Top Fruit Picking Jobs in Canada Offering Free Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners

Fruit Picking Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship (SAWP & LMIA) — Top Regions, Pay & How to Apply.

Canada’s agricultural industry is booming, and fruit picking jobs have become one of the most accessible entry points for foreigners seeking employment abroad. With vast orchards and farms spread across provinces like British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec, the demand for seasonal workers continues to rise. What makes these jobs especially attractive is the free visa sponsorship offered by many employers, allowing international workers to legally enter Canada under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).

Seasonal fruit-picking jobs are one of the most reliable pathways for foreign workers to gain legal, paid work experience in Canada — and many of those roles come with employer-sponsored visa support (often called “free visa sponsorship” in job listings). This guide explains how employer sponsorship works, which programs to target (SAWP and LMIA-based ag streams), the best provinces and seasons for fruit work, typical pay and benefits, and step-by-step application tips so you can apply safely and effectively
This article explores the top fruit picking jobs in Canada, eligibility requirements, benefits, and how foreigners can apply successfully.

Understanding “Free Visa Sponsorship” in Canada

When we talk about “free visa sponsorship,” it refers to the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Under Canadian law, employers hiring through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) are generally responsible for the $1,000 CAD application fee. Furthermore, in the agricultural sector, many employers are required to cover or subsidize transportation and housing costs for their foreign staff.

The Two Main Sponsorship Pathways

• Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP): Specifically for citizens of Mexico and certain Caribbean countries. It offers the most “protected” form of sponsorship, with government-to-government oversight.

• Agricultural Stream (TFWP): Open to workers from any country. This is the primary route for applicants from Asia, Africa, and Europe to find fruit-picking roles.

Top Regions for Fruit Picking Jobs in 2026

Canada’s geography dictates its harvest schedule. Targeting the right province at the right time is the secret to securing back-to-back contracts.

British Columbia: The Okanagan Valley

Known as the “Fruit Basket of Canada,” BC is the top destination for picking cherries, apples, peaches, and grapes.

• Key Hubs: Kelowna, Penticton, and Osoyoos.

• Peak Season: June to October.

Ontario: The Niagara Peninsula

This region is the heart of Canada’s tender fruit and grape production.

• Key Hubs: Niagara-on-the-Lake, St. Catharines, and Leamington.

• Peak Season: July to September (Stone fruits) and September to November (Grapes).

• Sponsorship Focus: Large greenhouse and vineyard operations here are prolific users of the TFWP.

Quebec: Berries and Apples

Quebec is a powerhouse for strawberries, blueberries, and orchard fruits.

• Key Hubs: Monteregie, Laurentians, and Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean.

• Language Tip: While many farms hire English speakers, a basic understanding of French can be a competitive advantage here.

Wages, Benefits, and Financial Realities

One of the most attractive parts of Canadian fruit-picking is the transparent wage structure. Workers are protected by provincial labor laws, ensuring they receive at least the minimum wage, though many pickers earn more through piece-rate (pay per bucket/bin).

📊 Comparison of Earnings and Benefits (Estimated for 2026)

Pro Tip: Under the SAWP and Agricultural Stream, employers are typically mandated to provide affordable, inspected housing on-site or nearby, significantly reducing your living expenses.

How to Qualify for a Sponsored Farm Job

Securing a spot on a Canadian farm requires more than just a willing spirit. You must meet specific criteria to pass the visa interview and the physical demands of the job.

• NOC Code Proficiency: Familiarize yourself with NOC 85101 (Harvesting labourers). This is the code you will use on your application.

• Physical Fitness: Fruit picking involves long hours in various weather conditions, climbing ladders, and heavy lifting.

• Clean Record: You must provide a Police Clearance Certificate from your home country.

• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

• No Formal Education Needed: Unlike many other Canadian visas, fruit picking usually requires no high school or university degree.

Why Fruit Picking Jobs in Canada Are Popular
• Visa Sponsorship: Many farms sponsor foreign workers, covering visa application costs.
• Free Accommodation: Employers often provide housing or subsidized rent.
• Competitive Pay: Average wages range from CAD $15–$20 per hour depending on the province.
• High Demand: Labor shortages in agriculture make foreign workers essential.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Some workers transition from seasonal jobs to long-term opportunities.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for 2026

To avoid the thousands of “visa scams” online, follow the official government-approved path.

