Seasonal Jobs Abroad 2027: 4 Countries Hiring Foreign Workers Legally, Required Documents and How to Apply

Meryem
13 Nov, 2026


Finding a seasonal job abroad can be an excellent opportunity for foreign workers who want to earn money, gain international work experience and explore new professional opportunities. Every year, several countries recruit temporary workers to fill labour shortages in agriculture, fruit picking, food production, hospitality and tourism.

In 2027, Spain, Italy, France and Canada remain important destinations to consider for people interested in legal seasonal employment. Each country has its own immigration procedures, work permit requirements and recruitment rules for foreign nationals.

Whether you are looking for an agricultural job, a fruit-picking position, vineyard work or a temporary hospitality contract, understanding the application process is essential before starting your journey.

This guide explains the main seasonal work opportunities in these four countries, the documents you may need, the eligibility requirements and the steps to follow when applying for a seasonal work visa in 2027.


Top 4 Countries Offering Legal Seasonal Work Opportunities in 2027

Several countries operate temporary employment systems that allow employers to recruit foreign workers during periods of increased labour demand.

Here is an overview of four destinations worth considering.

1. Spain: Seasonal Agricultural Jobs for Foreign Workers

Spain is one of the European destinations where foreign workers can find seasonal employment opportunities, particularly in agriculture and food production.

Agricultural businesses regularly need additional workers during harvesting periods, especially for fruit picking, vegetable production, packaging and greenhouse activities.

Popular seasonal jobs in Spain include:

  • Fruit Picker

  • Agricultural Worker

  • Vegetable Harvester

  • Greenhouse Worker

  • Farm Labourer

  • Agricultural Packaging Worker

Foreign nationals from outside the European Union generally need an employer-sponsored residence and work authorisation for seasonal employment.

The Spanish seasonal employment system allows qualifying workers to participate in temporary agricultural activities under specific conditions. Some authorisations can cover multiple seasons over a four-year period, with work limited to nine months per calendar year.

Employers must comply with legal requirements concerning employment contracts, accommodation, travel expenses and working conditions.

Applicants must also respect the conditions of their authorisation, including the obligation to return to their country of residence when the authorised employment period ends.

Official websites:


2. Italy: 89,000 Seasonal Work Opportunities Planned for 2027

Italy is another interesting destination for international job seekers because of its Decreto Flussi immigration system.

This government programme regulates the entry of non-EU workers into Italy for temporary and permanent employment, including seasonal recruitment in agriculture and tourism.

For 2027, Italy has planned 89,000 seasonal worker entries in the agricultural and tourism sectors.

The main application dates include:

  • Agricultural seasonal work applications: 12 January 2027.

  • Tourism seasonal work applications: 9 February 2027.

  • General application deadline: 31 December 2027, subject to available quotas and applicable rules.

The pre-filling period for applications is scheduled from 23 October to 7 December 2026.

Popular seasonal positions in Italy include:

  • Agricultural Labourer

  • Fruit Picker

  • Grape Harvester

  • Farm Worker

  • Hotel Housekeeper

  • Kitchen Assistant

  • Restaurant Worker

  • Tourism Assistant

How does the Italian seasonal work system operate?

The process normally starts with an Italian employer who wants to recruit a foreign worker.

The employer must submit an application for a work authorisation, known as Nulla Osta al lavoro, through the official immigration portal of the Italian Ministry of the Interior.

Once the authorisation is approved, the worker can proceed with the seasonal work visa application through the competent Italian embassy or consulate.

Applicants should remember that the availability of quotas does not automatically guarantee employment or visa approval.

Official websites:


3. France: Seasonal Agricultural, Vineyard and Hospitality Jobs

France offers several opportunities for temporary foreign workers, especially during agricultural harvesting periods and the busy tourism season.

Agricultural employers frequently recruit additional workers for grape harvesting, fruit picking, vegetable production and farm activities.

Other opportunities are available in hotels, restaurants, campsites and tourist establishments.

Examples of seasonal jobs in France:

  • Grape Harvester

  • Agricultural Worker

  • Apple Picker

  • Fruit Picker

  • Farm Assistant

  • Hotel Housekeeper

  • Kitchen Assistant

  • Restaurant Worker

  • Seasonal Hospitality Assistant

Foreign nationals who are not EU citizens generally need an appropriate work authorisation and seasonal work visa before starting employment.

The French seasonal worker residence permit allows employment for a maximum of six months within a twelve-month period.

A multi-year seasonal residence permit may be issued for up to three years, subject to the applicable requirements.

The worker must maintain their usual residence outside France and respect the authorised employment periods.

How to apply?

First, find a French employer willing to recruit you for a seasonal position. The employer must complete the necessary work authorisation procedures.

After the required approval, the applicant can submit a visa application through the French consular authorities.

