$850 per Week in Fruit Picker Jobs in Canada 2025

As of 2025, the Canadian fruit picking sector continues to grow, and with average earnings rising up to $850 per week, this job market presents a compelling opportunity for individuals seeking legal employment, visa sponsorship, and entry into one of the world’s most welcoming countries.

Fruit picker jobs in Canada are especially appealing for international workers due to their accessibility, relatively low entry requirements, and the immediate opportunity to earn a stable income. These jobs are also available in rural areas of provinces such as British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia, where the fruit industry thrives during peak seasons.

For individuals with limited formal education or those looking for temporary yet rewarding work, fruit picking can serve as a stepping stone to more permanent roles or even pathways to residency. In recent years, the Canadian government has worked closely with employers to address labor shortages in this sector, making it easier for international applicants to gain employment with visa sponsorships.

What makes the 2025 scenario unique is the increased wage competitiveness in the agricultural sector. With shortages in local labor and a consistent demand for fresh produce in both domestic and international markets, employers are offering higher wages, better working conditions, and comprehensive support for foreign laborers.

The $850 weekly pay now associated with many fruit picker roles reflects this trend. This wage is often accompanied by accommodations, transportation support, and in some cases, meal allowances — making it not only a practical job choice but also a financially sound one.

It’s important to note that while the physical demands of fruit picking can be rigorous, many workers find the experience enriching. The work often takes place in beautiful natural settings, provides a sense of camaraderie among coworkers from diverse backgrounds, and allows workers to enjoy a structured routine.

In many regions, fruit picker jobs also provide a chance to explore Canadian culture firsthand, form connections, and build a work history that may support future immigration or job transition efforts. For young travelers, students, or families seeking seasonal work, this opportunity combines labor with a cultural experience that few other roles can offer.

Canada’s Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) and other immigration pathways also ensure that these jobs are not just open to Canadian citizens or permanent residents but also available to temporary foreign workers. These government-backed programs help streamline the process of hiring international labor, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and legal protection for all involved.

Employers under these programs are required to follow labor regulations, and many are known for treating foreign workers with the dignity and respect they deserve. This makes the prospect of fruit picking not just a job, but an opportunity rooted in fairness, compliance, and potential.

This guide will explore in full detail the world of fruit picking jobs in Canada for 2025. From job requirements and locations to the visa process, wage breakdowns, working conditions, and career advancement, every section will be tailored to give you the most reliable and comprehensive understanding.

Whether you’re a student looking for temporary employment, an individual considering immigration, or someone simply seeking a stable job in a new environment, this guide will walk you through every step of the process. In doing so, we aim to help you unlock the opportunity of earning up to $850 per week while contributing to one of Canada’s most vital industries.

Overview of Fruit Picker Jobs in Canada

Fruit picker jobs in Canada are an important part of the country’s agriculture sector. Every year, thousands of workers are needed to help harvest fruits across different provinces. These jobs are physically demanding, but they offer a good opportunity for seasonal work, especially for people looking to earn money in a short time. Many farms even pay around $850 per week or more, depending on the hours worked and the type of fruit picked.

What is a Fruit Picker Job?

A fruit picker is someone who works on a farm or orchard to pick ripe fruits by hand. The job involves collecting fruits like apples, cherries, grapes, peaches, strawberries, blueberries, pears, and plums. Workers often carry baskets or use simple tools to harvest fruits without damaging them. Fruit picking is usually done during the summer and early fall, depending on the type of fruit and the region.

These jobs are usually temporary, lasting a few weeks to a few months. They are open to both Canadian citizens and international workers through special visa programs.

Why Canada Needs Fruit Pickers

Canada is known for its rich farmland and large fruit production, especially in provinces like British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. However, Canadian farms often face a shortage of local workers willing to do physically demanding labor. Because of this, the country depends heavily on seasonal and foreign workers to help during harvest time.

Without fruit pickers, farms would lose crops, and the food supply chain would be affected. That’s why fruit picking is seen as essential work in Canada.

Who Can Work as a Fruit Picker?

Almost anyone can apply for a fruit picker job, as long as they are healthy, willing to work hard, and able to work outdoors for long hours. Many fruit pickers are students, travelers, or people looking for short-term employment. Foreign workers can also apply through visa programs like the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) or the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).

