Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to work abroad in 2025? Fruit picking jobs in the Netherlands offer foreign workers a chance to earn competitive wages, experience Dutch culture, and gain valuable work experience. With visa sponsorship available, this opportunity is accessible for international job seekers looking for seasonal or temporary employment. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about fruit picking jobs in the Netherlands, from job requirements to wages, accommodation, and tips for success.
Why Choose Fruit Picking Jobs in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is one of Europe’s top agricultural hubs, known for its high-quality fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Fruit picking jobs here are ideal for foreign workers for several reasons:
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Competitive Pay: You can earn between €9 and €12 per hour depending on experience, work hours, and the type of fruit being picked.
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Visa Sponsorship: Many farms and agencies provide visa sponsorship, making it easier for non-EU workers to legally work in the Netherlands.
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Flexible Work: Seasonal fruit picking jobs offer flexible working hours, perfect for students, travelers, or temporary workers.
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Cultural Experience: Working in the Netherlands gives you a chance to experience Dutch culture, language, and lifestyle firsthand.
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Career Opportunities: Seasonal work can open doors to other agricultural or logistics opportunities in Europe.
Types of Fruit Picking Jobs
Fruit picking jobs vary depending on the season and type of crop. Common types of fruits you might be picking include:
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Apples – Usually harvested in late summer and autumn.
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Strawberries – Spring and early summer harvesting.
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Cherries – Summer season work.
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Blueberries and Raspberries – Summer to early autumn.
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Pears and Plums – Late summer and early autumn.
Jobs can be physically demanding, but they are rewarding for those willing to work hard. Many farms also offer additional tasks like packing, sorting, and quality checking fruit for sale.
Requirements for Fruit Picking Jobs
To work in the Netherlands as a fruit picker, foreign workers typically need to meet the following requirements:
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Age Requirement: Most farms hire workers aged 18 and above.
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Basic Physical Fitness: Fruit picking involves long hours standing, bending, and lifting. Being physically fit is essential.
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Work Permit or Visa: Non-EU workers need a visa to legally work. Many farms offer visa sponsorship.
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Language Skills: Basic English is often sufficient, although some farms may appreciate knowledge of Dutch or German.
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Availability: Seasonal jobs require a commitment of several weeks to a few months, depending on crop season.
How to Apply for Fruit Picking Jobs in Netherlands
Finding fruit picking jobs in the Netherlands is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
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Search Online Job Portals: Websites like Indeed Netherlands, Workaway, or specialized agricultural job boards list seasonal picking jobs.
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Contact Agencies: Several agencies specialize in recruiting foreign workers for farms and offer visa sponsorship.
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Prepare Your Documents: Keep your passport, visa documents, and any previous work references ready.
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Interview or Screening: Some farms may conduct a basic interview to assess your suitability.
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Sign Contract: Once selected, you’ll receive a contract outlining wages, working hours, and accommodation.
Visa Sponsorship for Non-EU Workers
One of the biggest advantages of working in the Netherlands is the availability of visa sponsorship for non-EU workers. This makes it possible to legally work on farms even if you are not an EU citizen.
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Types of Visa: Most seasonal workers use the Dutch seasonal work permit, which allows employment for up to six months.
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Sponsorship Process: Farms or recruitment agencies help with visa applications, documentation, and sometimes even flights.
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Legal Rights: Visa-sponsored workers enjoy the same labor rights as Dutch employees, including minimum wage and safe working conditions.
Wages and Payment
Fruit picking jobs in the Netherlands are known for fair compensation, with workers earning €9–€12 per hour.
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Pay Frequency: Most farms pay weekly or monthly.
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Overtime: Some farms offer extra pay for overtime or peak season work.
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Bonuses: High-quality picking or exceeding quotas may lead to additional bonuses.
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Minimum Wage: Dutch labor law ensures all workers, including temporary foreign workers, receive at least the minimum wage.
Accommodation and Living Conditions
Many farms provide accommodation for foreign workers, which is an added convenience for seasonal employees.
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On-Farm Housing: Dormitory-style housing or small apartments near the fields.
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Rental Cost: Often included in your salary, though some farms may deduct a small fee.
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Facilities: Basic amenities include beds, kitchen, laundry, and sometimes internet access.
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Local Living: Living on or near farms allows for easy commuting to work and immersion in Dutch rural life.
Fruit Picking Jobs Salary Table in Netherlands 2025
| Type of Fruit | Hourly Wage (€) | Weekly Hours | Estimated Weekly Earnings (€) | Peak Season Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strawberries | 9–10 | 35–40 | 315–400 | Yes |
| Apples | 10–11 | 35–40 | 350–440 | Yes |
| Cherries | 10–12 | 35–40 | 350–480 | Yes |
| Blueberries | 9–11 | 35–40 | 315–440 | Yes |
| Pears & Plums | 9–12 | 35–40 | 315–480 | Yes |
Notes:
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Wages depend on experience, speed, and farm.
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Peak season bonuses are offered for high-quality picking and exceeding quotas.
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Working hours may vary; some farms offer overtime pay.
Tips for Success
Working in fruit picking can be demanding, so it’s important to be prepared. Here are some tips:
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Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes.
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Stay Hydrated: Long hours under the sun require regular water breaks.
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Follow Instructions: Farms have strict quality standards; picking and handling fruits properly is essential.
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Work Efficiently: Speed and accuracy are both valued.
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Be Friendly and Respectful: Positive relationships with supervisors and co-workers can improve your experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
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Earn competitive wages (€9–€12/hour)
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Visa sponsorship for non-EU workers
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Flexible seasonal work
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Cultural and language experience
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Potential for long-term opportunities
Cons:
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Physically demanding work
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Long working hours during peak season
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Seasonal nature (work may not be year-round)
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Accommodation may be basic
Why the Netherlands is a Great Destination
The Netherlands offers more than just work opportunities. Living here as a seasonal worker provides exposure to:
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Dutch Culture: Experience local traditions, festivals, and cuisine.
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Safe Environment: The Netherlands is considered one of the safest countries in Europe.
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Transportation: Efficient public transport for exploring nearby cities and towns.
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Networking: Meet people from all over the world and make valuable connections.
Conclusion
Fruit picking jobs in the Netherlands in 2025 are an excellent opportunity for foreign workers seeking seasonal employment. With competitive wages of €9–€12 per hour, visa sponsorship for non-EU workers, and a chance to experience Dutch culture, these jobs are perfect for students, travelers, or anyone looking for temporary work abroad.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, preparing the necessary documents, and approaching the work with a positive attitude, you can secure a rewarding fruit picking job and enjoy a memorable experience in the Netherlands.