Fruit picking jobs in England provide an excellent opportunity for foreigners seeking seasonal employment, with the added advantage of visa sponsorship. With the UK’s agricultural industry in constant need of labor, many farms offer visa sponsorship to meet the demand for workers during harvest seasons. These roles are popular for people looking for unskilled work, especially for those aiming to gain experience working abroad.
This article outlines Job Details, Job Requirements, Job Responsibilities, Job Benefits, Average Salary, and How to Apply for fruit picking jobs in England with visa sponsorship in 2024.
Job Details
- Job Title: Fruit Picker
- Location: Various farms across England (Kent, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, etc.)
- Job Type: Seasonal (Full-time, part-time)
- Visa Sponsorship: Available for qualified candidates
- Sector: Agriculture (Fruit farming, horticulture)
- Work Environment: Outdoor, working in fields, orchards, or farms
- Positions Available: Strawberry, apple, pear, cherry, and berry picking
Job Requirements
Fruit picking jobs in England typically don’t require extensive qualifications, making them accessible for foreign workers. However, there are still a few essential requirements:
- Education:
- No formal education is required for fruit picking roles.
- Basic literacy and numeracy skills are helpful for understanding instructions.
- Physical Fitness:
- Fruit picking is a physically demanding job that requires standing, bending, and working outdoors in various weather conditions.
- Candidates should be in good physical health and able to handle manual labor.
- Experience:
- Previous experience in agricultural work is a plus but not mandatory.
- Training is provided on-site.
- Language Skills:
- Basic English language skills are required for communication and safety purposes, though some employers are flexible.
- Visa Eligibility:
- Candidates must be eligible for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa (T5), which allows foreign workers to work in agriculture for up to 6 months.
- Employers offer visa sponsorship as part of the recruitment process.
Job Responsibilities
Fruit pickers are responsible for harvesting various types of fruit and preparing them for transport. Specific responsibilities include:
- Picking Fruit:
- Harvesting different kinds of fruits (e.g., strawberries, apples, cherries) by hand or with the aid of tools.
- Ensuring that fruit is picked at the right ripeness without damaging the product.
- Sorting and Packing:
- Sorting the fruit according to size and quality before packing it into containers or crates.
- Packing fruit neatly for transport to processing facilities or markets.
- Maintaining Equipment:
- Operating and maintaining picking tools or equipment used in the harvesting process.
- Keeping the work area clean and free of debris.
- Field Maintenance:
- Helping with general fieldwork like pruning, irrigation, and weeding when necessary.
- Assisting with the maintenance and upkeep of the farm during the off-peak periods.
- Following Safety Guidelines:
- Adhering to all health and safety guidelines, including wearing appropriate protective gear and working safely with tools and equipment.
Job Benefits
Fruit picking jobs in England come with several benefits, especially for foreign workers:
- Visa Sponsorship:
- Employers sponsor foreign workers through the UK Seasonal Worker Visa, which allows up to 6 months of employment.
- Accommodation:
- Many employers provide on-site accommodation or help workers find housing near the farm.
- Rent is often deducted from wages at a low cost.
- Flexible Hours:
- Fruit picking jobs can offer flexible shifts, with opportunities for overtime during peak harvest periods.
- Training Provided:
- No prior experience is needed as employers provide on-the-job training.
- Cultural Experience:
- Fruit picking jobs offer a unique opportunity to live and work in England, experiencing the countryside and local culture.
Average Salary
Salaries for fruit picking jobs in England can vary depending on the farm, the type of fruit being harvested, and the location. On average:
- Hourly Wage: £10 – £12 per hour
- Monthly Salary: £1,600 – £2,400 (based on a full-time schedule)
Fruit pickers may also receive bonuses for productivity or quality, and there is often the opportunity to earn more during peak seasons with overtime.
How to Apply (Online Application Process)
Applying for fruit picking jobs in England with visa sponsorship is a straightforward process, especially when done online. Follow these steps to secure a job in the 2024 season:
Step 1: Search for Job Listings
- Look for job listings on popular UK job portals such as Indeed, TotalJobs, FruitfulJobs, and HOPS Labour Solutions.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application
- Update your resume to reflect any previous agricultural or manual labor experience.
- Include basic details such as your physical fitness and willingness to work outdoors.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
- Apply through job portals or directly via the farm’s official website.
- Ensure that you complete the online forms accurately and upload all requested documents.
Step 4: Attend Virtual Interviews
- If shortlisted, you may be invited for an online interview to discuss your experience, suitability, and visa sponsorship process.
- Be prepared to discuss your ability to handle the physical demands of the job.
Step 5: Visa Sponsorship Process
- Upon selection, your employer will assist with the visa application process.
- You’ll need to provide a valid passport, and the employer will guide you through the requirements for the UK Seasonal Worker Visa (T5).

