Italy is famous not only for its culture, food, and history but also for its agriculture industry. Every year, thousands of foreign workers come to Italy to work on farms, especially during the fruit harvest season. In 2025, many Italian farms are offering seasonal fruit picking jobs with visa sponsorship, making it easier for international workers to come legally and earn money.
This guide explains the job details, salary, visa process, and how to apply for seasonal farm work in Italy.
Why Italy needs seasonal workers
Italy’s farming sector is one of the strongest in Europe. The country produces large amounts of grapes, apples, olives, strawberries, citrus fruits, and kiwis. Harvesting these crops requires many extra workers, especially from spring to late autumn. Local workers are not always enough, so farms depend on foreign workers to complete the harvest.
Job roles and responsibilities
Seasonal fruit picking jobs in Italy are simple and do not require high skills. Main tasks include:
-
Picking fruits from fields, orchards, or vineyards
-
Sorting and grading fruits for quality
-
Packing produce into boxes and containers
-
Cleaning work areas and following farm safety rules
-
Assisting with planting or pruning when needed
Most of the work is outdoors, so you should be prepared for physical activity and working in different weather conditions.
Salary and benefits
The average monthly salary for seasonal fruit pickers in Italy is around €1,000 to €1,500 depending on the region, type of fruit, and farm. Some farms also provide:
-
Free or low-cost accommodation near the farm
-
Free meals or food discounts
-
Transportation to the workplace
-
Overtime pay during peak season
Workers are protected under Italian labor laws, which means they must be paid at least the minimum wage and receive fair working conditions.
Visa sponsorship in Italy 2025
Foreign workers usually need a visa to work in Italy. Seasonal workers are hired through the Decreto Flussi program, which is an annual quota system set by the Italian government.
Key points for the Seasonal Work Visa in Italy 2025:
-
Visa type: Seasonal Work Visa (under Decreto Flussi)
-
Duration: Up to 6–9 months depending on the job and contract
-
Age requirement: Minimum 18 years old
-
Sponsorship: Italian farm employers provide contracts and sponsorship letters
-
Family: Seasonal workers normally cannot bring dependants on this visa
Step-by-step application process
-
Find a job offer – Look for licensed Italian farm employers or recruitment agencies that are part of the Decreto Flussi quota.
-
Get a work contract and sponsorship – The employer will apply for a work permit (nulla osta) on your behalf.
-
Apply for a visa – Once the work permit is approved, you can apply for a seasonal work visa at the Italian embassy in your country.
-
Prepare documents – Passport, job contract, work permit, proof of accommodation (if provided), and financial documents if required.
-
Travel to Italy – After your visa is issued, you can travel and start working during the harvest season.
Best time to apply
Applications for seasonal jobs in Italy usually open when the Decreto Flussi quotas are announced by the Italian government (often at the beginning of the year). It is important to apply early, as spots are limited and highly competitive.
Tips for a safe job search
-
Apply only through official or trusted recruitment channels.
-
Avoid agents who ask for high fees — Italian employers usually cover sponsorship costs.
-
Keep copies of your contract and payslips.
-
Learn basic Italian words for farm work to make your job easier.
Final words
Seasonal fruit picking jobs in Italy with visa sponsorship in 2025 are a great opportunity for international workers. You can earn a good salary, gain European work experience, and enjoy the beautiful Italian countryside while working.
If you want to apply, watch for the Decreto Flussi quota announcement, find a licensed employer, and complete your visa process early to secure your place.