Shortage Jobs

seasonal work visas in europe
May 23, 2023Austria Finland General Germany Ireland Italy Portugal Spain

11 countries offering Seasonal Work visas in Europe

Greetings, adventurous job seekers! Are you ready to pack your bags, broaden your horizons, and explore the amazing opportunities that Europe has to offer? Then look no further because seasonal work visas in Europe might just be the ticket you need. With these special visas, you can experience different cultures, meet new people, and earn some money while you’re at it. Sounds like a win-win situation, doesn’t it?

Now, you might be wondering, “Why are seasonal work visas such a big deal?” Well, my friend, these visas are important for both workers and employers. For workers like you, they offer a chance to gain valuable international work experience and make your resume shine. For employers, they provide access to a diverse and talented workforce, which can be especially helpful during peak seasons when extra hands are needed.

But wait, there’s more! Seasonal work opportunities in Europe come with a whole bunch of benefits. First of all, you’ll get to travel and explore new countries (talk about an Instagram-worthy adventure!). Secondly, you’ll have the chance to learn new skills and languages, which can be super useful in your future career. Last but not least, you’ll make friends from all around the world and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, are you ready to embark on this exciting journey? Let’s dive into the world of seasonal work visas in Europe!

Popular European countries offering seasonal work visas

Spain

¡Hola, amigos! Ready to soak up some sun and work in beautiful Spain? Here’s what you need to know about the requirements and application process for seasonal employment in this fantastic country.

To work as a seasonal employee in Spain, you’ll need an Employee visa. This visa covers not only seasonal work but also highly skilled workers. The process involves a couple of important steps:

First, your employer must obtain a work and residence permit from official departments of labor or the  Provincial Aliens Affairs Office. Once the work permit is authorized, the residence permit can be issued by the responsible authorities. So, it’s crucial to find a job before you head to Spain!

Next, you’ll need to get a work and residence visa from the Spanish embassy in your country, which is granted after obtaining the work permit. This visa allows you to enter Spain for work purposes. Keep in mind that permits have a validity duration of nine months and usually last as long as the work contract is valid. However, seasonal workers can have their permit extended, as long as it remains within a nine-month period.

So, brush up on your Spanish, practice your flamenco moves, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure as a seasonal worker in Spain!

France

Bonjour, mes amis! Dreaming of working in the land of baguettes, berets, and the Eiffel Tower? Then it’s time to explore the requirements and application process for seasonal employment in France.

To work as a seasonal employee in France, you’ll need a work permit. If your work permit is issued for fewer than three months, you should obtain a short-stay visa. However, if the work permit is valid for more than three months, you’ll need to get a long-stay visa at the French Embassy or Consulate in your country of origin.

Once you’ve been granted a visa based on your work permit’s validity, you’ll have to apply for a temporary residence permit at the préfecture of your place of residence to make your stay in France legal. This costs 19 EUR. Voilà, you’re ready to enjoy the French way of life!

Now, it’s important to remember that finding a job in France should be your first step before applying for a visa and work permit. So, polish up your French skills, indulge in some French cinema, and start searching for that perfect seasonal job in France. Bonne chance!

Germany

Guten Tag, meine Freunde! Are you excited about the prospect of working in the land of Oktoberfest, fairytale castles, and delicious bratwurst? Let’s dive into the requirements and application process for seasonal employment in Germany.

To work as a seasonal employee in Germany, you’ll need to obtain a work permit as well as a residence permit. This will allow you to work in the country and legalize your stay during a certain period of time. 

Germany has special requirements for seasonal work for third-country residents which are: You must work up to 90 days out of 180 days in total and You regularly work at least 30 hours a week.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

  1. Find a seasonal job in Germany before applying for a visa and work permit. This is crucial because your employer will play a significant role in the application process.

  2. Once you’ve secured a job, your employer will need to obtain a work permit on your behalf from the German authorities.

  3. After your work permit has been authorized, you can apply for a residence permit at the German consulate or embassy in your home country.

  4. Once you’ve received your residence permit, pack your bags and get ready to start your exciting seasonal work adventure in Germany!

