Italy’s agricultural sector is a cornerstone of its economy. From vineyards in Tuscany to olive groves in Puglia and citrus farms in Sicily, Italian farmers need foreign workers. The Decreto Flussi allocates 47,000 dedicated agricultural work permits annually for 2026, 2027, and 2028 .
Why Italian Farms Need Foreign Labor
Italian youth are leaving rural areas for cities, creating a massive labor gap during harvest seasons. The government has made agriculture the highest priority sector with the earliest Click Day (January 12, 2026) .
Types of Farm Worker Jobs Available
| Crop/Industry | Regions | Average Daily Wage (EUR) | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grape Harvest (Vineyards) | Tuscany, Piedmont, Veneto | €50 – €80 | September – October |
| Olive Harvest | Puglia, Calabria, Tuscany | €45 – €70 | October – December |
| Citrus Fruits | Sicily, Calabria | €45 – €70 | November – March |
| Tomato Harvest | Emilia-Romagna, Puglia | €50 – €75 | July – September |
| Apple Harvest | Trentino, South Tyrol | €50 – €80 | August – October |
| General Farm Labor | All regions | €45 – €70 | Year-round |
Real Job Opportunity (2026)
Farm Collaborator – Farm in Mantua Province (near Lake Garda)
- Location: Northern Mantua, Lombardy
- Role: Organic farming, basic maintenance (plumbing, electrical, masonry), animal care, green maintenance
- Requirements: Age 30-55, speaks Italian well, English beneficial, no vices, respectful, independent
- Compensation: Confidentially negotiated during interview
- Contact: Call +39 345 839 1914 or view WWOOF Italia host profile
Visa Sponsorship for Farm Workers
Agricultural workers have the largest dedicated quota in the Decreto Flussi:
- 47,000 permits per year (2026, 2027, 2028)
- Click Day: January 12, 2026 (earliest of all sectors)
- Eligible nationalities: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and 35+ other countries
- Returning worker quota: Additional 5,000-7,000 spots for workers with previous Italian agricultural experience
Requirements for Farm Worker Visas
- Minimum age: 18 years
- Physically fit for outdoor manual labor
- No formal education required
- Basic Italian (helpful but not always required)
- Clean criminal record
- Valid passport
How to Apply for Farm Worker Jobs in Italy
- Connect with agricultural associations like Coldiretti or Confagricoltura (they submit applications on behalf of farmers)
- Register on EURES and search for “agricultural worker Italy”
- Target specific regions by crop season (Tuscany for grapes, Puglia for olives, Sicily for citrus)
- Secure a job offer from an Italian farm or agricultural cooperative
- Your employer applies for Nulla Osta on Click Day (January 12)
- Apply for work visa at Italian embassy
The Pakistan-Italy Agreement (2026)
In a historic bilateral agreement, Italy has committed to issuing 10,500 work visas for Pakistani skilled workers with 3,500 workers per year. Agriculture is a priority sector under this agreement, giving Pakistani applicants a dedicated allocation .
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need farming experience?
No. Many farms accept beginners and provide on-the-job training. Physical fitness and willingness to learn are more important.
Is accommodation provided?
Yes, most farms provide free or low-cost housing for seasonal workers, often on the property .
What is the typical work schedule?
Farm work follows daylight hours. During peak harvest, 8-10 hour days, 5-6 days per week.
Can I return next season?
Yes. Workers who have held seasonal permits can apply for multi-year permits for subsequent seasons, with reserved quotas.
