Fruit Picking and Packaging Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship – Apply Now
Are you looking for a simple yet rewarding way to work and live in Canada? Fruit picking and packaging jobs might be just what you’re looking for, especially if you’re hoping to gain international work experience with visa sponsorship.
Every year, Canada hires thousands of foreign workers to help harvest and package fruits across its farms and orchards. These jobs are a vital part of the country’s agriculture industry and provide seasonal employment opportunities for people from all over the world.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explain what fruit picking and packaging jobs involve, how to find them, what visa options are available, and how to prepare for your journey to Canada. Whether you’re seeking temporary work or looking to build a future in Canada, this guide will help you get started.
What Are Fruit Picking and Packaging Jobs in Canada?
Fruit picking and packaging jobs are typically seasonal roles offered by farms during the harvest months. They involve working outdoors and in packing facilities to help get fresh produce ready for market.
These jobs are especially popular among young travelers, temporary workers, and foreign nationals who are eligible for sponsored work permits. Let’s take a closer look at what these roles actually involve:
Job Responsibilities
Before applying, it’s good to understand the type of work you’ll be doing:
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Fruit Picking: This involves harvesting fruits like apples, cherries, strawberries, and grapes. You’ll need to carefully select ripe fruits and pick them without damaging the tree or plant. It requires attention to detail and stamina.
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Packaging: After fruits are picked, they must be sorted, cleaned, packed, and labeled. Packaging workers ensure the fruits are of good quality and ready to be sent to stores or markets.
Working Conditions
Most of these jobs require physical labor and involve working outdoors, sometimes in varying weather. Here’s what you can expect:
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Seasonal Nature: These jobs are usually available from spring through fall, depending on the fruit and the region. For example, apple harvesting might start in August and go until October.
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Physically Demanding: You’ll spend long hours standing, walking, bending, and lifting. It’s not easy work, but it can be very rewarding for those who are active and enjoy the outdoors.
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Pay Structure: Wages can vary by province and employer. Some farms pay by the hour (often close to the minimum wage), while others pay based on how much fruit you pick (piece rate). On average, workers can earn $13 to $20 CAD per hour, or more with experience.
How to Find Fruit Picking and Packaging Jobs in Canada
Finding a fruit picking or packaging job in Canada is easier than you might think, especially during harvest season. There are a few reliable methods to search for opportunities, both online and offline.
1 Online Job Boards
One of the fastest ways to look for jobs is by using Canadian job search websites. Here, you can search by keywords like “fruit picker,” “farm worker,” or “agriculture jobs.”
Some popular platforms include:
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Indeed Canada
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Job Bank (Canada’s government job site)
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Glassdoor
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Workopolis
When searching, try adding “visa sponsorship” to your keywords to find jobs that support international applicants.
2 Farm Websites and Social Media
Many small and large farms advertise their job openings directly on their own websites or Facebook pages. If you’re interested in a specific region (like British Columbia or Ontario), you can search for local farms and reach out to them directly.
This method shows initiative and increases your chance of getting noticed.
3 Recruitment Agencies
There are staffing agencies in Canada that specialize in seasonal agricultural work. Some of these agencies also help with the visa sponsorship process, including applying for a work permit or arranging travel.
Look for licensed recruiters or immigration consultants to ensure you’re dealing with a trusted source.
Visa Sponsorship requirements for Fruit Picking Jobs in Canada
To work legally in Canada as a fruit picker or packer, you’ll need a valid work permit or visa. The good news is that there are several visa programs specifically designed for seasonal or temporary agricultural workers.
Let’s break them down in simple terms:
International Experience Canada (IEC) – Working Holiday Visa
This program is perfect for young people from participating countries (like Australia, Ireland, the UK, Japan, and more). If eligible, you can live and work in Canada for up to 12 to 24 months, depending on your country.
Many fruit picking jobs fall under this category, especially during summer and fall. You don’t need a job offer before applying, but having one can help your application.
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
If a Canadian employer wants to hire you and no Canadians are available for the job, they can apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Once the LMIA is approved, you can apply for a work permit under the TFWP.
This is a common path for international workers applying directly through farms or recruitment agencies.
Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP)
This program is designed for agricultural workers from specific countries, including:
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Mexico
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Jamaica
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Trinidad and Tobago
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Several Caribbean nations
If you’re from an eligible country, SAWP allows you to work in Canada for up to 8 months per year. Employers will typically arrange accommodation and transportation.
Visa Application for Fruit Picking Jobs in Canada
Now that you know the visa options, here’s what the application process looks like:
1 Check Eligibility
Start by checking which visa program fits your situation. Requirements vary by country, age, and work experience.
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For the IEC Working Holiday Visa, check if your country is part of the agreement with Canada.
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For SAWP or TFWP, ensure you meet health and character requirements and are physically fit for labor work.
2: Secure a Job Offer
Most visa categories (especially SAWP and TFWP) require a job offer from a Canadian employer before applying for a visa. The employer may also need to provide a positive LMIA.
3: Apply for the Visa
Once you have a job offer and supporting documents, you can apply for the visa either:
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Online through the official Government of Canada website
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Or at your local Canadian Embassy or Visa Application Center
Processing times vary, so it’s best to apply as early as possible—especially before the harvest season begins.
Preparing for Your Move to Canada
Moving to a new country is a big step. Being well-prepared can help make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Housing and Transportation
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Accommodation: Most farms provide on-site housing for seasonal workers, often at a low cost. Ask your employer about housing details before your arrival.
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Transportation: Some farms also provide daily transportation to and from the fields. If not, you may need to arrange your own, especially if you’re living in a nearby town.
Health and Safety
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Insurance: Depending on your visa type, you may be covered under provincial health insurance or employer-sponsored insurance. Be sure to double-check what’s included.
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Safety Training: Canadian farms are required to train workers in basic safety measures. You may be taught how to use tools, protect yourself from weather conditions, and work efficiently.
Conclusion: A Simple Path to Work, Travel, and Grow in Canada
Fruit picking and packaging jobs offer an affordable and exciting opportunity to work in Canada, earn money, and experience a new culture. With the right visa, preparation, and attitude, you can make the most of this seasonal job, and maybe even set the stage for a longer stay.
If you’re hardworking, eager to travel, and ready for an adventure, this could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.