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The UK government plans to offer 43,000 seasonal worker visas to the horticulture and poultry sectors in 2025, and extend the visa program for five years until 2029.
The move aims to support farmers and growers in transitioning to automated solutions and reduce reliance on migrant labor.
The government is allocating up to £50 million for the development of fully automated packhouses and a comprehensive strategy to enhance skills training and attract domestic workers.
The seasonal visa has replaced the Temporary Worker – Seasonal Worker visa (T5), allowing individuals to work in sectors like horticulture for up to six months and poultry from October 2 to December 31 each year.
The government is also increasing support for using machines in farming, planning to automate several large packing facilities within the next 12 to 18 months.