1. Search the Job Bank: Go to JobBank.gc.ca and filter by “Temporary Foreign Workers.” Search for “Fruit Picker” or “Harvesting Labourer.”

2. Verify the LMIA Status: Ensure the job posting explicitly states that the employer has applied for or already has an approved LMIA to hire foreign workers.

3. Prepare a Canadian-Style Resume: Focus on physical stamina, any previous agricultural experience, and your ability to work in a team.

4. The Interview: Most farmers will interview via Zoom or WhatsApp. Be ready to discuss your availability and commitment to the full season.

5. The Visa Application: Once you have your signed contract and LMIA number, you (or your employer’s representative) will apply for the Work Permit. The current fee is $155 CAD.

Eligibility Criteria for Foreign Workers
To qualify for fruit picking jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship, applicants must:
• Be 18 years or older.
• Have basic physical fitness to work long hours outdoors.
• Possess no prior experience (training is usually provided).
• Meet visa requirements under the TFWP.
• Be willing to work seasonal contracts (usually 3–8 months).

Top Fruit Picking Jobs in Canada (2026)
1. Apple Picking Jobs – Ontario & British Columbia
• Peak Season: August to October.
• Visa Sponsorship: Offered under TFWP.
• Pay: CAD $16–$18/hour.
• Benefits: Free accommodation, transportation to orchards.
• Why Apply: Ontario and BC are Canada’s largest apple producers, ensuring steady demand.
2. Berry Picking Jobs – Quebec & British Columbia
• Peak Season: June to August.
• Visa Sponsorship: Available for foreign workers.
• Pay: CAD $15–$17/hour.
• Benefits: Free meals on-site, housing provided.
• Why Apply: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are major exports, creating thousands of jobs.
3. Grape Harvesting – Ontario (Niagara Region)
• Peak Season: September to October.
• Visa Sponsorship: Common among vineyards.
• Pay: CAD $17–$20/hour.
• Benefits: Free accommodation, potential wine industry career growth.
• Why Apply: Niagara is Canada’s wine capital, offering unique cultural experiences.
4. Peach & Plum Picking – British Columbia
• Peak Season: July to September.
• Visa Sponsorship: Available for seasonal workers.
• Pay: CAD $16/hour.
• Benefits: Subsidized housing, health insurance.
• Why Apply: BC’s Okanagan Valley is famous for stone fruits, ensuring consistent employment.
5. Cherry Picking – British Columbia
• Peak Season: June to July.
• Visa Sponsorship: Offered by large orchards.
• Pay: CAD $18/hour.
• Benefits: Free transportation, accommodation.
• Why Apply: High demand due to Canada’s cherry exports to Asia.

Benefits of Fruit Picking Jobs in Canada
• Legal Work Authorization: Visa sponsorship ensures compliance with Canadian law.
• Cultural Exchange: Opportunity to meet workers from around the world.
• Skill Development: Learn agricultural techniques and teamwork.
• Financial Stability: Seasonal jobs provide steady income.
• Career Pathways: Some workers transition to permanent farm management roles.

How to Apply for Fruit Picking Jobs in Canada
1. Research Employers: Look for farms offering visa sponsorship.
2. Prepare Documents: Passport, resume, and proof of fitness.
3. Apply Online: Through official job portals or farm websites.
4. Visa Process: Employer submits a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to sponsor your visa.
5. Travel & Work: Once approved, you can legally enter Canada and begin work.

Risks & Considerations
• Scams: Beware of fraudulent agencies charging high fees. Always verify employers through official Canadian government websites.
• Seasonal Nature: Jobs are temporary; plan finances accordingly.
• Physical Demands: Work involves long hours outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Language Barrier: Basic English or French may be required.

Conclusion

The 2026 fruit picking season in Canada offers a lucrative and adventurous path for those willing to put in the hard work. By focusing on provinces like British Columbia and Ontario, verifying LMIA-sponsored job offers, and understanding your rights as a worker, you can turn a seasonal contract into a life-changing experience.
Fruit picking jobs in Canada are a gateway for foreigners seeking employment abroad with free visa sponsorship. With competitive pay, accommodation benefits, and cultural experiences, these jobs remain highly attractive in 2025. Whether you’re picking apples in Ontario, cherries in British Columbia, or grapes in Niagara, Canada’s agricultural industry offers rewarding opportunities for international workers.
By applying through legitimate channels and preparing adequately, foreigners can secure seasonal employment and potentially build long-term careers in Canada’s thriving agricultural sector.