Seasonal Berry Picking Work in Switzerland for Foreigners (2025 Hiring)

Ever dreamed of working in the Swiss countryside?
Green valleys. Snowy mountains in the distance.
And fields full of fresh, juicy berries waiting to be picked.

Well, 2025 might just be your year.

Switzerland — known for cheese, chocolate, and clean living — also has a growing need for seasonal berry pickers.
And guess what? These jobs are open to foreigners too. With simple requirements and the opportunity to work legally, they’re perfect for those looking to work abroad for a few months, earn good money, and soak up the beauty of the Alps.

Let’s break it down — everything you need to know about berry picking jobs in Switzerland this year, and how to apply right now.

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🌱 Why Switzerland Needs Foreign Berry Pickers

Every summer, berry farms across Switzerland face the same challenge — not enough local workers.
Why? Because the work is seasonal, physically demanding, and often in rural areas where not many Swiss residents live.

So, farmers turn to foreign workers.
Most pickers come from Eastern Europe, the Balkans, South Asia, and Latin America.
But applications are open to anyone legally eligible to work — and many farms now provide work permits, accommodation, and even meals.

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🍓 Types of Berries You’ll Pick

Switzerland grows all kinds of berries, including:

• Strawberries 🍓
• Raspberries
• Blueberries
• Blackberries
• Currants

Most farms use organic or low-chemical methods. You’ll be picking by hand — gently, carefully — to keep the fruit fresh and undamaged.

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📅 When Does the Berry Picking Season Start?

The season typically runs from May to September, depending on the farm and region.

Here’s a general idea:

• Strawberries: Late May to July
• Raspberries & Currants: June to August
• Blueberries: July to September
• Blackberries: July to September

You’ll usually work 5–6 days a week, starting early in the morning (around 6–7 AM) and finishing by early afternoon.

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💶 How Much Can You Earn?

Let’s talk money — the part everyone wants to know.

Berry picking jobs in Switzerland are paid by hour or weight (kilos).
The minimum wage for agricultural workers is around CHF 15–18/hour depending on the canton (region).

So, working 40–50 hours a week, you could earn:

👉 CHF 2,500 to 3,200 per month
That’s approximately $2,800–3,500 USD/month — not bad for seasonal work!

Some farms offer bonuses for productivity or working the entire season.

💡 Tip: The faster and more carefully you pick, the more you can earn.

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🏠 Accommodation & Food

Many berry farms offer:

• 🛏️ Free or cheap accommodation (shared rooms or dorms)
• 🍽️ One or two meals per day
• 🚿 Access to hot water, toilets, and kitchens
• 🚗 Transport to nearby towns

Sometimes rent is deducted from your pay (CHF 300–400/month), but it’s still far cheaper than renting elsewhere in Switzerland.

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🛂 Do You Need a Visa?

Yes, but it depends on your nationality.

If you’re from:

• EU/EFTA countries: No visa needed, just register upon arrival.
• Non-EU countries (like India, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines): You’ll need a seasonal work visa.

🔑 Important:
The employer must sponsor your work permit.
Some farms work with approved labor agencies to hire foreigners legally.

So always make sure you’re applying through a legit farm or recruiter.

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📋 Who Can Apply?

You don’t need a fancy degree. Just:

• Age 18–45 (preferred)
• Physically fit
• Willing to work outdoors in all weather
• Able to work carefully and quickly
• English, German, or French skills (basic) — helpful but not required

Most farms value honesty, work ethic, and reliability over qualifications.

Some prefer applicants with farm experience, but it’s not mandatory.

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📑 Documents Required

To apply, you’ll usually need:

• Valid passport (6+ months left)
• Simple CV/resume
• Passport-sized photo
• Police clearance certificate (sometimes)
• Medical fitness certificate
• Willingness to sign a seasonal work contract

If a visa is required, the employer will guide you through the process.

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🌍 How to Apply – Step by Step

1. Search for Jobs Online

Check websites like:

• agrarjobs.ch
• jobup.ch
• Indeed Switzerland
• EURES Portal – for EU citizens
• Local Facebook groups like “Farming Jobs in Europe”

2. Apply Directly or via Agency

Send your documents. Some farms have online application forms.

Be honest and clear about your availability.

3. Wait for Interview or Offer

You might be contacted for a short interview (video call or phone).

4. Confirm Details & Sign Contract

If accepted, you’ll receive an official job offer.

5. Apply for Visa (if needed)

With employer support, apply at the nearest Swiss embassy.

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👩‍🌾 Real Story: Jovana from Serbia

Jovana, a 24-year-old student from Serbia, applied for a berry picking job in Fribourg. She worked for 3 months, earned CHF 8,000 total, and made friends from Italy, Nepal, and Portugal.

“It was hard at first — early mornings and long days. But by week two, I got used to it. I saved money, saw the Swiss Alps, and ate more strawberries than I probably should have!”

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❗ Caution: Avoid Scams

Some fake recruiters may try to charge high fees or promise unrealistic salaries. Be smart.

✅ Always ask for a written job offer
✅ Don’t pay large fees upfront
✅ Verify the employer’s website
✅ Read reviews or ask past workers (if possible)

Stick with trusted job boards and government sites.

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✅ Final Tips for 2025 Applicants

• Apply early (Feb–Apr is peak hiring time)
• Practice lifting/picking motions — helps reduce fatigue
• Learn a few German/French phrases (for bonus points)
• Bring sunblock, gloves, and work boots
• Stay hydrated — Swiss summers can get hot in the fields

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📢 Ready to Apply?

Switzerland’s fields are calling.

If you’re ready to work hard, meet people from around the world, and experience a truly unique side of Europe — berry picking might be your perfect adventure in 2025.

Apply now and secure your spot before the season starts!