Introduction
Agriculture is one of France’s oldest and most important industries, and it heavily relies on seasonal workers to harvest crops, manage vineyards, and support food production. In 2026, the demand for agricultural labor remains high, offering opportunities for foreigners seeking short-term work, income, and cultural experience. Agricultural seasonal work is especially popular among students, travelers, and temporary workers from outside France. However, working legally requires understanding visa requirements, contracts, and application procedures. This guide provides a complete overview of agricultural seasonal work in France and how to apply successfully.
Who Can Do Agricultural Seasonal Work in France?
- EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: Can work freely without a visa or work permit.
- Non-EU Citizens: Must obtain a seasonal work visa or specific work authorization before starting employment. Employers often assist with the application process, especially for farm work.
Types of Agricultural Seasonal Jobs
- Fruit and Vegetable Harvesting
- Pick apples, cherries, grapes, strawberries, and other fruits.
- Harvest vegetables such as tomatoes, lettuce, and carrots.
- Jobs may involve long hours outdoors and manual labor.
- Vineyard Work
- Tasks include grape picking, pruning, and maintaining vineyards.
- Seasonal demand peaks during the harvest season (vendanges).
- Greenhouse and Nursery Work
- Planting, watering, and caring for flowers, vegetables, and seedlings.
- Often requires attention to detail and basic plant care knowledge.
- Livestock and Dairy Farm Work
- Feeding animals, cleaning barns, and assisting with milking.
- Experience with animals is an advantage but not always mandatory.
Requirements to Work in Agricultural Seasonal Jobs
- Age and Health
- Minimum age is usually 18, although some farms hire younger workers with parental consent.
- Physical fitness is important as work is often strenuous and outdoors.
- Language Skills
- Basic French is helpful for understanding instructions, safety rules, and communicating with coworkers.
- English is sometimes sufficient in larger farms or tourist-focused agricultural areas.
- Work Visa for Non-EU Citizens
- Non-EU workers must secure a seasonal work visa from the French consulate in their home country.
- Employers provide a job offer and supporting documents for the visa application.
- Employment Contract
- Seasonal agricultural workers must have a CDD (Contrat à Durée Déterminée) specifying the duration, tasks, and wages.
- Contracts often include details about accommodation and work hours.
How to Apply for Agricultural Seasonal Jobs in France
- Search Online Job Portals
- Websites like Indeed, Workaway, HelpX, SeasonWorkers, and Pôle Emploi list seasonal agricultural positions.
- Job postings usually indicate accommodation availability, contract type, and duration.
- Contact Farms Directly
- Many farms accept direct applications via email or phone.
- A CV highlighting physical stamina, prior farm experience, and language skills increases your chances.
- Use Recruitment Agencies
- Some agencies specialize in seasonal labor for agriculture and can help non-EU workers with visa sponsorship.
- They also guide applicants through paperwork and legal requirements.
- Network and Expat Communities
- Online forums, social media groups, and international student organizations often share seasonal job leads and tips.
- Networking can help secure positions before the peak harvest season.
Salary and Work Conditions
- Hourly Wage: €10 – €13 per hour, often slightly higher in vineyards or specialized farms.
- Monthly Pay: €1,700 – €2,300 for full-time seasonal work.
- Accommodation: Some farms provide free housing or meals.
- Work Hours: Typically 35–45 hours per week, with possible overtime during peak harvest.
- Work Environment: Outdoor work, exposure to weather conditions, and physically demanding tasks.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply Early: Peak harvest seasons fill quickly, so start searching months in advance.
- Highlight Physical Fitness: Emphasize your ability to work long hours outdoors.
- Show Reliability and Adaptability: Employers value workers who are punctual, adaptable, and willing to perform various tasks.
- Prepare Documents: CV, passport, visa application (if non-EU), and any certifications related to farming.
- Consider Group Applications: Some farms hire multiple seasonal workers, so applying as a group or through agencies can increase success.
Best Locations for Agricultural Seasonal Work
- Bordeaux and Loire Valley: Vineyards and wine production.
- Provence: Fruit orchards, lavender farms, and vineyards.
- Normandy: Apple orchards and dairy farms.
- Occitanie and Languedoc-Roussillon: Vegetable and fruit harvesting.
- Northern France: Berry picking, vegetable farming, and large agricultural cooperatives.
Conclusion
Agricultural seasonal work in France offers foreigners a chance to earn income, gain experience, and explore rural life. Popular roles include fruit and vegetable picking, vineyard work, greenhouse maintenance, and livestock care. Legal employment requires a CDD contract and, for non-EU citizens, a seasonal work visa. By applying early, targeting high-demand regions, and preparing documentation, foreign workers can secure seasonal positions and enjoy a unique experience in France’s agricultural sector.