United Kingdom Releases Response to MAC’s Seasonal Worker Review

Key Point  

• The United Kingdom released its response to the Migration Advisory Committee’s recent review of the Seasonal Worker routes.

MAC Seasonal Worker Review  

The United Kingdom (U.K.) government published its response to the Migration Advisory Committee’s (MAC) review of the Seasonal Worker route.  

The update outlines planned adjustments to visa rules, worker protections and long‑term program planning for the agriculture sector. Some of the key takeaways include:  

Seasonal Worker Route to Continue 

• The route remains in place under the previously announced five‑year extension. 
• The government will provide two years’ notice before any planned closure. 
• Immediate closure remains possible in exceptional circumstances. 

Cooling‑Off Period Reduced 

• The cooling‑off period will be reduced from six months to four months. 
• The government did not adopt MAC’s recommendation for a three‑month period. 

Worker Protections and Compliance 

• The government will continue strengthening protections against worker exploitation. 
• The upcoming Fair Work Agency will consolidate enforcement functions. 
• UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has begun bi‑monthly compliance meetings with scheme sponsors. 

Employer Pays Principle (EPP) 

• The government will continue evaluating EPP with industry partners. 
• Further review is needed due to potential cost impacts across the supply chain. 

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