Farming Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in the Netherlands | How to Apply
Are you looking for a farming job with visa sponsorship in the Netherlands? Good news! The Netherlands is one of the top agricultural countries in Europe, and it offers many opportunities for international workers. Whether you’re experienced or just getting started, you can find farming jobs that include visa sponsorship. This guide explains how to find these jobs, apply for them, and move to the Netherlands legally.
Why Work in the Netherlands Farming Sector?
The Netherlands is the second-largest exporter of agricultural goods in the world. Farming is a key part of the country’s economy, and there is a high demand for workers in the agriculture sector. With many farms needing extra help, foreign workers are welcomed—especially those willing to do hands-on jobs like harvesting, planting, greenhouse work, and livestock care.
Key Benefits:
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High demand for labor year-round
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Attractive salaries and working conditions
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Legal work visa sponsorship
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Access to European work culture and lifestyle
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Pathway to permanent residency
Types of Farming Jobs in the Netherlands
The Dutch farming industry offers a wide range of agriculture jobs. Here are the most common:
1. Greenhouse Farming Jobs
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Picking and packaging tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers
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Climate-controlled environments
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Often available year-round
2. Fruit and Vegetable Harvesting
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Seasonal work during the spring, summer, and fall
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Apples, strawberries, asparagus, and cabbages are popular crops
3. Livestock and Dairy Farming
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Cattle care, milking, and feeding
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Pigs, poultry, and sheep jobs are also in high demand
4. Farm Equipment Operation
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Driving tractors and harvesters
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Maintenance of farming machinery
5. General Farm Labor
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Cleaning barns, irrigation, fencing, and feeding animals
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Entry-level roles available with training
Who Can Apply for Farming Jobs with Visa Sponsorship?
Anyone from outside the European Union can apply for farming jobs in the Netherlands if they meet the requirements. Dutch employers are often ready to sponsor international workers if they can’t find local labor.
Basic Requirements:
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Be at least 18 years old
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Physically fit to handle outdoor/manual labor
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Willing to work in different weather conditions
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Basic English or Dutch language skills (preferred)
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No criminal record
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Valid passport
Visa Sponsorship for Farming Jobs
To legally work in the Netherlands, non-EU citizens need a Single Permit that includes both a residence and work permit. Dutch employers must apply for this on your behalf.
Common Sponsored Visas:
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Single Permit (GVVA) – For work longer than 90 days
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Seasonal Work Visa – For work up to 24 weeks (mostly harvesting jobs)
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Highly Skilled Migrant Visa – Less common, but applicable to farm managers or specialists
How to Find Farming Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Here are the best ways to find real farming jobs in the Netherlands with visa sponsorship:
1. Online Job Portals
Use keywords like:
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“Farming jobs with visa sponsorship Netherlands”
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“Agriculture jobs for foreigners in the Netherlands”
2. Recruitment Agencies
Some agencies specialize in agriculture labor and can help with visa procedures. Examples:
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Otto Work Force
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Green Talent
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AB Midden Nederland
3. Dutch Farm Websites
Big farms often advertise directly on their own websites. Check:
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Van den Berg Roses
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Beekers Berries
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Dutch Flowers Group
How to Apply for Farming Jobs in the Netherlands
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
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CV/Resume (in English or Dutch)
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Motivation letter
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Valid passport
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Reference letters (if available)
Step 2: Search for Jobs
Visit the portals mentioned above and filter for “Visa Sponsorship” jobs.
Step 3: Apply Directly or via Recruiters
Send your resume and cover letter. Highlight:
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Your physical strength and willingness to work long hours
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Any farming experience (even family farming counts)
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Your ability to relocate quickly
Step 4: Interview & Job Offer
If selected, the employer will schedule a video interview. Once successful, they will send you a job offer and start the visa sponsorship process.
Step 5: Visa Process
The employer will apply for the work permit and you will submit other necessary documents at the Dutch embassy in your country.
Average Salary of Farming Jobs in the Netherlands
Farming jobs pay between €10 to €15 per hour, depending on the role and your experience. Seasonal workers usually work long hours and can earn around €1,500 to €2,500 per month.
Extra benefits:
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Overtime pay
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Housing (sometimes free)
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Transportation assistance
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Health insurance
Life as a Farm Worker in the Netherlands
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Work Hours: Usually 8–10 hours a day, 5–6 days a week
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Housing: Many farms provide shared housing near the job site
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Language: Most people speak English, but knowing some Dutch helps
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Weather: Can be cold and rainy—pack accordingly!
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Legal work visa & stay | Physically demanding work |
| Good pay for unskilled labor | Seasonal jobs may be short-term |
| Chance to live in Europe | Language barrier in rural areas |
| Opportunity to apply for PR later | May share housing with other workers |
When to Apply?
The best time to apply for farming jobs in the Netherlands is between January and May. Most seasonal hiring happens in spring and summer.
Final Tips
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Apply early and follow up on your applications.
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Be honest about your experience level.
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Check visa details on the Netherlands Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) website: https://ind.nl
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I get a permanent job in farming in the Netherlands?
Yes, some employers offer long-term contracts with a pathway to permanent residency.
Q2: Is previous farming experience required?
Not always. Some jobs offer training. However, experience helps your application.
Q3: Can I bring my family with a farming work visa?
Usually not with seasonal jobs, but long-term contracts might allow family reunification.
Q4: Do farming jobs in the Netherlands include accommodation?
Yes, many jobs offer free or low-cost housing near the farm.
Q5: What is the age limit for farming jobs?
There is no strict age limit, but most jobs require you to be physically fit and over 18.