Fruit picking is one of the top jobs you can get in Canada on a working holiday visa or other temporary work visa.

Many farms across Canada offer fruit picking jobs that come with visa sponsorship, allowing foreigners to legally work and travel around the country.

If you’re interested in traveling to Canada while also earning a good income, fruit picking could be the perfect option for you.

This guide will provide an in-depth look at high paying fruit picking jobs in Canada that offer visa sponsorship.

We’ll cover the top fruit picking regions, required skills and experience, typical wages, housing and other benefits, and how to apply.

By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of this valuable working holiday opportunity.

Top Fruit Picking Regions in Canada

There are fruit orchards scattered across Canada, but a few key regions stand out as top destinations for fruit picking jobs.

These areas have large commercial orchards and consistently hire hundreds of seasonal workers each year.

British Columbia

The Southern Interior of BC is one of the largest tree fruit growing regions in Canada. Key areas include the Okanagan Valley, Similkameen Valley, Fraser Valley and Kootenays. Apples, cherries, apricots, peaches and pears grow abundantly here.

Ontario

The Niagara Peninsula has many grape and tender fruit farms. Common crops include grapes, cherries, peaches, plums and berries. Farms are also located around Lake Erie’s shoreline.

Quebec

The Eastern Townships region near the US border is well known for its apple orchards. There are also some berry farms. Montreal and Quebec City are convenient hubs for traveling further afield.

Nova Scotia

The Annapolis Valley is the primary fruit growing region, focusing on apples. Blueberries also thrive in the upland areas. Proximity to Halifax makes it easy to explore the Maritime provinces.

When looking for fruit picking jobs, focusing your search within one of these core regions will maximize your chances of securing employment. Employers in these areas have many seasonal positions to fill each season.

Required Skills and Experience

Most fruit picking farms don’t require any prior experience. The main qualifications needed are:

• Being physically fit for outdoor farm work. Picking fruit involves standing, bending and lifting for long periods.
• Having a valid passport and legal ability to work in Canada.
• Being willing to live and work remotely on a farm. Accommodations are often basic and communities are small.

Soft skills like a good work ethic, positive attitude and ability to work as part of a team are valued too. Farm work can be physically demanding, so being in overall good health is important.

Language skills are generally not necessary for entry-level picking jobs. However, French ability would expand job options in Quebec.

Foreign languages can also be an asset for communicating with coworkers from diverse backgrounds.

Wages and Benefits

Fruit picking wages vary depending on the region, crop and current market prices, but most jobs pay well above minimum wage. Here are some typical pay rates:

• Apples & pears: $0.80-1.20 per box or $12-18 per hour
• Cherries: $0.50-1 per pound or $15-25 per hour
• Grape/berry picking: $12-18 per hour
• Asparagus harvesting: $12-16 per hour

Some farms also offer performance-based incentives where fast pickers can earn bonuses. Full-time work is generally available from late spring to early fall depending on the harvest schedule.

Standard benefits provided include subsidized on-farm housing, usually a shared bunkhouse or campers. Three meals a day are often provided too. Transportation to/from local towns may be arranged.

Medical insurance and equipment like safety gear is the responsibility of employees. However, farms ensure training on safe and efficient harvesting techniques. Overall, salaries are quite competitive for entry-level work done in a picturesque rural setting.

Visa Sponsorship

To legally work in Canada, your employer must acquire a valid Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and agree to sponsor your work permit. For seasonal farm jobs, this process is usually straightforward.

Many fruit farms actively recruit foreigners each season through job fairs and international advertising. Their ongoing need for labor makes the case for overcoming Canada’s temporary labor shortages.

If accepted for employment, the farm handles the LMIA and work permit application on your behalf. Processing typically takes 4-6 weeks. Once approved, you can enter Canada, participate in mandatory on-boarding, and begin picking right away.

Farms hire people throughout the season on a rolling basis as positions become available. Early applications are recommended since the best jobs fill up fast. You normally need to commit to at least 4 months of consecutive work.

How to Apply

To start your search, network through international job platforms dedicated to agricultural work overseas like WWOOF and Harvest Trail. Farm websites also commonly post upcoming positions.

Reach out to individual farms directly in the regions covered above via phone or email. Introduce yourself, emphasize your strong work ethic and ask about upcoming openings. Stay in contact as hiring seasons approach.

Some aggregator sites like Canada Fruit and Canadian Fruit Growers also accept job applications year-round for their network of associated farms. Placement is not guaranteed but expands your reach.

When applying, have your resume and documents in order like passport, English language test if needed, and references. Be willing to travel on short notice once your work permit is approved. Perseverance and flexibility are key to landing one of these prime opportunities.

FAQs

Do I need experience for fruit picking jobs?

No prior experience is required as full training will be provided. The main qualifications are being physically fit and willing to learn.

How can I get housing provided on a farm?

Nearly all farms that hire foreign seasonal workers through visa sponsorship programs provide free shared housing, usually in bunkhouses or campers on-site. This is a significant benefit of the job.

What is the weather like for fruit picking season?

Most major tree fruit crops are harvested between June and October. Weather varies by region but generally ranges from 15-30°C with some rain. Proper clothing like hats, long sleeves, pants, and waterproof boots are important.

Can I travel after my work contract ends?

Yes, once your initial work permit period is complete, you are still in Canada on a valid visa and can travel leisurely for up to another 3 months typically. Just make sure to exit Canada by the date on your visa to remain immigration compliant.

How do I prepare for long days picking fruit?

Busy harvest seasons involve 10-12 hour days, with weekends also common during peak times. Prioritize getting adequate rest, staying hydrated, and fueling your body with healthy meals and snacks to sustain your energy levels. Building stamina through regular exercise is also helpful.