If you’re planning to travel to Europe in 2025 for short-term employment, several countries offer seasonal work visas to non-EU citizens. These visas allow you to live and work legally for a few months in sectors like agriculture, hospitality, and tourism, where labor demand peaks during specific seasons.
What Is a Seasonal Work Visa?
A seasonal work visa is a temporary residence and work permit issued to foreign nationals for employment that is limited to certain times of the year, such as fruit harvesting or tourist season jobs. The duration typically ranges from a few weeks to six months, depending on the country and job type.
READ MORE: Pakistan Shines in Times Higher Education Asia Rankings 2025 with 47 Universities Recognized
Top European Countries Offering Seasonal Work Opportunities in 2025
1. Italy
- Program: Decreto Flussi
- Jobs: Fruit picking, vineyard and olive harvesting, hotel and resort roles
- Visa Type: Decreto Flussi Seasonal Work Visa
- Requirements: Job offer, accommodation, passport, health insurance
2. France
- Permit Duration: Up to 6 months per year
- Jobs: Farm labor, grape picking, theme parks, hotel work
- Visa Type: Temporary Seasonal Worker Permit (Travailleur Saisonnière)
- Requirements: Valid work contract, housing, apply from outside France
3. Spain
- Regions: Huelva, Murcia, coastal tourist zones
- Jobs: Citrus and strawberry harvesting, hospitality
- Visa Type: Seasonal Worker Visa (Visado de Trabajo de Temporada)
- Requirements: Employment contract, accommodation, medical insurance
4. Germany
- Duration: Up to 90 days in a 6-month window
- Jobs: Asparagus, strawberry, grape harvesting, restaurant staff
- Visa Type: Seasonal Employment Visa (Saisonarbeitskraft)
- Season: March to October
5. Austria
- Demand: Year-round in mountain regions
- Jobs: Ski resort staff, summer hospitality, farming
- Visa Type: Seasonal Work Permit (Saisonarbeitsbewilligung)
- Requirements: Job contract, proof of housing, health insurance
6. Portugal
- Hotspots: Algarve, Douro Valley
- Jobs: Blueberry and grape picking, hotel and beach resort staffing
- Visa Type: Temporary Stay Visa for Seasonal Work
- Benefits: Good for English speakers, warm climate
7. Croatia
- Peak Season: Summer (coastal tourism)
- Jobs: Hotel workers, restaurant staff, boat tour guides
- Visa Type: Seasonal Work Permit
- Requirements: Employer sponsorship, proof of job offer
General Requirements for a Seasonal Work Visa in Europe
While conditions vary by country, common requirements include:
- A valid passport
- Health insurance
- A job offer or contract
- Proof of housing/accommodation
- Information on wages, working hours, and leave
- Application processing time: Typically up to 90 days
❗ Note: Denmark and Ireland are not part of the EU-wide seasonal worker directive and follow their own visa rules.
How to Find a Seasonal Job in Europe
- Research destinations based on your skills and interest (e.g., farming, tourism)
- Use job portals like EURES, AgriJobs, or local job boards
- Apply directly to employers (hotels, farms, resorts)
- Network with seasonal workers or join expat and job seeker forums
READ MORE: Pakistan Shines in Times Higher Education Asia Rankings 2025 with 47 Universities Recognized
How to Apply for a Seasonal Work Visa – Step by Step
- Secure a job offer from a certified employer
- Gather required documents (passport, job contract, insurance, housing proof)
- Submit your application to the relevant country’s embassy or online portal
- Wait for visa approval (typically within 90 days)
- Travel and start working during the designated season
