Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Eligibility in full
The eligibility page lists three things: age 18 or over, a certificate of sponsorship reference number, and at least £1,270 held for 28 days in a row unless your sponsor certifies maintenance. Your employer must pay at least the minimum wage.
The only reference to English in the guide is that documents not in English or Welsh, apart from your passport, need a certified translation.
| Item | Gov.uk figure |
|---|---|
| Application fee | £340 |
| Horticulture stay | Up to 6 months |
| Poultry stay | 2 October to 31 December |
| Poultry application deadline | 15 November each year |
| Usual decision time | Within 3 weeks |
What you cannot do on this visa
Gov.uk says you cannot take a permanent job, work in a second job, get public funds or bring family members (gov.uk). If you want a longer-term UK job route, the Skilled Worker visa has a B2 English requirement.
Rules change, sometimes at short notice. Confirm the current requirement on the gov.uk Seasonal Worker guide before you book a test or apply. This guide restates the official page; it is not legal or immigration advice.
Need a SELT for a UK visa?
Where the Home Office asks for a Secure English Language Test, IELTS for UKVI and PTE Academic UKVI are approved. Practise the format free.
Free IELTS for UKVI practice →Practise before you book: free IELTS mock test, IELTS reading practice, IELTS listening practice and IELTS speaking predictions.
When to apply and arrive
You can apply up to 3 months before the start date on your certificate of sponsorship, and enter the UK up to 14 days before your job starts. You can apply for horticulture visas at any time of year.
As part of the application you prove your identity and provide your documents; gov.uk says you may need extra time if you need an appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Does my sponsor need proof of my English?+
Gov.uk's visa eligibility does not set an English test. A sponsor can still set its own job requirements.
Can I bring my family?+
No. Gov.uk says you cannot bring family members on a Seasonal Worker visa.
Can I switch to a Skilled Worker visa?+
This guide does not cover switching. If you apply for a Skilled Worker visa, that route has its own English requirement.
How early can I apply?+
Up to 3 months before the start date on your certificate of sponsorship.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS for the UK Skilled Worker visa
- UK Creative Worker visa and English
- UK Youth Mobility visa and English
- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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