No advanced education or work experience is required for most fruit picker jobs, but being physically fit is important because the job can be tiring.

What Does the Job Involve?

The daily duties of a fruit picker can include:

• Picking ripe fruits by hand or using simple tools
• Sorting and packing fruits
• Checking fruit quality
• Carrying baskets or crates of fruits
• Working in hot, cold, or rainy weather

Workers may need to bend, climb ladders, and stand for long periods. The job requires focus, speed, and accuracy to avoid damaging the fruit.

When is the Fruit Picking Season?

The fruit picking season in Canada usually starts in late spring and continues until early fall. Here’s a general idea of when different fruits are picked:

• May to June: Strawberries
• June to July: Cherries, blueberries
• July to August: Peaches, plums
• August to October: Apples, grapes, pears

The exact timing depends on the region and weather. Farms often hire workers a few weeks before the peak harvest time, so it’s important to apply early.

Is it a Good Job for Foreign Workers?

Yes, fruit picking is a popular job for foreign workers in Canada. Many people from countries like Mexico, the Caribbean, India, the Philippines, and others come to Canada under visa programs to work during harvest seasons. These jobs are especially attractive because they offer a steady income, accommodation in some cases, and a chance to work in a safe and peaceful country.

Although the work can be hard, the pay is fair and often includes bonuses for speed or quality. Some farms pay workers by the hour, while others pay based on the amount of fruit picked. In both cases, earning $850 per week is common, especially during peak harvest.

Job Responsibilities of Fruit Pickers in Canada

Fruit picking is a physically demanding yet crucial part of Canada’s agricultural sector. As a fruit picker, your primary role involves harvesting various fruits like apples, cherries, blueberries, strawberries, and grapes from farms, orchards, or greenhouses. Here’s a breakdown of the typical responsibilities:

• Harvesting Fruits: Carefully picking ripe fruits by hand or using simple tools, ensuring the produce is not damaged.
• Sorting and Packaging: Sorting fruits by size and quality, and placing them into containers for shipping or local distribution.
• Inspecting Produce: Checking the fruits for bruises, rot, or insects to ensure only quality produce is packed.
• Cleaning and Maintenance: Maintaining cleanliness around work areas and helping with light maintenance of picking tools or equipment.
• Following Safety Protocols: Adhering to health and safety regulations set by the employer, including proper lifting techniques and hygiene practices.
• Working in All Weather Conditions: Being ready to work outdoors regardless of weather, since picking seasons can’t be delayed.
• Timely Reporting: Reporting any issues with the produce or equipment to supervisors promptly.

Fruit pickers often work early mornings or long hours, especially during peak harvest seasons. Flexibility, stamina, and teamwork are key.

Eligibility Criteria for Fruit Picker Jobs in Canada

To apply for fruit picking jobs in Canada, certain eligibility conditions must be met. These are generally straightforward but important for securing employment and a visa:

• Minimum Age: You must be at least 18 years old. Some farms may have a higher age requirement.
• Physical Fitness: Since the job is physically intensive, you must be in good health and capable of lifting, bending, and standing for long periods.
• Basic Education: No formal education is required, though basic English or French communication skills are often helpful.
• Work Experience: Experience in farm or agricultural work is a plus but not always mandatory. Employers may provide short training sessions.
• Clean Background Check: You must pass a background check and have no criminal record.
• Medical Exam: A medical examination may be required depending on your visa type.
• Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) Compliance: You must meet the eligibility rules under Canada’s TFWP, which is the main route for international agricultural workers.

Most fruit picking jobs are open to candidates from multiple countries as long as they apply through the proper visa channels and meet these criteria.

Visa Sponsorship for Fruit Picker Jobs

One of the major attractions of fruit picking jobs in Canada is the opportunity for visa sponsorship, especially under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). Here’s how it works:

• TFWP Overview: This government-backed program allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers when there are no suitable local candidates.
• Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): Employers must obtain an LMIA to prove that hiring a foreign worker won’t negatively affect the Canadian job market.
• Job Offer from Employer: You must have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer who is authorized to hire foreign workers.
• Visa Application: Once you have a job offer and the employer has an approved LMIA, you can apply for a work permit (temporary work visa).
• Duration of Stay: Most fruit picker visas last between 6 to 8 months, depending on the harvest season and employer’s contract.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: While these jobs are typically seasonal, consistent employment may open future paths to apply for Canadian permanent residency under programs like Agri-Food Pilot or Provincial Nominee Programs.

