If you’re searching for high paying fruit picking jobs in UK with visa sponsorship, you’re likely looking for a legal way to work in the UK, earn in pounds (£), and support your family back home. The good news? The UK government officially runs a Seasonal Worker visa program that allows foreign nationals to work in horticulture, including fruit picking, for up to 6 months.
This guide explains:
- ✅ How much fruit pickers earn in the UK
- ✅ How visa sponsorship works
- ✅ Step‑by‑step application process
- ✅ Licensed recruiters to apply through
- ✅ Requirements for workers from Africa & Asia
- ✅ How to avoid job scams
Everything here is aligned with official guidance from GOV.UK and current UK wage regulations.
What Are High Paying Fruit Picking Jobs in UK With Visa Sponsorship?
High paying fruit picking jobs in the UK are seasonal agricultural roles where workers harvest fruits such as:
- Strawberries
- Apples
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Cherries
- Tomatoes (greenhouse)
These jobs are offered under the UK Seasonal Worker visa (Temporary Work – Seasonal Worker route).
Quick Overview (Featured Snippet Format)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | Seasonal Worker Visa |
| Duration | Up to 6 months |
| Industry | Horticulture (fruit & vegetable picking) |
| Average Pay | £10.42 – £13+ per hour (often higher with bonuses) |
| Sponsor Required? | Yes |
| Application Via | Licensed UK scheme operators |
Source: UK Government – Seasonal Worker Visa (add link to GOV.UK Seasonal Worker page)
How Much Do Fruit Pickers Earn in the UK?
One of the main reasons people search for high paying fruit picking jobs in UK with visa sponsorship is the earning potential.
1️⃣ UK Minimum Wage (2026 Update)
According to GOV.UK, the National Living Wage for workers aged 21+ is typically reviewed annually. Employers must pay at least the legal minimum wage.
Most farms pay:
- £10.42 – £12.00 per hour (minimum range)
- Some pay £13+ per hour depending on productivity
- Overtime may increase earnings
(Always verify updated wage rates on GOV.UK.)
2️⃣ Performance-Based Pay (Piece Rate System)
Many farms use a piece rate system, meaning:
- You’re paid based on how much fruit you pick.
- Fast workers can earn significantly more.
Experienced pickers can earn:
- £500 – £800 per week (during peak harvest)
- £2,000 – £3,000+ over 6 months
💡 Expert Insight: Workers who are physically fit and used to farm labor often outperform beginners and earn more under piece-rate systems.
What Is the UK Seasonal Worker Visa?
The Seasonal Worker visa allows foreign nationals to work in UK horticulture for up to 6 months.
Key Requirements:
- Job offer from a licensed UK sponsor
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Minimum savings (usually £1,270 unless employer covers it)
- Valid passport
- Pay visa application fee
Official details: GOV.UK – Seasonal Worker Visa (insert link)
Who Can Apply for Fruit Picking Jobs in the UK?
Good news: The Seasonal Worker route is open to applicants from many countries in:
- Africa
- Asia
- Eastern Europe
- Middle East
You do NOT need:
- A university degree
- IELTS English test (in most cases)
- Previous UK work experience
However, you must:
- Be 18 years or older
- Be physically fit
- Be willing to work outdoors in varying weather
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for High Paying Fruit Picking Jobs in UK With Visa Sponsorship
Step 1: Apply Through Licensed UK Scheme Operators
You cannot apply directly for the visa without sponsorship.
You must apply through approved UK scheme operators such as:
- AG Recruitment
- Pro-Force
- Concordia
- Fruitful Jobs
- HOPS Labour Solutions
(Check GOV.UK for updated licensed sponsors list.)
Step 2: Secure a Job Offer
After applying:
- You may attend an interview (online or via recruiter)
- Submit documents
- Receive a job offer if selected
You’ll then receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
Step 3: Apply for the Seasonal Worker Visa
Apply online via GOV.UK.
You will need:
- Passport
- Certificate of Sponsorship
- Proof of savings
- Tuberculosis test (for some countries)
Visa fee and healthcare surcharge may apply.
Step 4: Travel to the UK
After visa approval:
- Book your flight
- Arrange accommodation (often provided by farm)
- Begin work upon arrival
Best Regions in the UK for Fruit Picking Jobs
Some areas offer more opportunities and higher pay:
🍓 Kent – “Garden of England”
- Strawberries
- Apples
- Cherries
🍎 Herefordshire
- Apple orchards
- Large commercial farms
🍇 Lincolnshire
- Vegetables
- Greenhouse farming
🫐 Scotland
- Berry picking
- High seasonal demand
What Makes a Fruit Picking Job “High Paying”?
Not all farms pay the same. High-paying jobs usually include:
✅ Overtime pay
✅ Performance bonuses
✅ Free or subsidized accommodation
✅ Long working hours (more total earnings)
✅ Consistent harvest season
Working Conditions: What to Expect
Be prepared for:
- 8–10 hour shifts
- Standing for long hours
- Outdoor weather conditions
- Early morning starts
💡 Real-World Insight: Many returning workers say physical preparation before arrival improves productivity and earnings.
Accommodation & Living Costs
Most farms provide accommodation:
- Caravan-style housing
- Shared facilities
- Cost deducted from salary (within legal limits)
Average weekly accommodation cost:
£40 – £70
Always confirm details before signing contract.
How to Avoid Fruit Picking Job Scams
Unfortunately, many fake agents target foreign workers.
🚨 Warning Signs:
- Asking for huge upfront payments
- No official job contract
- No Certificate of Sponsorship
- Visa promises without sponsor
✅ Always verify:
- Sponsor listed on GOV.UK
- Official email domain
- Written contract
Never pay unofficial “processing fees.”
Pros and Cons of Fruit Picking Jobs in the UK
✅ Pros
- Legal visa sponsorship
- No degree required
- Paid in British Pounds
- Opportunity to return yearly
- Exposure to UK work culture
❌ Cons
- Physically demanding
- Temporary visa (6 months)
- Weather-dependent work
- No permanent settlement route
Can Fruit Picking Lead to Permanent Residency?
Currently, the Seasonal Worker visa does NOT lead directly to permanent residency (ILR).
However:
- You may return annually.
- You can switch visas only if eligible under other routes.
Always check updated immigration rules on GOV.UK.
How Much Money Can You Save?
Example scenario:
| Weekly Earnings | £600 |
|---|---|
| Weekly Expenses | £100 |
| Savings per Week | £500 |
Over 20 weeks:
£10,000 possible gross savings (before personal spending).
Actual savings depend on discipline and productivity.
Skills That Increase Your Earnings
- Speed and accuracy in picking
- Physical stamina
- Previous farm experience
- Basic English communication
- Ability to work in teams
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are fruit picking jobs in UK with visa sponsorship real?
Yes. The UK government officially operates the Seasonal Worker visa program for horticulture jobs.
2. How much do fruit pickers earn in the UK per month?
Most earn between £1,800 – £2,800 per month depending on hours and productivity.
3. Do I need IELTS to apply?
No, IELTS is generally not required for Seasonal Worker visa applicants.
4. Can I bring my family?
No. The Seasonal Worker visa does not allow dependents.
5. When is the best time to apply?
Between January and March for peak spring/summer harvest seasons.
