Seasonal Work Visas in Europe 2025: Where You Can Work and What to Expect
If you’re planning a short-term move to Europe for employment, several countries offer seasonal work visas to non-EU nationals. These visas allow legal residence and work during peak demand periods in industries such as agriculture, tourism, and hospitality.
What Is a Seasonal Work Visa?
A seasonal work visa allows foreign workers to take up temporary employment during specific seasons, typically in farming, tourism, or other industries that rely on short-term labor. These visas are valid for a few months, depending on the country and job sector.
Read More: Top 10 Countries Offering the Best Employment Opportunities and High Salaries
Top European Countries Offering Seasonal Jobs in 2025
Italy
- Program: Decreto Flussi
- Visa: Seasonal Work Visa
- Jobs: Fruit picking, vineyard/olive harvesting, hotel and resort positions
- Requirements: Job offer, accommodation, application through Decreto Flussi quota system
France
- Visa: Temporary Seasonal Worker Permit (Travailleur Saisonnière)
- Jobs: Farm labor, grape picking, hotel and theme park staff
- Stay Duration: Up to 6 months annually
- Requirements: Valid contract, housing, apply from abroad
Spain
- Visa: Seasonal Worker Visa (Visado de Trabajo de Temporada)
- Jobs: Citrus and strawberry harvesting, beach resort hospitality
- Regions: Huelva, Murcia
- Requirements: Job contract, accommodation
Germany
- Visa: Seasonal Employment Visa (Saisonarbeitskraft)
- Jobs: Harvesting (asparagus, grapes, strawberries), restaurant/festival staffing
- Validity: Up to 90 days in a six-month period
- Season: March to October
Austria
- Visa: Seasonal Work Permit (Saisonarbeitsbewilligung)
- Jobs: Ski resort hospitality, summer hotel jobs, fruit/vegetable farming
- Regions: Mountainous areas
Portugal
- Visa: Temporary Stay Visa for Seasonal Work
- Jobs: Blueberry and grape harvesting, resort and hotel roles
- Regions: Algarve, Douro Valley
Croatia
- Visa: Seasonal Work Permit
- Jobs: Tourism services, restaurant and hotel jobs, boat tour operations
- Peak Season: Summer months
General Requirements for a Seasonal Work Visa
While each country has its own process, most require:
- A valid passport
- Health insurance
- A job offer or signed contract
- Accommodation proof
- Salary and job details
Processing Time: Usually up to 90 days
Note: Ireland and Denmark have their own visa rules, as they are not part of the EU-wide seasonal work directive.
How to Find a Seasonal Job in Europe
- Research target countries and sectors in demand
- Use job portals and seasonal job boards
- Apply directly to farms, hotels, or resorts
- Network with people already working in your desired industry
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a Seasonal Work Visa
- Secure a job offer
- Collect required documents (passport, contract, insurance, etc.)
- Submit application to the national embassy or visa center
- Wait for approval
- Travel and start working
