Italy is globally famous for Gucci, Versace, Armani, and Ferrari, but beyond luxury brands, the country is one of Europe’s agricultural powerhouses. Italy produces world-class grapes, olives, wine, apples, oranges, wheat, and vegetables, making fruit farming a backbone of its rural economy.
With more than 1.1 million farms covering over 12.6 million hectares, Italy relies heavily on family-owned farms for harvesting and packing fresh produce. Due to an aging population, low birth rate, and worker migration to other EU countries, Italy continues to face a serious labour shortage. To fill this gap, the government is actively offering visa sponsorship for foreign workers—especially in agriculture.
This 2026 updated guide explains everything you need to know about Fruit Picking and Packing Jobs in Italy with Visa Sponsorship, even if you have no experience or formal education.
Job Overview
- Country: Italy
- Industry: Agriculture
- Job Type: Fruit Picking & Packing
- Experience Required: No
- Education Required: No
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes
- Job Nature: Seasonal & Long-Term Options Available
These jobs are ideal for foreigners looking for legal European work, free accommodation, and simple entry requirements.
Why Italy Needs Foreign Fruit Pickers in 2026
Italy’s agricultural sector has struggled to find local workers since 2022 due to:
- Aging rural population
- Low birth rates
- Migration of young Italians to Germany, France, and the UK
As a result, Italy continues to sponsor foreign workers in agriculture, healthcare, IT, and scientific sectors, with fruit picking being one of the easiest jobs to enter.
Requirements for Fruit Picking & Packing Jobs in Italy (2026)
To apply for these jobs, you generally need:
Legal Work Authorization
A valid Italian work visa if you are a non-EU citizen.
Language Skills
Basic English is required. Italian is helpful but not mandatory.
Physical Fitness
Farm work involves standing, walking, lifting baskets, and working outdoors.
Experience (Optional)
Prior experience in farming, viticulture, or animal care is a plus—but not required.
Accommodation Proof
Often provided by employers; otherwise, proof may be required.
Proof of Funds
To support yourself during the initial period in Italy.
Are Fruit Farm Jobs in Italy Permanent?
Fruit picking jobs in Italy can be seasonal or long-term, depending on the farm.
- Seasonal Worker Visa: Allows work for up to 9 months
- Type D Italian Work Visa: Allows residence for up to 5 years and the ability to work on multiple farms
Many workers start seasonally and later transition to longer-term opportunities.
Italy Seasonal Worker Visa (2026)
Italy uses an annual quota system for seasonal workers.
Key Steps:
Work Authorization
Your Italian employer applies for approval at the local Immigration One-Stop Shop (Prefettura).
Entry Visa
Once approved, you apply for a seasonal work visa at the Italian embassy.
Residence Permit
Apply within 8 days of arrival in Italy.
Fees (Approximate):
- Visa fee: €116
- Residence permit:
- €40 (3–12 months)
- €50 (12–24 months)
- €100 (long-term permits)
Average Salary of Fruit Pickers in Italy (2026)
- Hourly Rate: Around €8
- Monthly Earnings: €1,200 – €1,600 (depending on hours)
- Experienced Workers: Can earn more
- Overtime: Often available during peak harvest season
Accommodation and food benefits significantly reduce living costs.
What Is Farm Life Like in Italy?
Most fruit picking jobs are on private family-owned farms.
Living Conditions:
- Free or low-cost accommodation
- Free Wi-Fi
- Shared or private rooms
Food:
- Free meals or ingredients provided
- Fresh vegetables, eggs, fruits, and dairy often included
Training:
- Full training provided for beginners
- Language learning opportunities (Italian, Spanish, German, French)
Seasonal Work Timeline on Italian Fruit Farms
- March – April: Training on young trees
- May – July: Fruit thinning, pruning, irrigation, nutrition control
- July – December: Harvesting, packing, post-harvest pruning
- Year-Round Tasks: Tree health monitoring and daily planning
Where to Find Fruit Picking Jobs in Italy (2026)
You can apply through official and trusted platforms:
EURES (EU Official Job Portal)
Search agricultural jobs and select Italy as the country.
FarmJobs Italy
Upload your CV and get matched directly with Italian farmers.
Coldiretti – Job in the Country
Register as a worker and allow farms to contact you.
Agrijob (Confagricoltura)
Specialized agricultural job platform.
CIA – Agricoltori Italiani
Register your profile and wait for job offers.
Final Thoughts
Fruit Picking and Packing Jobs in Italy with Visa Sponsorship in 2026 are among the best entry-level jobs in Europe. With no experience required, free accommodation, and legal visa pathways, these jobs are ideal for foreigners seeking a fresh start.
If you’re ready to work outdoors, learn new skills, and experience authentic Italian farm life, Italy is waiting for you. Start preparing now and take your first step toward working in Europe.