Visa-sponsored jobs help reduce the financial burden on international applicants and make the transition to working in Canada much smoother.

How to Find Fruit Picker Jobs in Canada in 2025

Government Job Portals

Canada’s Job Bank (jobbank.gc.ca) is a trusted source for agricultural work. It allows job seekers to search for fruit picking positions by location and employer, and filter roles that specifically offer visa sponsorship for foreign workers.

Farm-Specific Websites

Many fruit farms in Canada, such as BC Tree Fruits and Applewood Orchards, post seasonal job openings on their websites. Applicants can apply directly, view employment terms, and sometimes find information about accommodations and transportation support offered to workers.

Recruitment Agencies

Agricultural recruitment agencies like Workvantage or AGRICruit connect foreign workers with Canadian farms. They assist in job matching, help with paperwork, and often guide candidates through the visa sponsorship process, making them useful partners for overseas applicants looking for work.

Social Media and Facebook Groups

Facebook groups like “Farm Jobs Canada” or “Canada Fruit Picker Jobs 2025” regularly post hiring notices. These communities share personal tips, employer reviews, and direct hiring posts, making them a practical, real-time resource for job seekers.

LinkedIn and Job Boards

Platforms such as LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor often feature agricultural job listings from Canadian employers. Applicants can upload resumes, track applications, and even message recruiters directly to inquire about visa sponsorship and hiring procedures.

Networking with Past Workers

If you know someone who has previously worked on a Canadian farm, ask for references or employer contacts. Word-of-mouth remains one of the most effective and trustworthy ways to get introduced to reliable farm jobs that offer fair pay and legal support.

How to Apply for Fruit Picker Jobs

Applying for a fruit picker job in Canada in 2025 is straightforward if you follow the right steps. Whether you live in Canada or you’re applying from another country, there are many ways to land this kind of job. Most of the time, these jobs are seasonal, and they’re in high demand during harvesting months like May to September. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

1. Search for Job Openings

The first step is to look for available fruit picking jobs. Many Canadian farms advertise these roles online, and several websites regularly update job listings. Some of the most common job boards include:

• Job Bank Canada (the official government site)
• Indeed Canada
• Workopolis
• AgriRecruiting
• Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) portals

On these websites, you can search for jobs using terms like “fruit picker,” “seasonal farm worker,” or “harvest worker.”

Make sure to look at the job description carefully. Check if the employer is open to hiring foreign workers and if they offer visa sponsorship.

2. Prepare Your Resume (CV)

Even though these are labor jobs, it’s still important to submit a simple and clear resume. Your resume should include:

• Your full name and contact details
• Your work experience (especially in farming, gardening, or any physical labor)
• Any relevant skills like working outdoors, lifting heavy loads, or operating simple farm tools
• Your availability (start and end dates you can work)

If you have previous experience in farm work or fruit picking, mention it clearly. Canadian employers appreciate workers who are used to working outside for long hours.

3. Write a Simple Cover Letter (Optional but Helpful)

Some job applications might ask for a short cover letter. Even if it’s not required, it’s a good idea to write one. In your letter, explain why you’re interested in the job, any experience you have, and how soon you can start. Be honest and to the point.

Here’s an example line you can use: “I am interested in working as a fruit picker for the 2025 harvest season. I have experience in outdoor labor and I am available to work full-time during the season.”

4. Apply Online or Through an Agent

Once you have your resume ready, you can apply through the job website. Some employers will allow you to apply directly by filling out an online form. Others might ask you to send your resume and cover letter by email.

If you’re applying from outside Canada and looking for visa sponsorship, it’s often easier to go through an approved employment agency. Some farms hire international workers through official government programs like the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) or the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). These programs allow Canadian employers to legally bring in foreign workers when local labor is not available.

