General Farm Laborer Jobs in UK with Sponsorship 2025

Earning £10–£15 per hour, with no prior experience required for many roles, farm labourer jobs in the UK are a great chance for international workers seeking stable work. These are hands-on, physical jobs, not remote, ranging from fruit picking to caring for animals on dairy or poultry farms.
Beyond the pay, what makes these roles special is the opportunity to start fresh in a new country, meet people from around the world, and be part of a community that keeps the UK’s food supply moving.
Details:
- Job Title: General Farm Labourer
- Locations: Across the UK (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)
- Visa Options:
- Seasonal Worker Visa – short-term roles (up to 6 months, usually crop and harvest work)
- Skilled Worker Visa – long-term roles where employers are licensed sponsors (e.g., dairy, poultry, livestock farms)
Requirements:
Farm work is open to many applicants, but you’ll need to meet some basic conditions:
- Valid Work Visa – Seasonal Worker Visa or Skilled Worker Visa (see official UK government guidance).
- Age & Fitness – Most employers prefer workers aged 18–50 due to the physical demands.
- English Language Skills – Basic English helps you follow instructions and communicate with your team.
- Background & Health Check – A clean criminal record and good health are often required.
- Experience (Optional) – Prior farm work is an advantage, but not always essential. Many farms train new workers.
Responsibilities:
Your day-to-day duties will depend on the type of farm and season, but common tasks include:
- Planting, weeding, and harvesting crops
- Feeding and caring for livestock
- Milking cows and maintaining dairy equipment
- Collecting and grading eggs on poultry farms
- Operating and maintaining farm machinery
- Setting up irrigation systems and monitoring water supply
- Packing and preparing produce for markets and distribution
Reality check: Farm work is hands-on and often outdoors in all weather. Expect early starts, long shifts during harvest, and plenty of physical activity.
Check Also: Highways Delivery Manager Jobs in UK with Visa
Salary:
Wages are fair and often higher during peak seasons. On average:
- Entry-level roles: £10–£12 per hour
- Experienced workers: £12–£15 per hour
- Specialist roles: Over £15 per hour (e.g., machinery operators, supervisors)
Types of Farm Jobs Available:
Here are some of the most common roles you can apply for:
- Crop Harvester – Picking fruits, vegetables, and flowers
- Dairy Farm Worker – Milking cows, cleaning, and milk processing
- Poultry Worker – Caring for chickens and collecting eggs
- Field Worker – Planting, weeding, and crop maintenance
- Farm Machinery Operator – Driving tractors and equipment
- Irrigation Technician – Setting up and managing irrigation systems
- Farm Maintenance Worker – Repairing and maintaining buildings and fences
- Farm Supervisor – Managing daily operations and leading teams

UK General Farm Worker Visa:
The UK general farm worker visa allows foreign nationals to work on farms in permanent or longer-term roles. While most agricultural jobs fall under the seasonal category, some farms hire full-time workers to handle daily operations such as livestock care, machinery operation, and crop management.
This visa typically requires:
- A confirmed job offer from a UK employer
- Sponsorship by a licensed UK employer
- Meeting eligibility and financial requirements
UK Seasonal Worker Visa:
The UK seasonal worker visa is the most common route for foreigners looking to work in British agriculture. It allows you to work in the UK for up to six months in roles such as:
- Fruit and vegetable picking
- Planting and crop maintenance
- General harvest work
This visa is designed to fill labour shortages during busy farming periods and is highly popular among workers from abroad.
UK Farms Hiring Foreign Workers:
Every year, UK farms actively recruit international workers to meet demand. Many farms work with licensed recruitment agencies that connect employers with foreign seasonal staff.
If you’re searching for opportunities, focus on:
- Licensed operators approved under the seasonal worker scheme
- Reputable farm employers offering legal contracts
- Recruitment platforms specializing in agriculture jobs
Targeting UK farms hiring foreign workers ensures that you apply for legitimate positions with proper visa sponsorship.
Seasonal Agricultural Work Visa UK:
The seasonal agricultural work visa in the UK is part of the broader seasonal worker program. It’s specifically designed for foreign nationals who want to work temporarily in farming. The main features include:
- Validity for up to 6 months
- Limited to certain agricultural roles
- Requirement of sponsorship by an approved operator
For those who want to gain experience, earn seasonal income, or explore the UK while working, this visa is an excellent option.
How to Apply for General Farm Laborer Jobs in UK with Sponsorship 2025?
Applying for farm work in the UK is straightforward if you follow the right steps:
- Search for Jobs – Use websites like Indeed, Total Jobs, and agricultural job boards.
- Check Sponsorship – Confirm the employer is licensed to sponsor visas.
- Prepare Documents – Passport, CV (resume), references, medical, and police checks.
- Apply Online – Submit applications directly through job portals or employer websites.
- Receive Job Offer – Employer provides a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- Apply for a Visa – Submit your Seasonal or Skilled Worker visa application to the UK Home Office.
- Relocate – Once approved, arrange your travel and settle into your new role.
Conclusion:
Farm worker jobs in the UK offer steady pay, visa sponsorship, and opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers. With roles ranging from crop harvesting to dairy and livestock care, applicants can gain valuable skills while experiencing life in rural UK. Though physically demanding, these jobs provide financial stability, cultural exchange, and a chance to build a brighter future.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Do I need experience to apply for farm jobs in the UK?
No, many entry-level farm jobs don’t require prior experience. Employers often provide on-the-job training. Having experience is a plus but not a must.
-
Can I apply for UK farm jobs without knowing English?
Basic English is usually required for safety and communication. However, some farms hire workers with limited English if they can follow instructions.
-
What is the salary for farm workers in the UK?
Farm workers typically earn between £10 and £15 per hour, depending on experience, role type, and location.