smartblogger094Fruit picking is a time-honored way to earn money, get some fresh air and exercise, and experience rural British culture. Although the hours are long and the work can be physically demanding, fruit picking jobs in the UK offer foreign nationals an opportunity to legally work and travel in a beautiful country.
This guide provides an overview of the highest paying fruit picking jobs that also offer visa sponsorship, so you can explore your options. From berry farms in Scotland to hop gardens in Kent, there are rewarding seasonal roles all over the UK if you’re willing to work hard outside.
Top Job Options for Visa Sponsorship
Soft Fruit Farm Work
Soft fruits like strawberries, raspberries and blueberries are major crops in the UK that need many hands each summer season. Expect to earn £8.50-10 per hour picking and sorting soft fruits on farms across England, Scotland and Wales from June through September. Top employers who offer Tier 5 visas include Berry World, Bidwells, Hilltop and AC Goatham. Accommodation is typically provided on-site in dormitories or mobile homes.
Apple and Pear Picking
Orchards in Kent, Herefordshire and Worcestershire harvest tons of apples and pears from late August through November. Wages are £8.50-9.50 per hour for skilled pickers who fill boxes efficiently. Some of the largest visa-sponsoring operations are Gillions Fruit Farm, Keelings Produce and Big Tree Orchards. Housing may be in caravans on the farm or nearby villages.
Hops Harvesting
The hop farms of Kent’s “Garden of England” region need extra laborers each September to prune bines and pick hops used for beer production. Pay ranges from £9-11 per hour depending on experience. Employers like Johnsons Farming offer high wages for fast workers with employer-provided accommodation in rural settings. Visas are available through the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Scheme.
Other Options
Other crops with fruit picking roles include asparagus, strawberries, cherries and salad vegetables. Employers to consider include Daylesford Organic, Riverford Organic Farmers and G’s Fresh. Salaries tend to be on the lower end at £8.25-9 per hour but accommodation is included on picturesque organic farms across Southern England. Visas are offered through Tier 5 temporary work visas.
Applying for Jobs and Visas
To be eligible for agricultural job offers with visa sponsorship in the UK, you must:
- Be aged 18-30
- Have a basic level of English
- Pass a criminal record check
- Commit to working full-time hours during harvesting periods
Employers will guide you through the Tier 5 visa application process if hired. It’s important to apply for jobs and visas well in advance of the start date as processing can take 8-12 weeks. The best time to look is January-April for roles from June-November.
Some tips when applying:
- Research companies and crop seasons in depth
- Highlight any farm, food or manual labor experience
- Emphasize a strong work ethic in interviews
- Ask employers any visa questions proactively
With preparation and the right application materials, you can set yourself apart from other candidates and secure one of the prized jobs that includes visa sponsorship and housing in rural England.
Frequently Asked Questions
How physically demanding is fruit picking work in the UK?
Fruit picking requires being on your feet for long days and performing repetitive lifting and reaching motions. The work is outdoors rain or shine. Having stamina and being willing to work at a fast pace is important. Employers look for those who can keep up high daily quotas. Proper clothing, footwear and sun protection is essential.
Do I need prior farming experience for this position in the UK?
While experience is an asset, most employers are willing to train newcomers in pruning, picking and crop handling techniques. The key skills are having a good work ethic, being a quick learner, and showing an eagerness to contribute as part of the farm team during harvest season. Experience in other manual jobs can also be beneficial to mention in applications.
Is accommodation provided or do I need to find my own place in the UK?
Nearly all of the top fruit picking jobs that offer visas will provide dormitory-style housing or cabins/mobile homes/caravans on the farm property. This allows workers to save money and fully immerse themselves in the farming lifestyle during employment periods without having to spend time searching for separate lodging. Communal kitchen and bathroom facilities are standard.
What are the typical working hours?
Standard weekly hours are 40-48 during peak harvesting times. Expect to work 6 days a week, with earlier starts such as 7am and later finishes at 7-8pm depending on daylight and crop conditions. Sundays are usually reserved as the one day off, though some jobs may require weekend work on occasion. Overtime is sometimes available.
Do employers assist with visa applications?
Reputable farm employers who regularly hire foreign nationals will guide you through completing and submitting the Tier 5 visa application on their behalf as your sponsor. They handle the Certificates of Sponsorship and invitations to support the temporary work visa process as needed. Any questions should be directed to the farm contact rather than attempting to manage applications independently.
In conclusion, fruit picking in the UK presents an unique opportunity for those seeking high-paying seasonal work along with a cultural exchange experience and travel opportunity. With preparation and commitment to farm life, securing one of the top jobs that includes visa sponsorship and housing can make for a highly memorable opportunity abroad.
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