Grapes Picker Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship 2025 Grape picking in the UK is a seasonal role primarily associated with the country’s growing wine industry, concentrated in regions like Kent, Sussex, Surrey, and other southern areas with vineyards. The harvest typically occurs from late summer to early autumn (August to October), involving manual picking of grapes from vines. These jobs fall under horticulture and are eligible for the UK’s Seasonal Worker visa, which allows temporary work for up to 6 months.
Overview of Grape Picker Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship for 2025
While grape-specific jobs are less common than general fruit picking (e.g., berries or apples), they are included in broader fruit harvesting roles. No prior experience is usually required, but physical fitness is essential as the work is labor-intensive and outdoors. Wages are typically £10.50–£12 per hour (or piece-rate based on output), often with accommodation provided on-site or nearby to reduce costs.45 Many positions also include meals, transport to fields, and overtime pay.
Seasonal Worker Visa Requirements and Application Process
To work as a grape picker with sponsorship, you must apply for the Seasonal Worker visa (Temporary Work route). Here’s a step-by-step guide based on official guidelines:
- Eligibility:
- You must have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from an approved UK employer or scheme operator in horticulture (e.g., fruit/vegetable picking, including grapes).
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Prove basic English language skills (e.g., via a simple test or prior education).
- Have sufficient funds to support yourself initially (£1,270 for 28 days, unless covered by the employer).
- No criminal record or immigration issues.
- The job must be temporary and seasonal; you cannot bring family, access public funds, or switch to another visa type easily.
How to Find and Apply for Grape Picker Jobs
- Search Platforms: Use sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, WineJobsEngland.co.uk, or farm-specific websites. Keywords: “vineyard harvest jobs UK 2025 visa sponsorship” or “grape picking seasonal work UK”.
- Application Tips: Submit a CV highlighting any physical labor experience. Many operators recruit internationally via agencies. Expect interviews via video call. Urgent hiring often happens pre-harvest (June–August 2025).
- Challenges: Weather-dependent work; piece-rate pay means earnings vary (aim for £1,000–£1,500/month after deductions). Brexit has increased reliance on sponsorship, but bureaucracy can delay applications.
Approved Scheme Operators and Example Employers
Employers must work through licensed scheme operators to sponsor visas. There are about 5 main horticultural operators for 2025. Here are key ones and example vineyard/fruit employers (based on current listings; check for updates as licenses change):71112
| Operator/Employer | Location | Role Details | Visa Sponsorship | Contact/Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HOPS Labour Solutions | Nationwide (focus on South East) | Grape/fruit picking via partner farms; seasonal harvest roles. | Yes, approved operator for horticulture. | Apply via hopslaboursolutions.com; recruits for vineyards.713 |
| Pro-Force Personnel | East Anglia & South | Vineyard harvest assistants; grape picking in Kent/Sussex. | Yes, licensed for Seasonal Worker route. | proforce.co.uk; open applications for 2025.7 |
| Concordia | Nationwide | Fruit harvesting including grapes; accommodation included. | Yes, scheme operator. | concordia.org.uk; international recruitment. |
Additional Advice
- Start Early: Harvest recruitment peaks in spring 2025; apply now via operator websites.
- Costs: Visa fee £319 + Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 for 6 months). Flights and initial travel may be your responsibility.
- Alternatives if No Sponsorship: Some jobs offer cash-in-hand for EU citizens, but non-EU need visas.
- Resources: Check NFUonline for updates19 or join Facebook groups for seasonal work experiences.
Salary Information for Grape Picker Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship (2025)
Salaries for grape picker roles in the UK are governed by the National Living Wage (NLW) and National Minimum Wage (NMW), which apply to most seasonal horticultural workers aged 21 and over. As of April 1, 2025, the NLW is £12.21 per hour for workers aged 21+, with lower rates for younger workers (£10 per hour for 18–20, £7.55 for under 18 or apprentices).These rates ensure a minimum pay floor, but many employers pay above this due to the labor-intensive nature of the work, piece-rate incentives (payment per basket or bin of grapes picked), bonuses for high performance, and overtime during peak harvest (August–October). There may be an additional increase to £12.50 per hour effective October 27, 2025, for those aged 23+, though this is pending confirmation.
Factors Affecting Salary:
- Experience: Newcomers start at base; returnees get piece-rate boosts.
- Location: Southern vineyards (e.g., Denbies in Surrey) pay slightly higher due to tourism ties.
- Visa Sponsorship: Sponsored roles via operators like HOPS or Pro-Force ensure minimum wage compliance but may include agency fees (covered by employer).
- Inflation/Changes: With the 2025 wage rise, expect 5–6% increases from 2024. Always check job ads for exact figures, as piece-rate can lead to variability (e.g., poor weather reduces output).
How To Apply
Apply Now
Conclusion
Grape picker jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship offer a viable entry point for international workers in 2025, particularly amid ongoing labor shortages in the wine industry. With competitive salaries starting at £12.21/hour (potentially £1,400–£2,000/month net), accommodation perks, and the Seasonal Worker visa’s accessibility (up to 6 months, no family accompaniment), these roles provide short-term income and experience in a growing sector. However, the physical demands, weather dependency, and application competition (43,000 quota) mean success requires early preparation, fitness, and scam vigilance.
FAQs on Grape Picker Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship (2025)
Here are answers to the most common questions based on official guidelines and recent job trends:
- What is the minimum salary for grape pickers in 2025?
The base is the National Living Wage of £12.21 per hour for those 21+, equating to about £430–£520 weekly for standard hours. Many roles pay more via piece-rates or bonuses, averaging £550–£700/week.11 - Do all grape picker jobs offer visa sponsorship?
No, but those under the Seasonal Worker visa route do, via approved operators (e.g., HOPS, Concordia). You need a Certificate of Sponsorship from them. Direct vineyard jobs may partner with operators for sponsorship.5 - How much can I earn after deductions?
Gross monthly: £1,400–£2,200. Deduct £160–£240 for accommodation and 20% tax/NI, leaving £1,200–£1,800 net. Perks like free meals can save £100–£200/month.3 - Is experience required for these jobs?
No prior experience is needed; training is provided on-site. Physical fitness and reliability are key, as work involves bending, lifting (up to 15kg), and outdoor labor in variable weather. - When is the 2025 grape harvest, and how do I apply?
Typically August–October. Apply now via sites like Indeed, WineJobsEngland.co.uk, or operator websites (e.g., proforce.co.uk). Secure a job offer first, then apply for the visa 3 months before start date. Quota fills fast—aim for spring recruitment.6