Remember, it’s essential to brush up on your German language skills and immerse yourself in German culture before embarking on this journey. Viel Erfolg (good luck) and enjoy your time working in Germany!

Italy

Ciao, amici! Ready to work in the land of pizza, pasta, and picturesque landscapes? Let’s explore the requirements and application process for seasonal employment in Italy.

To become a seasonal worker in Italy, your employer must apply for authorization to work on your behalf. Once granted, you’ll be issued a visa valid for up to six months. During this period, the authorization to work is released, which is necessary for obtaining the entry visa.

In addition to the visa, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit within eight days of arriving in Italy. Residence permits can be valid for up to nine months, depending on the work authorization’s duration. You must also sign a contract of residence.

So, dust off your Italian phrasebook, indulge in some Italian movies, and start searching for that dream seasonal job in Italy. Buona fortuna!

Portugal

Olá, amigos! Eager to work in the land of beautiful beaches, delicious pasteis de nata, and enchanting Fado music? Let’s discover the requirements and application process for seasonal employment in Portugal.

Seasonal workers in Portugal are required to secure a work contract in the country before arriving. In addition to this, you’ll need to obtain either a short-stay visa or, more often, a temporary stay visa, which is valid for up to nine months in a 12-month period and shouldn’t be extended.

To sum up, find a seasonal job in Portugal, apply for the appropriate visa based on your work contract, and then you’ll be ready to experience the vibrant Portuguese culture. Boa sorte!

Luxembourg

Moien, Frënn! Intrigued by the idea of working in the heart of Europe, in one of the smallest yet wealthiest countries? Let’s check out the requirements and application process for seasonal employment in Luxembourg.

Although Luxembourg may not be a popular destination for seasonal workers due to its limited tourism-oriented job market, it’s still possible to find seasonal work opportunities. To work as a seasonal employee in Luxembourg, you’ll need to:

  1. Find a seasonal job in Luxembourg before applying for the visa and work permit, as your employer will play a crucial role in the process.

  2. Once you have secured a job, your employer will need to apply for temporary authorisation on your behalf at the Immigration Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs; or a Luxembourg diplomatic or consular representation.

  3. After your permit has been authorized, you can apply for a residence permit at the Luxembourg consulate or embassy in your home country.

  4.  Within three days of your arrival in Luxembourg, you must submit a declaration of arrival to the administration of the commune where you intend to establish residency.

  5. The seasonal foreign worker must submit an application for a residence permit for foreign nationals to the Immigration Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs within three months of their arrival in Luxembourg. It costs 80 EUR.

  6. With your residence permit in hand, you’ll be all set to embark on your seasonal work adventure in Luxembourg.

Belgium

Hallo, vrienden! Interested in working in the land of waffles, chocolate, and medieval towns? Let’s delve into the requirements and application process for seasonal employment in Belgium.

While Belgium’s tourism industry may not be as developed as in other European countries, seasonal work opportunities still exist in Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels Capital Region and the German-speaking Community. To work as a seasonal employee in Belgium, follow these steps:

  1. Secure a seasonal job in Belgium before applying for the visa and work permit, as your employer will be instrumental in the process and needs to submit a number of documents, including proof of payment of the administrative fee.

  2. Your employer submits a single permit application for residence and work to the department of economic migration in their region.

  3. The regional authority and federal Immigration Office assess your application within 60-90 days.

  4. If approved, you receive an annex 46 or 47 decision from the Immigration Office.

  5. Apply for a visa D at the Belgian diplomatic or consular post in your place of residence with your annex 46 or 47 and international passport.

  6. Once in Belgium, register at the municipality of your place of residence within 8 working days.

  7. After a positive residence check, the municipality issues a single permit for a limited period of time (A-card).

Brush up on your language skills, whether it’s French, Dutch, or German, as Belgium is a multilingual country. Dive into Belgian culture, perhaps by trying some famous Belgian dishes or learning about its history, to fully embrace your upcoming seasonal work adventure. Veel succes!

United Kingdom

Hello, mates! Looking for a seasonal work opportunity in the land of Shakespeare, fish and chips, and the iconic red telephone booth? Let’s explore the requirements and application process for seasonal employment in the United Kingdom.

