Fruit Picking Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship

Looking for fruit picking jobs in UK with visa sponsorship? Discover how foreigners can apply, salaries, benefits, and tips to secure seasonal agricultural work in 2026. The United Kingdom has a thriving seasonal agricultural sector, with fruit picking jobs forming the backbone of many farms during harvest seasons. From apples and strawberries to cherries and raspberries, fruit picking is in high demand, especially as the local workforce struggles to meet seasonal requirements.

For foreign workers, this creates a great opportunity to earn money, gain international work experience, and receive visa sponsorship, allowing legal employment in the UK for several months.

Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or a seasonal worker looking to work abroad, 2026 is shaping up to be a strong year for fruit picking jobs in the UK.

Why Fruit Picking Jobs in UK Are in Demand

  1. Seasonal Harvests – Fruits such as strawberries, apples, and plums require extra labor during peak season (June to October).

  2. Shortage of Local Workers – Many locals do not take up seasonal farm work, creating vacancies for foreign workers.

  3. Visa Sponsorship Programs – UK farms sponsor foreign workers under seasonal worker visa schemes.

  4. Opportunity for Earnings – Pay is often hourly or per basket, allowing motivated workers to earn extra income quickly.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for Fruit Picking Jobs in UK

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Most seasonal work programs in the UK require:

  • Age between 18–30 (varies by employer).

  • Physical fitness to handle long hours of outdoor labor.

  • Ability to work for 3–6 months (harvest period).

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Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Required documents include:

  • Passport with at least six months validity.

  • Recent passport-sized photographs.

  • Medical certificate (sometimes requested for visa applications).

  • Proof of previous work experience (optional but helpful).

Step 3: Search for Seasonal Fruit Picking Jobs

Reliable platforms include:

  • UK Government Seasonal Worker Scheme portal

  • Indeed UK

  • AgriRecruit UK

  • Local farm websites or recruitment agencies specializing in agriculture

Step 4: Secure a Visa Sponsorship

Most foreign workers require a UK Seasonal Worker Visa. Key points:

  • Employers provide sponsorship letters for approved visa applicants.

  • Visa duration typically ranges from 6–12 months.

  • You must demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself initially.

Step 5: Submit Your Visa Application

  • Fill out the online application form.

  • Pay visa and service fees.

  • Attend biometric appointments and provide required documents.

  • Wait for visa approval (processing times vary).

Step 6: Prepare for Arrival

  • Arrange flights and travel insurance.

  • Learn basic English for workplace communication.

  • Prepare for long days outdoors in all weather conditions.

Jobs and Opportunities

1. Strawberry Picking Jobs

  • Peak Season: May–July

  • Pay: £8–12/hour or per basket

  • Requirements: Bending, long hours, careful handling of fruit

2. Apple Harvesting Jobs

  • Peak Season: August–October

  • Pay: £8–11/hour

  • Requirements: Picking from ladders, teamwork, basic orchard knowledge

3. Cherry and Berry Picking Jobs

  • Peak Season: June–August

  • Pay: £8–13/hour

  • Requirements: Patience, careful handling, outdoor work in sun or rain

4. General Farm Labor with Fruit Picking Duties

  • Assisting with pruning, irrigation, packing, and transport

  • Often includes accommodation and meals

  • Opportunity to learn farming operations abroad

Salaries and Benefits

  • Hourly Pay: £8–£13 depending on the fruit and farm.

  • Accommodation: Many farms provide free or subsidized housing.

  • Meals: Some employers provide meals or meal allowances.

  • Overtime: Seasonal harvest peaks offer higher earnings.

  • Experience: Gain exposure to international farming practices and agricultural technology.

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Tips for Success

  1. Be Physically Prepared – Fruit picking involves long hours of standing, bending, and lifting.

  2. Work Quickly and Carefully – Efficiency improves earnings, especially if paid per basket.

  3. Arrive Early – Employers favor punctual, reliable workers.

  4. Respect Local Regulations – Follow farm safety rules and UK labor laws.

  5. Network – Other seasonal workers can help with tips and future job leads.

  6. Be Flexible – Some farms may rotate workers between fruit types or tasks.

FAQs: Fruit Picking Jobs in UK

1. Can foreigners apply for fruit picking jobs in UK?
Yes, foreign workers can apply through UK Seasonal Worker Visa programs with employer sponsorship.

2. Do fruit picking jobs include accommodation?
Many farms provide free or low-cost housing for seasonal workers.

3. What is the typical salary for fruit pickers in UK?
Hourly pay ranges from £8–£13 depending on experience, fruit type, and farm.

4. How long can foreign workers stay in the UK for fruit picking?
Seasonal visas typically allow 3–6 months, sometimes extendable depending on the program.

5. Is English required for fruit picking jobs?
Basic English is helpful for communication but not always mandatory.

6. Are fruit picking jobs physically demanding?
Yes, workers must handle long hours, bending, and lifting baskets of fruit.

7. Can fruit picking lead to long-term employment in the UK?
While seasonal work is temporary, performing well can open doors to other farm roles or skilled agricultural jobs.

Conclusion

Fruit picking jobs in the UK offer a unique opportunity for foreign workers in 2026. With visa sponsorship, accommodation, and seasonal wages, you can gain international work experience while supporting one of the country’s most vital industries.

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Whether your goal is earning extra money, gaining agricultural skills, or exploring life abroad, fruit picking roles are a solid starting point. By preparing your documents, securing visa sponsorship, and staying committed on the farm, you can have a successful and rewarding season in the UK.

For motivated foreigners, these jobs are not just temporary work, they are a gateway to future agricultural careers and international opportunities.

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