Fishmonger and Seafood Processor Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship | How to Apply

Fishmonger and Seafood Processor Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship | How to Apply

The United Kingdom is known for its vibrant seafood industry, with the fishing and seafood processing industry contributing over £9 billion annually to the UK economy. Outside being a key contributor to the country’s economy, it is also one of the top employers of labour in the UK, having thousands of employment opportunities annually.

Read also: UK Labour Shortage Visa Program

The fishing and seafood processing industry, despite being one of the highest income-generating industries in the UK, is experiencing shortage of workers and this is expected to have an impact on the country’s annual output, according to a report on the fishing daily, new UK migration laws has resulted in annual increase in salaries of overseas fishmonger workers from £26,200 to £38,700. 

According to this report, the UK seafood industry relies heavily on non-UK workers, with each fleet employing over 60% of non-UK workers, making it one of the highest employers of UK immigrants.

Job Opportunities in the UK for  Fishmongers and Seafood Processors

The UK seafood industry often hires international workers for roles such as;

• Fishmongers (preparing, filleting, and selling fish)
• Seafood Processors (packing, cleaning, and processing seafood in factories)
• Fish Factory Workers (operating machinery, quality control)
• Shellfish Gatherers and Packers

Read also: Top 10 Companies In the UK Offering Visa Sponsorship

Duties of Fishmonger and Seafood Processor

Fishmongers are responsible for preparing and selling fish and other seafood products to customers, while seafood processors work in factories and processing plants, preparing seafood for distribution to retailers and restaurants.

The job responsibilities of fishmongers and seafood processors may vary depending on the employer and the specific job role. However, some common tasks associated with the job include:

• Preparing and cleaning fish and seafood products
• Processing seafood for distribution 
• Maintaining regulatory standards of hygiene and food safety practices
• Providing excellent customer service
• Working in a fast-paced environment

List of UK Companies Offering Visa Sponsorship for Fishmonger and Seafood Processor Jobs

Below are some of the UK companies in the seafood sector that may sponsor work visas.

• Young’s Seafood
• Iceland Seafood International
• Meridian Seafoods
• Seachill
• Marine Harvest (Mowi)
• Karakuri Seafood
• AEP UK LTD

You can also check the career page of seafood wholesalers, exporters, and supermarkets with fish counters. Some of the top ones to check include;

• Direct Seafoods
• John Ross Jr (Aberdeen)
• Fair Seas Fish
• Dawnfresh Seafoods
• Morrisons
• Marks & Spencer (M&S)

Read also: UK Fruit Picker Jobs with Visa Sponsorship

UK Recruitment Agencies that Offer Fishmonger and Seafood Processor Job Vacancies with Visa Sponsorship

Take a minute to check out these recruitment agencies that specialise in this industry;

• Workforce Recruitment
• Taskmaster Resources
• The Best Connection
• Anglian Recruitment

Visa Sponsorship Requirements

To get a Skilled Worker Visa, you’ll need to meet these criteria;

• Age: You must be 18 years or older at the time of application
• Get a job offer from a valid sponsor-licensed UK employer.
• The job must meet skill level (RQF Level 3 or above); some fish processing roles qualify.
• Salary of at least £26,200/year (or the “going rate” for the job, whichever is higher).
• English language proficiency (B1 level).
• Experience – Previous experience in the seafood industry or a related field is an added advantage
• Physical stamina: Ability to lift heavy objects, stand for long hours, and work in a cold environment

Alternative Visa Options

• Seasonal Worker Visa (Temporary): For short-term seafood processing roles (such options will be stated if available in any company).

Annual Salary of Fishmonger and Seafood Processor In the UK

• Fishmongers: £26,200,000 – £28,000/year
• Seafood Processors: £28,000 – £30,000 /year
• Skilled Fish Filleters: Up to £38,600/year

Read also: Caregiver Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship

How to Check if a Company Can Sponsor Visas

Search the UK’s official Sponsor Licence List here. Enter any of the above-mentioned companies in the search box. If found, proceed to their career page to check for current listings with a visa sponsorship tag. You can also check recruitment boards like;

Indeed UK, Reed, Fish4Jobs, and Totaljobs and search for visa sponsorship to get a list of available roles.

List of Documents Required for Visa Application

• A valid International passport(not expired).
• Proof of qualifications (e.g., certificates, trade test Results, diplomas, or apprenticeship certificate where necessary).
• English language test results 
• Financial evidence(proof that you can cover the cost of your first month in the UK).
• Proof of work experience (e.g., reference letters from previous employer).

How to Apply for Fishmonger and Seafood Processor Jobs In UK with Visa Sponsorship 

• Find a sponsoring employer (check the UK Sponsorship List above and also check the career page of all the above-mentioned companies).
• Apply for the job and secure an offer.
• Collect a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to help you proceed with your visa application.
• Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa online. You can find the link to apply through the UK embassy website.
• Pay visa fees and healthcare surcharge. Some companies may cover this charge depending on the role and how important the job is

Conclusion

Working as a fishmonger or seafood processor in the UK is both a rewarding and challenging career. With visa sponsorship opportunities available, you can pursue your career goals in the UK’s vibrant seafood industry and also diversify into other sectors over time.