Top Countries Offering Seasonal Agricultural Jobs for Foreign Workers in 2025
Introduction
Seasonal agricultural jobs have become a major employment opportunity for foreign workers around the world. In 2025, many countries continue to rely on temporary labor to support their farming sectors—especially during peak planting and harvesting periods. Whether you're seeking hands-on farming experience, a new income stream, or a temporary job abroad, here are the top countries welcoming seasonal agricultural workers in 2025.
1. United States – H-2A Visa Program
The United States remains a leading destination for seasonal farm workers. The H-2A visa allows foreign nationals to work in agriculture for a limited time, typically tied to planting or harvesting seasons.
🔹 Highlights:
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Work on fruit, vegetable, tobacco, or livestock farms
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Contracts usually range from 3 to 10 months
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Employers must provide housing and transportation
🔹 Challenges:
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Physically demanding work
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Competitive application process
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Seasonal and non-renewable
2. Canada – Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
Canada’s growing agriculture sector depends on the TFWP, which brings in thousands of foreign workers each year to help with tasks such as fruit picking, greenhouse labor, and livestock care.
🔹 Highlights:
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Opportunities in Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec
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Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) available for select countries
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Workers may qualify for permanent residency pathways
🔹 Challenges:
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Harsh weather in some regions
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Limited access to services in rural areas
3. Australia – Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme
Australia offers seasonal agricultural work under the PALM scheme, which connects workers from Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste with farming employers.
🔹 Highlights:
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Work in fruit picking, cane cutting, and packing
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Contracts range from a few weeks to 9 months
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Focus on fair pay and skills development
🔹 Challenges:
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Remote job sites
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Adjustment to Australian climate and culture
4. New Zealand – Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Program
New Zealand’s RSE program is well-known for its organized system and focus on horticulture and viticulture. Workers from Pacific nations are eligible for seasonal farm jobs.
🔹 Highlights:
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Work in vineyards, orchards, and packhouses
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Strong worker protections and employer accountability
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Up to 7-month contracts
🔹 Challenges:
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High cost of living
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Limited spots per country
5. Spain – Seasonal Farm Jobs in Andalusia and Valencia
Spain's fruit and vegetable industries hire thousands of temporary workers each year, especially during the spring and summer harvests.
🔹 Highlights:
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Major crops: strawberries, oranges, olives, grapes
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High demand for labor in southern regions
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Mediterranean climate is favorable
🔹 Challenges:
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Jobs often involve long hours under the sun
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Limited English spoken in rural areas
6. Italy – Opportunities Through Rural Cooperatives
Italy offers seasonal jobs in agriculture through local cooperatives, especially in the regions of Puglia, Sicily, and Emilia-Romagna.
🔹 Highlights:
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Work in vineyards, olive groves, and tomato farms
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Seasonal contracts under EU and national labor laws
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Rich cultural experience
🔹 Challenges:
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Bureaucratic visa process
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Need for basic Italian language skills
7. The Netherlands – High-Tech Agricultural Work
Though smaller in land size, the Dutch agriculture sector is one of the most advanced globally, offering jobs in greenhouses and vegetable production.
🔹 Highlights:
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Organized and modern working environments
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High demand for workers in greenhouses and flower farms
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Opportunities available year-round
🔹 Challenges:
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Cost of living is relatively high
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Limited availability for non-EU citizens
8. Germany – Short-Term Agricultural Jobs
Germany provides short-term farm work for both EU and non-EU citizens, particularly during asparagus and berry harvests.
🔹 Highlights:
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Work periods range from a few weeks to 3 months
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Reliable contracts and regulated wages
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Clean and structured farm conditions
🔹 Challenges:
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Basic German may be required
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Jobs are often physically demanding
Tips Before Applying
✅ Always check the official immigration website of the country.
✅ Use authorized recruiters or government programs.
✅ Prepare for physical labor and long working hours.
✅ Learn basic language skills for smoother communication.
✅ Ensure your employer provides housing and transport, if required.
Conclusion
Seasonal agricultural jobs offer a practical way for foreign workers to earn income, gain international experience, and contribute to global food production. In 2025, countries like the U.S., Canada, Australia, and several European nations continue to welcome temporary workers—each with its own system, benefits, and challenges.
By understanding visa requirements, work conditions, and employer expectations, foreign workers can make informed choices and enjoy a rewarding seasonal employment experience abroad.