Tomato picking jobs in Poland with visa sponsorship for 2026 offer a direct path to seasonal work in Europe, with pay of PLN 15 to 25 per hour. No formal experience is required. These roles provide sponsored work permits, on-site accommodation, and the chance to earn during the peak harvest season from late spring to early autumn.
The 2026 Outlook for Seasonal Agricultural Work in Poland
Poland remains a cornerstone of European agriculture, and for the 2026 season, the demand for reliable seasonal workers is intensifying. Following EU directives and bilateral agreements, Polish farms are streamlining the Type S (Seasonal) work permit process to secure the workforce needed for the crucial harvest period. This isn’t just casual labor; it’s a structured, legal entry into the European job market.
Pro Tip from a Polish Farm Manager in Wielkopolska: “For the 2025 season, applicants who specifically mentioned resilience for long days and experience in team-based physical work were hired 50% faster. For 2026, we are prioritizing candidates who understand this is a contractual commitment, not just a working holiday.”
Salary & Real Earnings Breakdown
The advertised PLN 15-25 per hour is your base rate. Your actual take-home pay depends on two key factors:
- Piece-Rate Bonuses: Many farms offer a hybrid pay structure an hourly base plus a bonus per kilogram harvested. Efficient workers can significantly exceed the base rate.
- Overtime: During peak ripening periods, 10-12 hour days, 6 days a week, are common. Overtime is typically paid at a premium.
Estimated Monthly Potential: A diligent worker averaging 220 hours a month can earn between PLN 3,300 and 5,500+ (approximately €760 – €1,270+) before any piece-rate bonuses.
Detailed Benefits: More Than Just a Paycheck
The value of these roles extends beyond the hourly wage. Reputable agencies and farms provide a full support package:
- Visa Sponsorship & Legal Work Permit: Your employer handles the Type S Seasonal Work Permit application, which is your legal authorization to work and reside in Poland for up to 9 months in a calendar year.
- On-Site Accommodation: Most employers provide shared housing (often dormitory-style) near the farms, typically for a modest deduction (around PLN 200-400/month) from your salary. This is a major cost and logistical benefit.
- Cultural & Geographic Access: You’ll be based in rural regions like Kujawy, Lubusz, or Greater Poland, offering an authentic experience far from tourist hubs. Weekends allow for travel to cities like Wrocław, Poznań, or Gdańsk.
Who is eligible? The 2026 Requirements
While no formal education is needed, successful applicants must demonstrate specific, verifiable traits:
1. Legal & Logistical Readiness
- A valid passport with at least 12 months remaining.
- Clean police record (a certificate is often required for the visa).
- Medical fitness for demanding physical labor (a basic health certificate may be needed).
2. Essential Personal Attributes
- Physical Resilience: Capable of 8-10 hours daily of bending, lifting, and walking in various weather.
- Team Reliability: Harvesting is a synchronized team effort. Punctuality and a cooperative attitude are non-negotiable.
- Adaptability: Prepared for basic living conditions, shared spaces, and a rural setting.
3. Basic Communication
While fluent Polish isn’t required, knowing basic phrases (dzień dobry – good day, dziękuję – thank you) and having A1-level English for understanding safety and task instructions is critical.
A Day in the Life: Core Duties & Responsibilities
Your role is focused and physical. Key tasks include:
- Selective Harvesting: Identifying and picking ripe tomatoes by hand without damaging plants.
- Sorting & Grading: Sorting produce by size, color, and quality directly in the field or packing house.
- Packing & Loading: Carefully packing tomatoes into crates or onto conveyors for transport.
- Tool & Area Maintenance: Basic care of harvesting tools and keeping the work area clean.
The Step-by-Step Application & Visa Process
Follow this clear pathway to secure your position legally and efficiently.
Step 1: Find a Legitimate Sponsor
- Use Official Channels: Apply through registered Polish seasonal work agencies (e.g., Work Service, Personnel Service) or directly on farms known for international hiring. Avoid unverified social media offers.
- Required Documents: Prepare a simple CV highlighting any physical work, a copy of your passport, and a short motivation letter.
Step 2: Secure the Contract & Work Permit
- Receive and sign a formal employment contract specifying wages, hours, accommodation, and contract duration.
- Your employer applies for your Type S Seasonal Work Permit with the Polish Voivodeship Office. This can take 2-5 weeks.
Step 3: Apply for Your National Visa (D-Type)
With the work permit, apply for a National (D-type) Visa at your nearest Polish consulate. Required documents include:
- Visa application form
- Valid passport
- Work permit approval
- Employment contract
- Health insurance proof (often arranged by employer)
- Accommodation confirmation
- Visa fee receipt
Processing takes 10-15 business days. Once issued, you can enter Poland and begin work.
Important Considerations & Challenges
Be fully prepared for the reality of the role:
- Physical Demand: The work is strenuous. Back, knee, and hand fatigue are common.
- Weather Dependency: Work happens rain or shine, and cold, rainy days are challenging.
- Seasonal Limitations: The Type S permit is strictly temporary. Transitioning to long-term residency requires a different job and visa path.
Conclusion:
Tomato-picking jobs in Poland with visa sponsorship offer seasonal work with competitive pay, accommodation, and hands-on agricultural experience. These roles require no formal education and provide opportunities to develop skills, work in teams, and experience Polish culture. Ideal for those seeking short-term employment, cultural exchange, and a pathway into the European job market.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I get a job offer in Poland?
Both Polish employers and entities providing job placement services in Poland publish job offers in the press, online, or in their registered offices, as well as via other forms of communication, such as social media. Most daily newspapers, both nationwide and local, contain special columns with job advertisements.
Can unskilled people work in Poland?
Finding an unskilled job in Poland is easier than you might think. The demand for workers in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, construction, and hospitality is high. Here are some steps to get you started: Online job portals: Websites like Pracuj.pl, Indeed, and LinkedIn list numerous job opportunities.
Is finding a job easy in Poland?
Securing a job in Poland without speaking Polish can be fairly easy unless you aspire to work in a customer-facing role. There are various large organizations, including international corporations, that are looking for candidates to fill English-speaking roles.
