Are you dreaming about working and traveling in Europe? Good news! Many countries offer seasonal work visas that allow you to legally live and work for a few months. Whether you want to pick grapes under the Italian sun or work at a ski resort in Austria, this guide will help you get started.
We need to know:
- What a seasonal work visa is
- Top countries hiring seasonal workers in 2025
- Application steps and requirements
- Tips for finding seasonal jobs in Europe
What Is a Seasonal Work Visa?
A seasonal work visa gives people from outside the European Union a chance to work legally for a short time. These jobs usually happen during busy seasons when local workers aren’t enough.
Common industries include:
| Industry | Examples |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Fruit picking, vineyard work |
| Tourism | Hotels, resorts, theme parks |
| Hospitality | Restaurants, ski resorts |
Most visas are valid for 3 to 6 months, but it depends on the country and the job type.
📍 Top European Countries Offering Seasonal Jobs in 2025
Here’s a look at some popular countries where you can find seasonal work next year.
1. Italy
Italy is famous for its agriculture and hospitality jobs. Every year, the government launches the Decreto Flussi program, opening spots for workers from outside Europe.
Types of Work:
- Picking fruits and olives
- Working in hotels, especially in tourist areas
Visa Type:
Decreto Flussi Seasonal Work Visa
Important Tip:
You’ll need a job offer before you apply. Also, showing proof of accommodation is a must!
2. France
Thinking about the French countryside or bustling tourist cities? France offers a Temporary Seasonal Worker Permit allowing you to work up to six months a year.
Types of Work:
- Grape harvesting in vineyards
- Jobs at campsites, hotels, and theme parks
Visa Type:
Travailleur Saisonnière (Seasonal Worker Visa)
Important Tip:
You must apply from your home country before traveling.
3. Spain
Spain needs many workers during harvest seasons and summer tourism peaks, especially in places like Huelva, Murcia, and Costa del Sol.
Types of Work:
- Harvesting strawberries and citrus fruits
- Working at beach resorts and restaurants
Visa Type:
Seasonal Worker Visa (Visado de Trabajo de Temporada)
Important Tip:
Spanish employers often look for people who can speak basic Spanish — even just a little can help!
4. Germany
Germany’s fields and restaurants are bustling from March to October. The country offers 90-day visas for seasonal workers.
Types of Work:
- Picking asparagus, strawberries, and grapes
- Hotel and restaurant staff, especially during festivals
Visa Type:
Seasonal Employment Visa (Saisonarbeitskraft)
Important Tip:
Apply early! Germany has quotas and places fill up fast.
5. Austria
Love mountains and snowy landscapes? Austria is ideal for working in ski resorts and hotels during winter and summer seasons.
Types of Work:
- Hotel jobs in alpine regions
- Ski resort roles (instructors, lodge staff)
- Fruit and vegetable picking
Visa Type:
Seasonal Work Permit (Saisonarbeitsbewilligung)
Important Tip:
German language skills are often preferred, especially for hospitality jobs.
6. Portugal
Portugal’s tourism and agriculture industries are booming. Seasonal jobs are centered around the Algarve coast, Douro Valley, and Alentejo.
Types of Work:
- Harvesting olives, grapes, and blueberries
- Hotel and resort work along the beaches
Visa Type:
Temporary Stay Visa for Seasonal Work
Important Tip:
Tourist hotspots hire a lot in spring and early summer, so start your job search early in the year.
7. Croatia
Croatia’s stunning coastline fills up with visitors every summer, creating huge demand for seasonal workers in hospitality and tourism.
Types of Work:
- Working at hotels, restaurants, and boat tours
- Jobs in entertainment and tourist services
Visa Type:
Seasonal Work Permit
Important Tip:
Croatia’s job market is competitive — having previous experience in customer service gives you an edge!
📄 Basic Requirements for a Seasonal Work Visa
While each country has slightly different rules, here’s what you’ll generally need:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Must cover the entire duration of your stay |
| Health Insurance | Proof of insurance valid in Europe |
| Job Offer | Official contract or letter from employer |
| Accommodation Proof | Where you’ll live during your stay |
| Financial Means | Sometimes you must show you can support yourself |
| Visa Application Form | Completed and signed |
Processing Time:
Usually, it takes around 90 days for visa approval. Some countries may be faster.
Important Note: Denmark and Ireland have their own national rules for seasonal workers. EU-wide regulations don’t apply there.
🔎 How to Find a Seasonal Job in Europe
Finding a good job offer is the first step to getting a visa. Here’s how you can make it easier:
1. Research Countries and Sectors
Think about where you want to go and what kind of job you want. Some places are better for farming, while others focus more on tourism.
2. Use Online Job Portals
Look for websites that specialize in European seasonal jobs, such as:
- EURES (European Job Mobility Portal)
- Seasonalwork.nl
- Agriviva.ch (for agriculture in Switzerland and nearby)
3. Apply Directly
Many hotels, farms, and tourist resorts post seasonal openings on their own websites. Applying directly can sometimes speed up the process.
4. Network and Ask Around
If you know someone who worked seasonally in Europe, ask for tips! Sometimes, former workers can recommend you to employers.
✈️ Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Seasonal Work Visa
Here’s a simple breakdown of the application process:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Find a Job Offer | Make sure you have a written contract |
| Step 2: Gather Your Documents | Passport, insurance, job offer, accommodation proof |
| Step 3: Submit Application | Apply at the country’s embassy or immigration office |
| Step 4: Wait for Approval | Processing can take up to 90 days |
| Step 5: Travel and Start Working! | Once approved, you’re ready to go! |
💬 Final Thoughts
Seasonal work in Europe is a fantastic opportunity to travel, earn money, and gain valuable work experience. Whether you’re helping with grape harvests in France, running a ski lift in Austria, or serving guests at a beach resort in Portugal, there’s a seasonal job out there for you.
Key tips to remember:
- Start early — many jobs are filled months in advance.
- Be organized — missing documents can delay your visa.
- Stay informed — always check the latest visa rules for the country you are applying to.
With the right preparation, 2025 could be the year you work, travel, and make unforgettable memories in Europe!