5. Attend a Virtual or In-Person Interview

If your application is selected, you might be asked to do a short interview. For most fruit picking jobs, the interview is usually simple. The employer may ask:

• If you’re physically fit to work long hours outdoors
• If you can work with a team
• If you’re available during the full harvest season
• Whether you’ve done similar work before

Interviews are often done over the phone or on a video call.

6. Get a Job Offer Letter

Once selected, the employer will send you a job offer letter. This is an important document, especially if you need to apply for a visa. The offer letter should include:

• Your job role
• Pay rate (e.g., $850 per week)
• Start and end dates
• Accommodation details (if provided)
• Work location
• Any additional benefits

Make sure to read the offer letter carefully and clarify anything you don’t understand before signing.

7. Apply for a Visa (For International Applicants)

If you’re not a Canadian citizen or resident, you’ll need a work permit to do this job legally. You will use your job offer letter to apply for a Temporary Work Permit under the TFWP. The employer may also help with the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which is required to hire a foreign worker.

The work visa process may vary depending on your country, but in general, you’ll need:

• A valid passport
• The signed job offer letter
• Proof of experience (if needed)
• Completed application forms
• A medical exam (in some cases)

Processing times can vary, so it’s better to apply as early as possible.

8. Get Ready for the Job

Once your visa is approved (if needed), the final step is to prepare for your journey and work. Some tips include:

• Pack clothes suitable for working outdoors in all weather
• Make arrangements for travel and accommodation (if not provided)
• Learn some basic English or French, depending on the province you’re working in

You should also understand your rights as a worker in Canada. Employers are required by law to treat all workers fairly, provide safe working conditions, and pay wages as agreed.

Top Employers Offering Fruit Picker Jobs

In Canada, several farms and agricultural companies hire seasonal fruit pickers each year. Some are small family-run farms, while others are large commercial farms that grow fruits for national and international markets. These employers often look for hardworking individuals who can commit to the full harvest season.

Most of the top employers are located in provinces with a strong agricultural base such as British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. Here are a few types of employers you’ll come across:

• Large Fruit Farms and Orchards: These include apple orchards in Ontario and Quebec, as well as berry and cherry farms in British Columbia. These farms often need dozens or even hundreds of workers during peak harvest times.
• Greenhouse Farms: While greenhouses usually grow vegetables, some also grow fruits like strawberries. They offer more consistent work conditions and may extend job offers outside the regular harvest season.
• Farm Cooperatives: These are groups of farms that work together and hire workers for multiple sites. Workers may move between farms during the season.

Some examples of well-known farms or cooperatives (not exhaustive) include:

• Jealous Fruits (British Columbia)
• Sun-Oka Fruit Farms (British Columbia)
• Algoma Orchards (Ontario)
• Blueberry Acres (Nova Scotia)
• Double Diamond Farms (Ontario)

These employers often advertise openings months in advance. Many of them also work with the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) or other temporary foreign worker programs, making it easier for international workers to apply.

Benefits and Challenges of Working as a Fruit Picker

Fruit picking is a unique job. It offers great benefits, especially for people who enjoy working outdoors and want to earn fast money in a few months. But it also comes with challenges. Understanding both sides can help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.

Benefits

• Good Weekly Pay: Many fruit pickers earn $850 or more per week, especially during the peak season. The pay can come in hourly wages, or based on how much you pick (called piece rate).
• Simple Job Requirements: No special degree or previous experience is required. As long as you’re fit and willing to work hard, you can get hired.
• Opportunity for Foreign Workers: Many Canadian farms support visa sponsorship through official government programs, which makes it easier for people from outside Canada to work legally.
• Accommodation and Meals Provided: Some employers offer on-site accommodation and basic meals at a low cost or for free. This helps you save more of your income.
• Work in Nature: If you enjoy fresh air and working outdoors, fruit picking offers a peaceful and natural environment.

Challenges

Physically Demanding Work: The job involves a lot of standing, bending, lifting, and carrying. It can be hard on your body if you’re not used to physical labor.

