visa (T5): ~£22,000 per year, short-term contracts.

For immigrants, selecting the right visa depends on whether they want short-term income or long-term settlement.

Where to Find Farm Jobs Opportunities

Finding farmworker jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship requires a strategic approach. Many immigrants often rely on word-of-mouth or informal channels, but the most effective way is to search through legitimate and government-approved platforms. The following are reliable ways to find UK farm jobs:

  1. Government-Approved Agencies: Organizations such as Concordia UK Ltd and Pro-Force Ltd are licensed by the Home Office to recruit foreign workers. Applying through these agencies ensures you are matched with verified employers who provide visa sponsorship.
  2. Official UK Government Website (GOV.UK): The government’s website regularly lists visa categories, eligibility requirements, and approved sponsor employers. Immigrants can search for farming roles under the “Skilled Worker visa sponsor list.”
  3. Job Portals: Websites like Indeed UK, TotalJobs, and Reed frequently post farmworker vacancies with clear indications of visa sponsorship availability. A simple search for “farmworker jobs UK with visa sponsorship” brings up hundreds of listings.
  4. Direct Farm Websites: Large agricultural companies such as G’s Fresh or Hall Hunter Partnership post job openings directly on their websites. Applying here increases the chances of securing seasonal or permanent contracts.
  5. Recruitment Fairs and International Drives: Some employers conduct recruitment campaigns abroad, particularly in countries with high labor availability. These events provide direct access to employers, often with interviews and sponsorship offers on the spot.

One critical point for immigrants is to avoid unverified recruitment agencies or individuals requesting upfront fees. Genuine visa sponsorship jobs require no payment other than official visa processing costs.

With thousands of farm vacancies across the UK, immigrants willing to put in consistent effort will find multiple opportunities to apply and secure a role that fits their preferences.

How to Apply for Farm Jobs as an Immigrant in the UK

Applying for farm jobs in the UK requires careful preparation to ensure both the employer and the immigration authorities recognize your eligibility. The process involves several steps, each crucial in securing employment and visa approval.

Step 1: Research and Identify Employers

Begin by identifying farms or recruitment agencies that are licensed visa sponsors. Focus on companies with a strong reputation for hiring immigrants, such as Hall Hunter Partnership or Concordia UK Ltd.

Step 2: Prepare a Strong CV and Cover Letter

Even for farmworker positions, employers expect a professional CV. Highlight skills such as physical stamina, teamwork, and any past agricultural experience. A clear, concise cover letter expressing willingness to relocate and adapt to farm life significantly improves your chances.

Step 3: Apply Directly Online

Submit applications via official company websites or job portals. Ensure you apply only to verified sponsors. Avoid third-party recruiters demanding extra charges.

Step 4: Secure a Certificate of Sponsorship

Once selected, your employer provides a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This is a legal document required by the Home Office to process your visa.

Step 5: Apply for the Visa

Using the CoS, apply online through the UK Home Office website. Seasonal Worker visas cost approximately £259, while Skilled Worker visas start at £719. Applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is around £624 per year, giving access to the NHS.

Step 6: Relocation and Work Start

After visa approval, travel to the UK and report directly to your employer. Farms often assist with airport pickups, housing, and orientation to help new workers settle quickly.

By following these steps carefully, immigrants can move from application to employment in less than 12 weeks, depending on processing times.

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