Are you looking for a legal way to work in Europe while gaining valuable experience in one of the world’s leading food-producing nations? Spain is currently facing a massive labor shortage in its rural heartlands. To combat this, the Spanish government has expanded the GECCO Program, offering thousands of Spain Agriculture & Seasonal Farm Jobs With Visa sponsorship to international workers for the 2025 season.
From the world-famous strawberry picking jobs in Huelva to the high-tech greenhouses of Almería, Spain isn’t just a holiday destination, it’s a land of opportunity for those ready to work hard. This guide covers the 2025 visa requirements, the “Circular Migration” model, and how you can secure your place in the harvest.
Why Spain is Hiring Now: The 2025 Agriculture Boom
Spain is the “Orchard of Europe,” but with an aging local population, farmers are increasingly reliant on the Spain Seasonal Worker Visa (known locally as the Autorización de Trabajo de Temporada).
In 2025, the Ministry of Migration has streamlined the GECCO Program Spain, allowing for “Circular Migration.”2 This means if you complete your season and return home on time, you are prioritized for a 4-year multi-annual authorization, letting you return to work 9 months every year without re-applying for a full visa.3
Key Locations & Peak Seasons
| Region | Main Crop | Peak Season |
| Huelva | Strawberries & Blueberries | February to June |
| Almería | Tomatoes & Peppers (Greenhouse) | September to May |
| Valencia | Oranges & Lemons (Citrus) | October to April |
| Jaén / Córdoba | Olive Harvest | November to January |
| Lleida / Rioja | Grapes & Stone Fruit | August to October |
High-Demand Roles and 2025 Salary Guide
Recently, the Spanish government raised the minimum wage (SMI) to 2025, some 1,184 per month (14 payments annually). A certain labor agreement known as the Convenio Colectivo del Campo also protects all agricultural workers. This legal system exists to ensure that the farm workers are paid well and their employer treats them well.
2025 Monthly Wage Estimates (Gross)
- Salary monthly: about 1184 (14 payments) or 1,381 (12 payments).
- Daily Rates of Seasonal Workers: At least: €56.08/day (less than 120 days contracts).
- Overtime: When you work overtime (more hours than your usual shift), then you get a different rate which is usually higher than your usual hourly wage. The amount is determined by local rules or agreements within that particular region.
Common Vacancies
Vegetable Packer: Working in “Alhóndigas” (logistics centers) to sort and package produce for export.
Fruit Picker Jobs Spain: Manual harvesting of delicate berries and citrus.
Greenhouse Worker Almería: Maintaining “Intensive Agriculture” environments.
Tractor Driver Agriculture Spain: Requires a valid license and experience with farm machinery.
The Visa Process: How to Apply for Sponsorship
Unlike standard work visas, the Visa Sponsorship Spain Agriculture 2025 is employer-driven. You cannot usually apply for the visa until a Spanish employer initiates the process.
Step-by-Step Application
- Job Offer & Contract: The employer applies for a work permit at the Provincial Aliens Affairs Office.
- Labor Market Test: The employer must prove no EU citizen is available for the role (though this is often waived for “Shortage Occupations” in farming).
- Consular Visa Application: Once the permit is approved in Spain, you apply at the Spanish Embassy in your home country.
- TIE as a Seasonal Worker: Once in Spain, you need to register in the Social security and apply to your Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) within 30 days.
- Important: Non-EU citizens from countries with bilateral agreements (like Morocco, Senegal, Colombia, and Honduras) have the highest success rates via the GECCO Program.
Skills & Professional Requirements
To be a successful candidate for Farm Hand Vacancies in Europe, you should meet these criteria:
Accommodation: The rules of 2025 recommend that employers provide seasonal workers with decent and dignified accommodation.
Physical Fitness: Ability to labor in a hot climate and engage in manual labor of 6-8 hours every day.
Devotion to Return: You will have to sign a report in which you assure to go back to home country once the 9 months contract is over.
Basic Spanish: Basic, not invariably, but knowledge of Español básico in agriculture can be used in safety and coordination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does the employer pay for my travel?
A: Yes under the GECCO program, the employer is generally responsible for organizing and paying for your travel to Spain.
Q: Can I stay in Spain after the harvest ends?
A: No. Seasonal visas require you to return home. However, completing a successful season makes it much easier to get a 4 year multi entry permit later.
Q: What is the NIE Application?
A: The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is your tax ID number. It is usually assigned automatically during your visa processing.
Your Next Steps
- Check Bilateral Agreements: See if your home country participates in the Spanish GECCO program.
- Monitor Official Portals: Check the SEPE (Spanish Public Employment Service) or authorized recruitment agencies like Aurawoo or Yseasonal.
- Prepare Documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 12 months and your criminal record check is ready for translation.