UK Committee Urges Flexibility for Seasonal Worker Visas

The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has recommended that the UK government enhance the flexibility of the Seasonal Worker Scheme (SWS). This suggestion addresses the UK’s heavy reliance on foreign labor in the agricultural sector, which is more pronounced than in other industries.

Launched as a pilot program in 2019, the Seasonal Worker Scheme is expected to remain in place until at least 2029. The agricultural sector in the UK faces difficulties in attracting local workers due to the physically demanding nature of the jobs and the low wages in rural areas.

MAC has highlighted that the significant wage differences between the UK and less affluent countries can make seasonal agricultural work in the UK attractive and sometimes financially beneficial for migrant workers.

Along with recommending increased flexibility for the scheme, MAC has also proposed improvements to the working conditions and wages for seasonal workers to ensure they are treated fairly.