How to Get a Seasonal Work Visa for Fruit Picking Jobs in Europe (2025 Update)

Let me share this with you: If you’re looking for real opportunities to work or study abroad, you’re in the right place.

As the demand for fresh produce grows across Europe, so does the need for thousands of seasonal workers every year. Countries like Italy, Spain, France, and Portugal rely heavily on foreign workers to fill short-term labor gaps in agriculture — especially for fruit picking jobs.

If you are looking for a legal way to work in Europe in 2025, applying for a seasonal work visa could be your opportunity. This post explains who qualifies, how to apply, and which countries are actively hiring fruit pickers and farm workers.

Why Consider Seasonal Fruit Picking Jobs in Europe?

Europe’s agricultural sector offers:

• Legal short-term work opportunities
• Free accommodation or subsidized housing in many cases
• Fair wages based on European labor laws
• Cultural exchange experiences
• No long-term commitment required

This makes seasonal work visas in Europe ideal for:

• Students
• Low-skilled workers
• Individuals seeking temporary employment abroad

Top European Countries Hiring Fruit Pickers in 2025

1. Italy – Olive, grape, apple, and citrus harvesting
2. Spain – Strawberries, oranges, grapes, and tomatoes
3. France – Grapes, apples, pears, and berries
4. Portugal – Grapes, olives, and berries
5. Greece – Olives and citrus fruits

Italy and Spain remain the top choices for non-EU workers looking to work in Europe in 2025.

What is a Seasonal Work Visa in Europe?

A seasonal work visa is a temporary permit that allows non-EU citizens to work legally in Europe for a limited period, usually between 3 to 9 months.

It applies to sectors like:

• Agriculture
• Horticulture
• Fruit and vegetable harvesting
• Food processing

After your contract ends, you are expected to return to your home country, but many workers are invited back each season.

General Requirements for a Seasonal Work Visa

Though requirements may vary by country, you typically need:

• A valid passport
• A confirmed job offer from a European employer
• Seasonal work contract specifying duration and wages
• Proof of accommodation provided by the employer
• Travel health insurance
• Proof of return intentions after the job ends

How to Apply for a Seasonal Work Visa for Italy or Spain in 2025

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer

You cannot apply on your own.
A European employer (farm or recruitment agency) must:

• Offer you a valid job contract
• Apply for a work authorization on your behalf through local immigration offices

You can find fruit picking job offers through:

• Official seasonal job portals
• Licensed recruitment agencies
• Agricultural cooperatives in Italy or Spain

Step 2: Employer Applies for Work Authorization

Your employer must apply to the local immigration office (Prefettura in Italy or Oficina de Extranjería in Spain) for work authorization.
Once approved, they will send you the authorization letter needed for your visa application.

Step 3: Apply for the Seasonal Work Visa

You will submit your visa application to the Italian or Spanish embassy/consulate in your home country with:

• Your passport
• The work authorization letter
• Job contract
• Proof of accommodation
• Health insurance
• Visa application fee (usually €60–€100)

Step 4: Attend Your Visa Appointment

Attend the interview at your local embassy or visa center, bringing all your original documents and copies.

Processing usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, but may vary depending on the embassy.

Step 5: Travel to Europe and Begin Work

After receiving your visa:

• Travel to Italy or Spain
• Register your address with the local authorities
• Begin your fruit picking or seasonal job as agreed in your contract

Remember, you cannot switch employers unless authorized and must leave when your contract ends.

Example: Seasonal Work in Italy 2025

Italy offers over 80,000 seasonal work permits annually, especially in:

• Lombardy (apples, pears)
• Sicily and Calabria (oranges, lemons)
• Veneto and Emilia-Romagna (grapes, peaches)

Apply through:

• Italian Ministry of Interior Seasonal Work Portal

Example: Seasonal Work in Spain 2025

Spain’s key hiring regions include:

• Huelva (strawberries, berries)
• Valencia (oranges)
• Murcia (grapes, melons)

Apply through:

• SEPE Spain Official Job Portal

FAQs About Seasonal Work in Europe

Q: Do I need a job offer before applying?
👉 Yes, a job offer and employer sponsorship are required.

Q: How long can I stay in Europe on a seasonal work visa?
👉 Between 3 to 9 months, depending on your contract.

Q: Can I apply again next season?
👉 Yes, many workers return for future seasons.

Q: Can I bring my family with me?
👉 No, seasonal work visas are usually for individuals only.

Q: Do I need to speak Italian or Spanish?
👉 Not mandatory, but basic language skills help with daily communication.

Key Takeaways

• Seasonal fruit picking jobs in Europe offer legal, short-term work for non-EU citizens.
• Countries like Italy and Spain are top destinations for seasonal work in 2025.
• A job offer and employer sponsorship are required to apply.
• Seasonal work visas allow you to work legally for 3 to 9 months.
• This is a great opportunity for earning and gaining international work experience.

Helpful Links

• Make it in Italy – Seasonal Work
• SEPE Spain Job Portal
• European Commission Seasonal Workers Information

Disclaimer

This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please confirm all details with official embassy sources or authorized recruitment agencies. See our Privacy Policy, Disclaimer, and Terms of Use.

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Pro Tip: For the best visa sponsorship jobs and insurance options for immigrants, explore our Visa Sponsorship section and Insurance category.

Written by our team of international travel and visa experts based in Canada. Read more helpful guides like this here.