Europe is opening its doors wider to foreign workers through new and improved seasonal work visa programs, creating fresh pathways for individuals from outside the European Union to secure employment across a range of sectors. With growing labor shortages in key industries, many countries are actively seeking workers to fill temporary roles during peak seasons, particularly between March and October.

These seasonal work visas allow foreign nationals to live and work in European countries for a specific period, typically aligned with the busiest times for agriculture, tourism, and hospitality. Whether picking fruits in Italy’s vineyards, assisting in bustling French resorts, or supporting Germany’s agricultural harvests, opportunities abound for those ready to seize them.

Understanding how to navigate these visa procedures can make a significant difference for job seekers aiming to tap into Europe’s seasonal employment market. This report explores some of the most accessible options and outlines the requirements and timelines applicants should expect in 2025.

What Is a Seasonal Work Visa?

A seasonal work visa is a temporary permit that allows non-EU nationals to engage in employment linked to specific times of the year when labor demand peaks. These jobs are usually short-term and last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the employer’s needs and the nature of the work.

Key sectors that rely heavily on seasonal workers include:

• Agriculture: fruit harvesting, vegetable picking, vineyard work.

• Tourism: hotel staffing, resort management, tour operations.

• Hospitality: restaurants, cafes, event planning, and entertainment services.

Importantly, these visas typically do not lead to permanent residency. They are designed to meet temporary labor demands while providing valuable work experience and income opportunities for foreign nationals.

Basic Requirements for a Seasonal Work Visa

While each country sets its own specific rules, several core requirements are common across Europe. Applicants generally must provide:

• A valid passport or travel document.

• Proof of a job offer or official employment contract.

• Proof of accommodation for the duration of stay.

• Evidence of health insurance coverage valid in the host country.

• Details of salary, working hours, and leave entitlements as outlined in the employment contract.

Authorities may also request a clean criminal record and sufficient financial resources to support the applicant before starting work.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Seasonal Work Visa?

The processing time for seasonal work visas typically falls within 90 days, although this can vary depending on the country and the applicant’s individual circumstances. It is crucial to apply early and monitor updates from each country’s immigration authority, as seasonal hiring periods can be highly competitive.

Top 7 European Countries Offering Seasonal Work Visas in 2025

Here are seven countries leading the way with attractive seasonal work opportunities for foreign nationals:

1. Italy

Type of Visa: Decreto Flussi Seasonal Work Visa
Seasonal Sectors: Agriculture (fruit harvesting, olive picking, vineyard work) and Tourism (hotels, resorts)

Italy operates an annual immigration program known as the Decreto Flussi, setting quotas for non-EU seasonal workers. Thousands of permits are allocated yearly for agriculture and hospitality sectors. Applicants must secure a confirmed job offer and proof of accommodation before applying. Italy remains one of the most accessible and popular destinations for seasonal agricultural work in Europe.

2. France

Type of Visa: Temporary Seasonal Worker Permit (Travailleur Saisonnière)
Seasonal Sectors: Agriculture (grape harvesting, farm labor) and Tourism (theme parks, hotels, campsites)

France offers a highly flexible seasonal worker permit that allows foreign nationals to work for up to six months in a calendar year. Applicants must apply from their home country and provide a valid employment contract. France’s scenic wine regions, coastal resorts, and summer festivals create thousands of temporary job opportunities annually.

3. Spain

Type of Visa: Seasonal Worker Visa (Visado de Trabajo de Temporada)
Seasonal Sectors: Agriculture (strawberries, citrus fruit) and Hospitality (restaurants, coastal resorts)

Spain’s vibrant agricultural sector, especially in Huelva and Murcia, offers extensive opportunities for seasonal workers during the harvest periods. Additionally, the bustling tourist areas along the Costa del Sol require seasonal staff for hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues during the busy summer months.

4. Germany

Type of Visa: Seasonal Employment Visa (Saisonarbeitskraft)
Seasonal Sectors: Agriculture (asparagus, strawberries, grapes) and Hospitality (hotels, festivals)

Germany allows seasonal workers to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Most seasonal roles are available between March and October, coinciding with the agricultural harvests and major tourist seasons in regions like Bavaria. Applicants need to present a valid job offer and demonstrate sufficient financial means to support their stay.

5. Austria

Type of Visa: Seasonal Work Permit (Saisonarbeitsbewilligung)
Seasonal Sectors: Ski resorts (winter), Hotels and restaurants (summer and winter), and Agriculture (fruit and vegetable harvesting)

Austria’s breathtaking alpine resorts and vibrant agricultural sector offer year-round seasonal opportunities. From working at ski resorts in winter to staffing hotels during summer hiking season, Austria remains a favorite among seasonal workers who enjoy scenic environments combined with strong labor protections.

6. Portugal

Type of Visa: Temporary Stay Visa for Seasonal Work
Seasonal Sectors: Agriculture (blueberries, olives, grapes) and Tourism (beach resorts, hotels)

Portugal’s sunny climate and booming tourism industry create significant demand for seasonal labor, particularly in regions such as the Algarve, Alentejo, and the Douro Valley. Agricultural harvest seasons, particularly for grapes and olives, run from late summer through early autumn.

7. Croatia

Type of Visa: Seasonal Work Permit
Seasonal Sectors: Hospitality (hotels, restaurants) and Tourism services (boat tours, entertainment)

Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coastline transforms into a major tourist destination every summer. Resorts, restaurants, and entertainment companies regularly hire thousands of foreign seasonal workers. A valid employment contract and proof of accommodation are critical for obtaining the visa.

Final Thoughts: A Growing Gateway for International Workers

Seasonal work visas offer a dynamic entry point for non-EU nationals seeking short-term employment, European work experience, and an opportunity to immerse themselves in different cultures. As European countries face continued labor shortages in agriculture, hospitality, and tourism, these programs provide win-win solutions for both employers and foreign workers.

With application windows opening soon, interested applicants are advised to start preparing early—securing job offers, gathering necessary documents, and staying updated with each country’s immigration guidelines. For many, a seasonal work visa could be the first step toward broader opportunities in Europe’s evolving job market.