Official websites:


4. Canada: Temporary Agricultural Jobs for International Workers

Canada is also an attractive destination for foreign nationals interested in temporary agricultural employment.

Canadian employers can recruit international workers through specific immigration programmes when they cannot find enough local workers to fill available positions.

Two important recruitment pathways are worth understanding.

Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP)

The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program allows eligible Canadian agricultural employers to hire workers from participating countries under government agreements.

Recruitment is organised through designated authorities and official procedures in participating countries.

It is important to understand that this programme is not open to every nationality worldwide.

Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

Other foreign agricultural workers may be recruited through Canada's Temporary Foreign Worker Program.

In many cases, the employer must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before hiring a foreign worker.

After the necessary approval, the candidate can apply for the appropriate employer-specific work permit.

Popular agricultural jobs in Canada include:

  • General Farm Worker

  • Fruit Picker

  • Vegetable Farm Worker

  • Greenhouse Worker

  • Livestock Farm Worker

  • Agricultural Labourer

  • Farm Equipment Operator

Applicants must satisfy the relevant immigration requirements and obtain the necessary work permit before starting employment.

Official websites:


Who Can Apply for Seasonal Jobs Abroad in 2027?

Seasonal employment is not exclusively reserved for university graduates or highly qualified professionals.

Many employers recruit workers for practical positions that do not require advanced academic qualifications.

The following profiles may be suitable for seasonal employment opportunities.

Applicants Without University Degrees

People without specialised qualifications can look for agricultural labour, harvesting, packaging and general farm work.

Experienced Agricultural Workers

Candidates who have previously worked on farms, plantations, greenhouses or agricultural production sites may have an advantage.

Hospitality and Restaurant Workers

Applicants with experience in hotels, restaurants, cafés and tourism businesses can search for temporary jobs during busy seasons.

Young Job Seekers

Some seasonal positions are suitable for candidates looking for their first international work experience. However, minimum age requirements and other eligibility conditions depend on the destination and employer.

Having no university degree does not mean that a candidate is automatically eligible. Every applicant must meet the immigration and employment requirements of the selected country.


Required Documents for Seasonal Work Visa Applications

Preparing the necessary documents is an important part of the application process.

Although requirements vary between countries, foreign workers are commonly asked to provide several personal and professional documents.

Personal Documents

  • Valid passport.

  • Recent passport-size photographs.

  • Completed visa application form.

  • National identity card, if required.

  • Proof of residence.

  • Birth certificate, if requested by the authorities.

Employment Documents

  • Signed seasonal employment contract.

  • Approved work authorisation, where applicable.

  • Updated professional CV.

  • Previous employment certificates, if available.

  • Educational certificates or professional qualifications, if relevant.

  • Employer information and contact details.

Additional Documents

  • Criminal record certificate, if required.

  • Medical examination certificate, where applicable.

  • Health or travel insurance, depending on visa requirements.

  • Accommodation information, if requested.

  • Proof of payment of visa fees.

  • Certified translations or legalised documents when necessary.

Important: Not every document listed above is compulsory for every application. Candidates should always consult the official checklist provided by the relevant embassy or immigration authority.


How to Apply for Seasonal Jobs Abroad in 2027: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting a seasonal job abroad requires several administrative steps. Following the correct procedure can help applicants avoid unnecessary expenses and application mistakes.

Step 1: Choose Your Destination and Job Sector

Start by selecting a country that matches your professional experience, language skills and employment interests.

For example:

  • Spain: Agriculture, fruit picking and greenhouse work.

  • Italy: Farming, grape harvesting and tourism.

  • France: Vineyard work, fruit picking and hospitality.

  • Canada: Agricultural production, livestock and greenhouse jobs.

Step 2: Find a Legitimate Employer

Search for seasonal vacancies through official employment websites and trusted recruitment channels.

Pay attention to job advertisements that clearly mention the employer's name, workplace location, salary, contract duration, working hours and accommodation conditions.

Step 3: Prepare Your CV and Submit an Application

Create a professional CV adapted to the country where you want to work.

Include your personal information, previous employment experience, practical skills, availability and contact details.

If you have agricultural experience, mention activities such as harvesting, planting, fruit picking, packaging, irrigation and farm maintenance.

Step 4: Receive a Genuine Job Offer

If an employer selects your application, they may send you an employment offer or seasonal work contract.

Before accepting, carefully check the salary, working hours, job responsibilities, contract dates and accommodation arrangements.

Step 5: Obtain the Required Work Authorisation

In countries where prior authorisation is required, the employer must submit the appropriate application to the relevant government authority.

Examples include the Italian Nulla Osta, the French and Spanish work authorisation procedures and the Canadian LMIA process where applicable.

Step 6: Apply for Your Seasonal Work Visa

After the required authorisation has been issued, prepare your visa application.

