Italy is globally renowned for its agriculture, especially fruit production, alongside its rich culture and lifestyle. Every year, Italian farms urgently need seasonal foreign workers to support fruit harvesting and packing activities across regions such as Tuscany, Sicily, and Puglia.
Through the Decreto Flussi program, Italy officially welcomes thousands of non-EU workers for visa-sponsored agricultural jobs. These roles require no advanced education or experience, only physical fitness, reliability, and willingness to work outdoors.
In return, workers earn €900–€1,200 per month, often with free or subsidized accommodation, meals, and transport, making these jobs one of the most affordable and legal ways to work in Europe.
Why Work in Fruit Picking Jobs in Italy?
Italy is among Europe’s top fruit exporters, producing grapes, apples, oranges, peaches, strawberries, cherries, and olives. Because farming is seasonal and physically demanding, farms rely heavily on foreign workers.
Key Reasons to Choose Italy
- Legal visa sponsorship under Decreto Flussi
- No degree or professional skills required
- Stable seasonal income
- Low living costs due to free housing
- Opportunity to experience Italian culture
- Potential pathway to repeat or long-term work
Why Is There High Demand for Fruit Pickers in Italy?
1. Seasonal Harvest Cycles
Different fruits are harvested throughout the year, requiring large temporary workforces during peak seasons.
2. Strong Export Market
Italy exports fruits across Europe and globally, increasing the need for efficient harvesting and packing labor.
3. Local Labor Shortage
Many Italian residents avoid physically demanding farm work, increasing reliance on non-EU seasonal workers.
4. Growth of Organic Farming
Organic and eco-friendly farms require manual harvesting, creating more labor-intensive roles.
Types of Fruit Picking & Packing Jobs in Italy
Fruit Picker
- Hand-pick fruits (apples, grapes, strawberries, olives)
- Select ripe produce only
- Meet daily harvesting targets
Fruit Packer
- Sort and package fruits
- Prepare products for shipping
- Work in warehouses or on farms
Farm Laborer
- Assist with pruning, irrigation, loading
- Support general farm operations
Quality Control Worker
- Inspect fruit quality
- Grade produce by size and condition
Tractor / Forklift Operator
- Transport harvested fruit
- Requires relevant license (higher pay)
Salary Expectations
| Role | Monthly Salary |
|---|---|
| Fruit Picker | €900 – €1,100 |
| Fruit Packer | €950 – €1,200 |
| Farm Laborer | €900 – €1,150 |
| Machinery Operator | €1,200+ |
Overtime and bonuses may apply during peak harvest periods.
Job Benefits
- Visa Sponsorship (Seasonal Work Visa)
- Free or Subsidized Accommodation
- Meals or Food Allowance
- Transport to Work Sites
- Overtime Pay
- No Education Requirement
- Multicultural Work Environment
- Possibility of Repeat Contracts
Requirements for Fruit Picking Jobs in Italy
Basic Eligibility
- Age: 18–50 years (varies by employer)
- Good physical fitness
- Ability to work long hours outdoors
- Willingness to perform manual labor
Language Skills
- Italian not mandatory
- Basic English or Italian helpful
Experience
- Not required (training provided)
- Prior farm work is an advantage
Visa Eligibility
- Valid passport
- Employer sponsorship
- Clean criminal record
Duties of Fruit Pickers
- Harvest fruits carefully
- Sort and grade produce
- Load fruits into containers
- Follow hygiene and safety rules
- Use ladders or tools when needed
Duties of Fruit Packers
- Wash and clean produce
- Sort by size and quality
- Package and label goods
- Maintain cleanliness of workstations
Visa Requirements (Decreto Flussi)
To work legally, you need a Seasonal Agricultural Work Visa.
Step-by-Step Process
- Job Offer from Italian Employer
- Employer applies for Nulla Osta (Work Authorization)
- Application submitted under Decreto Flussi quota
- Apply at Italian Embassy with:
- Passport
- Job contract
- Nulla Osta
- Accommodation proof
- Medical & police clearance (if requested)
- Enter Italy and apply for Permesso di Soggiorno Stagionale
Quotas usually open January–March, so early application is essential.
Main Job Locations
Tuscany
- Grape harvesting
- Olive orchards
- Vineyard work
Sicily
- Citrus fruit farms
- Tomato and orange packing
Puglia
- Olive and cherry orchards
- Large seasonal labor demand
How to Apply for Fruit Picking Jobs in Italy
- Monitor Decreto Flussi announcements
- Find employer-sponsored jobs via:
- Licensed recruitment agencies
- Agricultural job portals
- Secure job offer
- Employer applies for Nulla Osta
- Apply for visa at Italian embassy
- Travel and begin work legally
Conclusion
Fruit picking and packing jobs in Italy with visa sponsorship offer one of the most accessible legal work opportunities in Europe. With no education requirements, competitive seasonal wages, free accommodation, and cultural exposure, these roles are ideal for international job seekers.
If you’re physically fit, motivated, and ready for a rewarding experience, Italy’s agricultural sector welcomes you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for fruit-picking jobs in Italy?
Good physical health, visa eligibility, and willingness to work outdoors. Language skills are helpful but not mandatory.
How much can I earn?
Between €900 and €1,200 per month, often with free housing and meals.
Is visa sponsorship guaranteed?
Yes, jobs are issued under Decreto Flussi, which legally supports foreign workers.
