The France Seasonal Work Visa lets non-EU nationals work up to 6 months in any 12-month period in agriculture, vineyards, hospitality and tourism — paying roughly €1,350–€1,800 per month with minimal experience required. You need a confirmed job offer and employer labor authorization first. Full 2026 process below.
If you’re weighing alternatives, compare this route with our guide to Norway seasonal worker visa.
Dreaming of spending a few months in France while earning an income? The France Seasonal Work Visa allows non-EU nationals to work temporarily in sectors such as agriculture, hospitality, tourism, and vineyard work across the country. Most positions are full-time and on-site, providing the chance to experience French culture while gaining practical skills.
Salaries typically range between €1,350 and €1,800 per month, depending on the employer and sector. Minimal prior experience is needed, making these roles ideal for students, travelers, or anyone seeking short-term work with legal visa sponsorship.
Why Apply for the France Seasonal Work Visa?
- Access to Seasonal Job Opportunities: Work in high-demand areas such as vineyards, farms, hotels, and restaurants.
- Flexible Duration: Up to six months within a 12-month period, ideal for peak seasons.
- Renewal Potential: Many employers allow renewal for multiple consecutive seasons.
- Legal Employment: Enjoy protections under French labor laws, including safe working conditions and fair wages.
- Healthcare & Social Services: Access public healthcare and basic social services during your stay.
Popular Seasonal Jobs in France
For more options in the same region, see our full breakdown of skilled worker shortages in Europe.
France offers a wide variety of temporary positions for foreign workers:
- Agricultural Jobs: Fruit and vegetable pickers, vineyard workers, and farm laborers.
- Hospitality Jobs: Cleaners, hotel staff, restaurant staff, and campsite assistants.
- Tourism & Recreation: Ski instructors, lifeguards, and camp leaders.
- Other Seasonal Roles: Event staff or temporary assistants in local festivals.
Labor Market Insight:
- Approximately 149,100 seasonal workers are expected to be hired in agriculture, including crop pickers, horticulturists, and winegrowers.
- 88,200 positions are available for farmers and agricultural laborers.
Salary Expectations
- Agriculture & Vineyard Work: €1,350–€1,600 per month
- Hospitality & Tourism Roles: €1,400–€1,800 per month
- Ski and Recreation Jobs: €1,500–€1,800 per month
Pay depends on experience, sector, and employer, with additional benefits like accommodation sometimes included.
Requirements for the France Seasonal Work Visa
- Valid Job Offer: You must have a confirmed offer from a French employer specifying your role, duties, and duration.
- Employer Authorization: Your employer must obtain permission from the French Ministry of Labor or Pôle emploi, proving no suitable EU worker is available.
- Work Permit Approval: After authorization, the French employer will secure a work permit for you.
- Visa Application: Apply for a long-stay visa (Type D) at the French embassy or consulate in your home country.
Documents Required
- Valid passport
- Job offer letter
- Work permit approval
- Proof of accommodation (if required)
- Medical insurance covering your stay
- Proof of sufficient financial resources
- Completed visa application form with fee payment
Visa Duration & Cost
- Valid for up to six months within 12 months
- Visa fee: €99 (for temporary residency and the seasonal work visa)
- Renewal possible for subsequent seasonal employment with the same employer
Application Process
- Search for Jobs: Use reliable platforms like Pôle Emploi, AuPair.com, Le Bon Coin, Monster France, CCUSA, or Indeed France.
- Secure a Job Offer: Employer provides an offer and applies for a work permit on your behalf.
- Apply for the Visa: Submit your long-stay visa application at the French embassy or consulate.
- Attend Interview/Submit Documents: Complete the online or in-person visa process.
Note: You must apply for a new work permit and visa if you switch employers or jobs.
Conclusion
The France Seasonal Work Visa is an excellent opportunity for non-EU nationals to gain work experience, earn an income, and immerse themselves in French culture. Jobs in agriculture, hospitality, tourism, and vineyards are readily available with minimal prior experience.
Seasonal work in France not only provides legal employment but also opens doors for future long-term visas or permanent residency pathways.
Applicants exploring this option often also read our guide on top countries offering seasonal work visas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the France Seasonal Work Visa?
Non-EU nationals with a confirmed seasonal job offer from a French employer are eligible. Typical roles include fruit and vegetable pickers, vineyard workers, hotel and restaurant staff, ski instructors and festival assistants, and minimal prior experience is required for most positions.
How long is the France Seasonal Work Visa valid?
The visa allows up to 6 months of seasonal work within any 12-month period, making it ideal for peak agricultural and tourism seasons. Many employers renew contracts for consecutive seasons, which can build toward longer-term French visa or residency options over time.
How much do seasonal workers earn in France in 2026?
Seasonal pay typically ranges from €1,350 to €1,800 per month, with agriculture and vineyard work at €1,350–€1,600 and hospitality, tourism and ski roles at €1,400–€1,800. Pay depends on the sector, experience and employer, and some positions include accommodation as an added benefit.
How much does the France Seasonal Work Visa cost?
The long-stay visa fee is €99, which covers both the temporary residency visa and the seasonal work authorization. Beyond the fee, your employer must obtain labor-market authorization from the French Ministry of Labor or Pôle emploi before you apply at the French embassy.
For a related pathway, see UK Seasonal Worker visa — requirements, costs and timelines explained.
Before you decide, review UK Seasonal Worker visa extension to compare requirements side by side.