Book an appointment with the appropriate embassy, consulate or authorised visa application centre.

Submit the required documents and complete biometric procedures when necessary.

Step 7: Travel and Start Working Legally

Once your visa and work authorisation have been approved, you can organise your travel.

After arriving, respect the conditions of your work permit, employment contract and temporary residence authorisation.


Best Websites to Find Seasonal Jobs Abroad in 2027

Using official employment platforms is one of the best ways to find legitimate job opportunities and reduce the risk of recruitment fraud.

Here are useful websites for each destination.

Spain

Italy

France

Canada

Useful Search Keywords for Seasonal Employment

Using the correct search terms can help you discover more relevant vacancies.

Spain:

  • Trabajador agrícola

  • Recolector de frutas

  • Trabajo temporero

Italy:

  • Lavoro stagionale

  • Operaio agricolo

  • Raccolta frutta

France:

  • Ouvrier agricole saisonnier

  • Vendangeur

  • Cueilleur de fruits

Canada:

  • Seasonal Farm Worker

  • Fruit Picker

  • General Farm Worker

  • Greenhouse Worker


How to Avoid Seasonal Job Recruitment Scams

Unfortunately, some fraudulent intermediaries take advantage of people who want to work abroad.

Before accepting an employment offer, follow these important precautions.

Never pay to purchase an employment contract.

Be careful with individuals who demand large payments in exchange for a job offer or guaranteed visa.

Verify the employer's identity.

Check the company's official name, business registration, address and professional contact information.

Check work authorisation documents.

Any document presented as an official immigration approval should be verifiable through the competent government authority.

Avoid guaranteed visa promises.

No private recruitment agency or employer can guarantee that a visa will be approved. The final decision belongs to the immigration authorities.

Read the employment contract carefully.

Check the salary, working hours, overtime conditions, accommodation arrangements and any deductions.

Use official recruitment platforms.

Avoid sending personal documents or financial information to unverified individuals on social media.


Which Country Should You Choose for Seasonal Work in 2027?

The best destination depends on your professional experience, language abilities, financial situation and eligibility for the relevant immigration programme.

Spain may be a suitable option for candidates interested in agricultural harvesting and fruit production.

Italy is worth considering because of its 2027 seasonal recruitment quota of 89,000 entries for agriculture and tourism.

France offers opportunities in vineyards, agricultural production and hospitality, with a seasonal employment framework allowing up to six months of work within twelve months.

Canada is an interesting destination for workers interested in agricultural production, greenhouses and livestock farming, provided they qualify for the relevant temporary work programme.

For applicants living in Morocco, it is particularly important to check the visa application procedures through the competent consular authorities before making travel arrangements.


Frequently Asked Questions About Seasonal Jobs Abroad in 2027


Which countries recruit foreign seasonal workers in 2027?

Spain, Italy, France and Canada all have legal frameworks that allow employers to recruit foreign workers for temporary employment, subject to immigration rules and employer requirements.


Can I apply for seasonal jobs abroad without a university degree?

Yes. Many agricultural positions, including fruit picking, harvesting, packaging and general farm work, do not require a university degree. However, applicants must satisfy the conditions of the job and immigration programme.


Do I need a job contract before applying for a seasonal work visa?

In most of the employment pathways discussed in this article, a valid job offer or employment contract is required before the visa process can be completed. Prior work authorisation may also be necessary.


How long can I work in France as a seasonal worker?

Seasonal employment in France is generally limited to six months within a twelve-month period.


How long can seasonal workers stay in Spain?

Under the Spanish seasonal employment framework, qualifying workers may work for up to nine months per calendar year, subject to the conditions of their authorisation.


How does Italy's seasonal work programme operate in 2027?

Italy uses the Decreto Flussi system to regulate the entry of non-EU workers. The 2027 programme plans 89,000 seasonal entries for agriculture and tourism. Employers must follow the official application calendar and available quotas.


Can Moroccan citizens apply for temporary agricultural jobs in Canada?

Yes. Moroccan citizens may qualify for Canadian temporary work permits if they meet the relevant immigration requirements and obtain a suitable job offer. However, the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program is restricted to citizens of participating countries.


Do I need to speak the local language to get a seasonal job?

Not always. Some agricultural employers recruit workers without requiring advanced language skills. Nevertheless, basic knowledge of Spanish, Italian, French or English can improve communication and help workers adapt to their new workplace.


Does the employer provide free accommodation?

Accommodation arrangements depend on the country, recruitment programme and employment contract. Some programmes impose specific accommodation obligations on employers, while other situations require applicants to verify the housing conditions before accepting an offer.


Can I apply for seasonal work without using a recruitment agency?

Yes. Candidates can contact employers directly through official employment platforms and follow the legal immigration procedures without necessarily using a private agency.

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