Switzerland, with its stunning landscapes and thriving agricultural sector, offers unique opportunities for seasonal workers. Berries picking jobs in Switzerland with visa sponsorship are especially popular among international applicants looking for short-term work in a beautiful environment while earning competitive wages. This guide covers job details, visa requirements, top employers, and tips to secure a position.
Why Switzerland Is Ideal for Seasonal Berry Picking Jobs
Switzerland is known for its high-quality agriculture, including strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Seasonal berry picking jobs attract international workers due to:
- Attractive Wages: Seasonal workers can earn competitive hourly pay, often higher than in many other European countries.
- Visa Sponsorship Opportunities: Employers often provide work permits for international candidates.
- Work Experience Abroad: Gain practical agricultural experience in a structured and well-regulated environment.
- Beautiful Work Environment: Swiss farms are located in scenic regions, offering a unique cultural experience.
Types of Berries Picking Jobs in Switzerland
Berries picking jobs in Switzerland are usually seasonal and involve:
- Field Harvesting: Picking berries by hand and ensuring quality standards.
- Sorting and Packing: Sorting fruits by size and ripeness, and packing them for distribution.
- Farm Maintenance: Assisting with general farm activities, irrigation, and maintaining cleanliness.
- Team Coordination: Working efficiently with other seasonal workers to meet harvesting targets.
Most positions are temporary, ranging from 1–3 months, typically during the berry harvesting season from June to September.
Visa Sponsorship for Berry Picking Jobs
International applicants typically require a work visa to pick berries in Switzerland. Employers can sponsor visas through:
1. Seasonal Work Visa (Short-Term)
- Allows international workers to be employed in agriculture for up to 3 months.
- Employers provide necessary sponsorship and documentation for the visa application.
2. Long-Term Seasonal Employment
- For candidates willing to work for a longer season, some farms offer multi-month sponsorship.
- Requires proof of employment and compliance with Swiss labor regulations.
Tip: Having previous experience in farm work or agriculture can improve your chances of obtaining visa sponsorship.
Top Employers Hiring Berry Pickers in Switzerland
Several farms and agricultural companies in Switzerland actively recruit international seasonal workers:
- Fruit Farms in Valais and Vaud – Known for strawberries and blueberries.
- Organic Farms in Zurich and Geneva Regions – Focus on sustainable berry production.
- Agricultural Cooperatives – Hire seasonal staff for both picking and processing berries.
Many of these employers also provide accommodation, meals, and local transportation to make seasonal work more accessible for international staff.
How to Find Berries Picking Jobs in Switzerland With Visa Sponsorship
1. Job Portals
Search on Indeed Switzerland, Jobs.ch, and Workaway with keywords like “berry picking jobs Switzerland” or “seasonal farm jobs with visa.”
2. Company Career Pages
Check the websites of farms and agricultural cooperatives directly for seasonal employment postings.
3. Recruitment Agencies
Agencies specializing in seasonal or agricultural work can help international workers secure visa-sponsored positions.
4. Networking
Join agricultural forums, Swiss farm groups on social media, or international work exchange programs to find opportunities.
Tips to Secure a Berries Picking Job
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Mention previous farm work, berry picking, or manual labor skills.
- Show Visa Readiness: Indicate willingness to work under visa sponsorship and move to Switzerland.
- Prepare Physically: Berry picking requires stamina and endurance.
- Be Flexible: Seasonal work may require early mornings and working in different weather conditions.
Salary Expectations
Berries picking jobs in Switzerland pay well compared to other European countries:
- Average Hourly Wage: CHF 20 – CHF 25 per hour
- Accommodation and Meals: Many employers provide free housing and meals.
- Seasonal Bonuses: Some farms offer extra incentives for exceeding harvesting targets.
Conclusion
Switzerland provides excellent opportunities for international applicants seeking berries picking jobs with visa sponsorship. Seasonal work not only offers competitive wages but also the chance to experience Swiss culture, work in scenic environments, and gain agricultural experience. By targeting reputable farms, leveraging recruitment agencies, and demonstrating your readiness for seasonal work, you can successfully secure a berries picking job in Switzerland.