• Long Hours: During the harvest peak, you may be working 8 to 12 hours a day, sometimes under the sun or in the rain.
• Seasonal Nature: These are not permanent jobs. Most positions last only a few weeks to a few months.
• Remote Locations: Many farms are in rural areas, so you may be far from cities or towns. This can make it difficult to access other services unless transportation is provided.
• Weather Conditions: Fruit picking happens regardless of the weather. You might be picking apples in the hot sun or berries in light rain.

Wages, Payment Structure, and What to Expect

The average pay for a fruit picker in Canada in 2025 is around $850 per week, but it depends on several factors:

• Type of Fruit: Some fruits like cherries and strawberries are more delicate and may require slower, more careful picking, which affects how much you can earn per day.
• Payment Type: You can be paid by the hour or by the amount of fruit you pick. Hourly rates are usually between $15 to $18 per hour. On the other hand, piece-rate jobs pay you based on the quantity you harvest—if you’re fast and efficient, you can earn more than $850 in a week.
• Bonus Pay: Some farms offer bonuses for speed, quality, or completing the full season. For example, workers who stay until the end of the harvest may receive a $500–$1000 bonus.
• Working Hours: The number of hours you work in a week affects your earnings. Most pickers work between 40 to 60 hours per week, especially during the peak season.

How You Get Paid

You’ll usually be paid weekly or bi-weekly. Some employers also offer daily advances or bonuses if you need money before payday. Payments are often made through direct deposit or by cheque.

Make sure to keep track of your hours or fruit count to ensure your wages are correct. Good employers will give you a pay stub that shows hours worked, deductions (if any), and your net pay.

Accommodation and Living Costs

Living arrangements are a big part of seasonal fruit picker jobs. Many Canadian farms are located far from towns, so employers often provide accommodation on or near the farm. Here’s what you can expect:

Farm-Provided Accommodation

• On-Site Housing: Most employers offer shared rooms or bunkhouses on the farm. These may include beds, bathrooms, cooking areas, and sometimes Wi-Fi.
• Low Cost or Free: In many cases, accommodation is free, or the cost is taken out of your paycheck (around $30 to $50 per week).
• Shared Spaces: Rooms are usually shared with other workers, especially during busy harvest times. Expect to live in a dorm-style setup with others.

Meals and Cooking

Some farms provide meals, while others expect workers to cook their own food. If meals are not provided, the accommodation usually includes a kitchen with basic appliances. Groceries may be delivered to the site or require a weekly trip to the nearest town.

Other Living Costs

Living costs are generally low since your basic needs—housing and sometimes food—are covered. This means most of your earnings can be saved or sent back home. However, you may still need to budget for:

• Personal items (soap, shampoo, clothing)
• Phone credit or internet
• Transport for days off (if you want to visit town)

Life Outside Work

While rural life is quiet, farms often create a friendly community for workers. There may be games, events, or shared activities in the evenings or weekends. Some farms arrange trips to nearby towns or tourist spots during time off.

Conclusion

Fruit picker jobs in Canada offer a real and rewarding opportunity for people looking to earn steady income through honest, hands-on work. Whether you are a Canadian resident or an international worker, these seasonal jobs provide a way to make around $850 per week, especially during the busy harvest months. While the work is physically demanding and comes with its share of challenges, it is also straightforward, reliable, and offers a peaceful working environment surrounded by nature.

One of the biggest advantages of these jobs is that they don’t require formal education or experience. As long as you’re physically fit and motivated, you can be a successful fruit picker. Many employers provide housing and sometimes meals, making it easier for you to save a large portion of your earnings. For international workers, Canada’s visa programs make it easier to travel, work legally, and gain useful experience.

In 2025, fruit picking remains a vital job in Canada’s agriculture industry. With the country’s large-scale fruit production and ongoing labor shortages in rural areas, demand for seasonal workers is expected to stay strong. This means more job opportunities, better pay, and increased support for workers coming from abroad.

If you’re thinking about working as a fruit picker in Canada, this could be your chance to earn good money, meet new people, and experience life in one of the world’s most welcoming countries. Just make sure to apply early, choose a reliable employer, and prepare yourself for hard but rewarding work. With the right mindset and effort, you can turn a simple fruit picker job into a life-changing opportunity.

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$850 per Week in Fruit Picker Jobs in Canada