To work as a seasonal employee in the UK, you will need to apply for a Seasonal Worker visa. The UK offers this visa for horticulture work (up to 6 months) and poultry work (from 2 October to 31 December). The application process includes:

  • Securing a sponsor for your seasonal job.
  • Meeting the eligibility requirements, including having a certificate of sponsorship reference number and proving you have at least £1,270 in your bank account to support yourself in the UK.
  • Applying for the visa up to 3 months before your intended start date in the UK.

The application fee for the Seasonal Worker visa is £259. Once your application is submitted and your identity and documents have been verified, you will generally receive a decision on your visa within 3 weeks.

Ireland

Dia dhuit, friends! Ready to work in the land of leprechauns, lush green landscapes, and the world-famous Guinness beer? Let’s take a look at the requirements and application process for seasonal employment in Ireland.

While Ireland may not have a specific seasonal work visa, seasonal work opportunities still exist. To work as a seasonal employee in Ireland, you’ll need to:

  • Find a seasonal job in Ireland before applying for the visa and work permit, as your employer will play a crucial role in the process.
  • Once you have secured a job, your employer will need to apply for a work permit on your behalf.
  • After your work permit has been authorized, you can apply for a visa at the Irish consulate or embassy in your home country.

With your visa and work permit in hand, you’ll be all set to embark on your seasonal work adventure in Ireland. Sláinte!

Austria

Servus, Freunde! Dreaming of working in the picturesque landscapes of Austria, home to Mozart, the Vienna waltz, and delicious Sachertorte? Let’s discover the requirements and application process for seasonal employment in Austria.

Seasonal work opportunities in Austria can be found primarily in the tourism and agriculture sectors. To work as a seasonal employee in Austria, you’ll need to:

  • Find a seasonal job in Austria before applying for the visa and work permit, as your employer will play a crucial role in the process.
  • Once you have secured a job, your employer will need to apply for a work permit on your behalf at the competent authority of the Austrian Public Employment Service (Arbeitsmarktservice – AMS).
  • After your work permit has been authorized, you can apply for a visa at the Austrian consulate or embassy in your home country. The visa costs €60 for Category C and €100 for Category D.

With your visa and work permit in hand, you’ll be all set to embark on your seasonal work adventure in Austria. Prost!

Finland

Hei, ystävät! Interested in working in the land of a thousand lakes, Northern Lights, and the home of Santa Claus? Let’s dive into the requirements and application process for seasonal employment in Finland.

Seasonal work opportunities in Finland can be found in sectors such as agriculture, forestry, and tourism. To work as a seasonal employee in Finland, follow these steps:

  • Secure a seasonal job in Finland before applying for the visa and work permit, as your employer will be instrumental in the process.
  • Determine the duration of your seasonal work in Finland (less than 3 months, or 3 to 9 months) and your country’s visa requirements for Finland.
  • If working less than 3 months and you require a visa, submit a seasonal work visa application to the Finnish diplomatic mission or consulate in your country.
  • If working less than 3 months and you don’t require a visa, submit a request for a seasonal work certificate to the Finnish Immigration Service. Pay the processing fee of EUR 100.
  • If working 3 to 9 months, submit a seasonal work permit application through the e-service Enter Finland or as a paper application at the Finnish diplomatic mission or consulate in your country.
  • Visit the Finnish diplomatic mission or consulate to prove your identity and provide your fingerprints.
  • Pay the processing fee for your residence permit application: EUR 350 (online) or EUR 550 (paper) for 3-6 months, and EUR 400 (online) or EUR 600 (paper) for 6-9 months. Note that for 6-9 months, a partial decision may be required from the Employment and Economic Development Office (TE Office).

your visa and work permit in hand, pack your warmest clothes and prepare for your exciting seasonal work experience in Finland. Kippis!

Common Sectors for Seasonal Work Visas in Europe

Tourism and Hospitality Ahoy, travelers! The tourism and hospitality industry is a hotbed of seasonal work opportunities. From hotels, resorts, and restaurants to travel agencies and tour guides, there are plenty of chances to explore and work in this exciting sector.

