Complete Guide to Finding Agricultural Work in Spain: Requirements, Salaries, and Registration Process

Spain is one of the largest agricultural countries in Europe, known as “Europe’s food basket” thanks to its massive production of fruits and vegetables. Due to this enormous production volume, the Spanish market faces a continuous labor shortage, which opens doors for foreign workers seeking agricultural employment opportunities in Spain.

In this detailed article, we will guide you step by step on how to obtain seasonal or permanent agricultural work contracts, the required conditions, expected salaries, and how to avoid scams.

Why Work in Agriculture in Spain?

Spain’s agricultural sector is a major gateway for many young people aspiring to migrate and work in Europe. Opportunities are heavily concentrated in regions such as Huelva, Almería, and Murcia. These opportunities are characterized by:

1. Legal contracts: Contracts are often under the framework of “circular migration” (seasonal contracts) that guarantee worker rights.
2. Hard currency: Earning wages in euros helps improve the living conditions of workers and their families.
3. Renewal possibility: Complying with return laws after the season ends increases the worker’s chances of returning again or obtaining long-term residency in the future.

Basic Requirements for Agricultural Work in Spain

To obtain an agricultural work contract in Spain, there are several conditions imposed by Spanish authorities and employers. Although they may vary slightly depending on the season and crop, the basics are:

• Age: Preferably between 21 and 45 years old (may vary according to international agreements).
• Physical fitness: Field work requires physical effort and good health, free from chronic diseases.
• Agricultural experience: Although not always mandatory, having previous experience in crop harvesting (such as strawberries, olives, or citrus fruits) gives priority to your application.
• Commitment to return: For seasonal contracts, you must pledge to return to your home country after the contract ends.

Salaries and Working Conditions on Spanish Farms

One of the most important questions on job seekers’ minds is: “How much will I earn?” Salaries in Spain are subject to the minimum wage (SMI) and are usually agreed upon based on collective agreements (Convenio Colectivo) for each province.

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Illustrative Table of Working Conditions and Approximate Salaries (2024-2025)

Element	Details
Daily wage	Between 40 and 55 euros (depending on region and crop)
Working hours	6.5 to 8 hours daily (with breaks)
Working days	6 days per week (one day off)
Accommodation	Usually provided by employer (free or for a nominal amount deducted from salary)
Transportation	Provided from accommodation to farm
Contract duration	Ranges from 3 to 9 months (seasonal contracts)

Note: Overtime hours are paid separately at a higher rate than regular hours.

How to Search for Agricultural Work Contracts (Registration Methods)

There are three main and reliable ways to search for agricultural job opportunities in Spain:

1. Through Official Government Agencies (such as ANAPEC in Morocco)

This method is considered the safest, as seasonal recruitment campaigns (especially for strawberry picking season) are organized in partnership between the Spanish government and governments of labor-exporting countries.

• Register with your local employment agency
• Wait for the announcement of application openings (usually at the end of the year for the following year’s season)

2. Search Through the European EURES Portal

The EURES website is the official portal for job mobility in Europe. Spanish farmers post job offers sometimes targeting workers from outside the European Union if they cannot find local alternatives.

• Search steps: Go to the website, select “Spain” as the country, and in the search box type “Agricultura” or “Peón agrícola”

3. Direct Contact with Agricultural Cooperatives

You can contact Spanish agricultural companies and cooperatives directly via email and send your CV translated into Spanish.

• Search Google for: “Cooperativas agrícolas en Huelva” or “Empresas de frutas en Almería”

Agricultural Seasons with Highest Labor Demand

Work is not limited to one season, as Spain produces diverse crops throughout the year. Knowing the timing increases your chances of applying at the right time:

Strawberry and red fruit season (Huelva):

• Registration begins: December/January
• Work period: February to June
• Note: Women are in high demand, but there are also opportunities for men

Olive season (Jaén/Cordoba):

• Work period: Winter (November – February)

Citrus and summer fruits season (Valencia/Murcia):

• Work period: Extended periods in spring and summer

Greenhouse farming (Almería):

• Work period: Available almost year-round for vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, etc.)

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Required Documents for Obtaining a Seasonal Work Visa

After obtaining the work contract, you will need to obtain an entry visa. The file usually requires:

• Valid passport (not less than 6 months validity)
• Original work contract stamped by the Spanish immigration office
• Medical certificate proving freedom from contagious diseases
• Criminal record certificate (good conduct) translated and authenticated
• Passport photos and completed visa application form

Important Warning: Avoid Fake Work Contracts

With the increasing demand for immigration to Spain, scammers who sell “fake work contracts” for exorbitant amounts are becoming active.

• Golden rule: Agricultural work contracts in Spain are often free or with very nominal fees through government agencies
• Do not pay large sums of money to unknown individuals who promise you guaranteed contracts via Facebook or WhatsApp
• Always verify the company name and its tax registration number (NIF) in Spain

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Searching for an agricultural job opportunity in Spain requires patience, continuous monitoring of official announcements, and careful preparation of documents. Opportunities exist and are real, especially for hard workers willing to work seriously. Always remember to follow legal channels to ensure your rights and safety.

We wish you success in your search journey, and don’t hesitate to browse the rest of the website’s articles for more information about working in Europe.