Agriculture and Farming Yee-haw! Roll up your sleeves and get ready to dig into the agriculture and farming sector. This field offers seasonal work such as fruit picking, vegetable harvesting, and vineyard work. It’s an excellent opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors while earning some money.

Retail and Sales Attention, shoppers! The retail and sales sector is always on the lookout for seasonal workers, especially during holidays and peak shopping seasons. Join the team at a store, mall, or market and help customers find their perfect purchases.

Events and Festivals Ladies and gentlemen, step right up! The events and festivals sector offers plenty of seasonal work opportunities, from music festivals and cultural events to sporting competitions and trade shows. Get ready to play a part in creating unforgettable experiences for attendees.

Language Teaching Hola, bonjour, hallo! If you’re fluent in English or another language, the language teaching sector offers seasonal work opportunities. Teach at language schools, summer camps, or private tutoring sessions and share your linguistic skills with eager students.

Entertainment Industry Lights, camera, action! The entertainment industry is yet another avenue for seasonal work opportunities. From amusement parks and cruise ships to theaters and movie productions, there’s always a demand for talented individuals to join the show.

How to Become a Seasonal Worker in the EU

Finding Seasonal Work

  1. Research job boards and websites specializing in seasonal work opportunities.
  2. Network with people in your desired industry.
  3. Reach out to potential employers directly.

Required Documentation for Application

  1. A valid passport or ID card.
  2. A job offer from an employer in the EU country where you wish to work.
  3. Proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay.
  4. Health insurance coverage.

General Application Process

  1. Secure a seasonal job offer in your chosen EU country.
  2. Apply for a work permit or visa, if required, with the help of your employer.
  3. Gather all required documents and submit your application at the appropriate consulate or embassy in your home country.
  4. Wait for the approval of your work permit or visa before traveling to your destination country.

With these steps in mind, you’re well on your way to a successful seasonal work experience in the European Union. Good luck and happy travels!

Tips for getting Seasonal Work visas in Europe

Research Job Boards and Websites

  1. Explore online job boards and websites that specialize in seasonal work opportunities.
  2. Look for country-specific job sites to find work in your desired destination.

Attend Job Fairs and Networking Events

  1. Seek out job fairs, expos, and networking events in your desired industry.
  2. Connect with potential employers and make a lasting impression.

Utilize Social Media and Personal Connections

  1. Update your social media profiles to showcase your skills and experience.
  2. Reach out to friends, family, and acquaintances who might have connections in your desired field or location.

Prepare Your CV and Job Application Materials in Advance

  1. Tailor your CV to highlight your relevant skills and experiences for the seasonal work you’re seeking.
  2. Draft a compelling cover letter that showcases your motivation and enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Legal Considerations and Worker Rights

Employment Contracts

  1. Ensure you receive a written employment contract outlining the terms and conditions of your seasonal work.
  2. Understand the details of your contract, including your job role, salary, and duration of employment.

Working Hours and Conditions

  1. Familiarize yourself with local labor laws regarding working hours, breaks, and overtime pay.
  2. Make sure your employer complies with these regulations to protect your rights as a worker.

Health Insurance and Social Security

  1. Confirm whether your employer provides health insurance coverage or if you need to obtain your own.
  2. Understand your rights and obligations regarding social security and pension contributions in your destination country.

Taxes and Other Deductions

  1. Learn about the local tax system and your responsibilities as a seasonal worker.
  2. Keep track of any deductions made from your salary, such as taxes and social security contributions.

In this guide, we’ve explored seasonal employment opportunities available across Europe, along with the requirements and application processes for each country. We’ve also covered common sectors for seasonal work, tips for finding employment, and legal considerations to keep in mind.  Seasonal work visas in Europe offer an incredible opportunity to experience a new culture, build your skillset, and make lasting connections. With the right preparation and determination, you can embark on a fulfilling and memorable work adventure. So, pack your bags, polish your CV, and get ready to dive into the vibrant world of seasonal work in Europe. Bon voyage!

Comments

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.