If you’re looking for an opportunity to travel abroad, earn money, and enjoy the outdoors, strawberry picking jobs in Finland might just be the perfect choice for you. Every year, Finland opens its doors to thousands of foreign workers to help with the berry-picking season, offering a chance to work in one of the safest and most beautiful countries in the world.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about strawberry picking jobs in Finland, including job requirements, how to find and apply for jobs, salary expectations, visa requirements, and more.
Why Choose Strawberry Picking Jobs in Finland?
Finland is a country that values nature, sustainability, and hard work. The strawberry picking season usually runs through the summer months, providing an ideal short-term work opportunity for people seeking seasonal employment. Farm owners in Finland rely on foreign workers to help with harvesting, and you don’t need prior experience to land a job in this sector.
One of the best things about working in Finland is the country’s commitment to fairness. Workers’ rights are protected, and employers must adhere to strict labor laws. Unlike some other countries, Finland prohibits Employment Agency fees, meaning you don’t need to pay anyone to secure a job. You’ll apply directly to employers, and all agreements are made between you and the farm owner.
Additionally, Finland offers a clean and safe working environment. Working outdoors in the fresh Finnish air while surrounded by natural beauty is a refreshing change for many people. Plus, Finland’s work culture places great value on balance, with employers often providing reasonable working conditions and affordable or even free accommodation for workers.
Job Duties: What Does a Strawberry Picker Do?
Strawberry picking might sound like simple work, but it involves various responsibilities. As a picker, you will:
- Identify ripe strawberries: You will need to pick strawberries that are ripe and ready for harvest. This requires some attention to detail, as unripe berries should not be harvested.
- Cultivate strawberries: Some farms may require help with planting and maintaining strawberry fields.
- Pack strawberries: Once harvested, strawberries are packed into containers or cartons, ensuring they are ready for sale and distribution.
- Other farm duties: Depending on the farm, you may also assist with other tasks like weeding, watering, or working in other parts of the farm.
No Prior Experience Required
One of the great benefits of strawberry picking jobs in Finland is that you don’t need any prior experience. Farms typically offer on-the-job training for first-time pickers, so you’ll quickly learn the ropes. Additionally, no formal education qualifications are required, making it accessible for people from various backgrounds.
While you won’t need to speak Finnish or Swedish, it’s helpful to have basic English skills, as this is often the common language spoken by workers and employers. Being physically fit and able to work long hours outdoors is important, as the job can be physically demanding, especially during peak harvest periods.
Working Conditions
Strawberry picking jobs are primarily outdoors, so be prepared to work in various weather conditions. Finland’s summer weather can be unpredictable, ranging from sunny and warm to cool and rainy. However, if you enjoy being outside and staying active, this work can be quite rewarding. You’ll need to be able to work quickly and steadily, especially since many farms pay pickers based on the amount they harvest.
Salary: How Much Can You Earn as a Strawberry Picker?
One of the most common questions people have about strawberry picking jobs is how much they can earn. The good news is that pay is directly related to how much you pick—so the more efficient and hardworking you are, the more money you can make.
Pay Per Kilo
Strawberry pickers in Finland are often paid per kilo of strawberries they pick. The recommended rate is €1.08 per kilo, which gives you an incentive to work quickly and accurately. If you are efficient, you can pick a substantial amount of berries each day, increasing your earnings.
Hourly Wages
In addition to picking, some farms may also offer jobs in planting and packing strawberries. These roles are typically paid on an hourly basis. The minimum hourly wage for strawberry pickers and other farm workers is €9.35 per hour, as regulated by Finland’s farm industry collective agreements.
On average, experienced pickers can earn around €1,500 to €2,000 per month, depending on how much they harvest and how many hours they work.
Job Requirements: Who Can Apply?
If you’re considering applying for a strawberry picking job in Finland, you’ll be happy to know that the requirements are relatively simple:
- No experience required: Training is provided on the job, making this an excellent opportunity for first-time workers.
- Basic English skills: You don’t need to speak Finnish or Swedish, but you should be able to communicate in basic English.
- Physical fitness: The job can be physically demanding, as it involves bending, walking, and lifting for long periods.
- Willingness to work outdoors: Since the work is entirely outdoors, you must be willing to work in different weather conditions.
- Motivation and reliability: Farm owners value workers who are dependable and motivated to complete tasks efficiently.
Many farms in Finland also offer accommodation for workers. Some employers provide housing for free, while others charge a small fee, typically around €3 per night, making it affordable for workers to stay on-site during the harvest season.
How to Apply for Strawberry Picking Jobs in Finland
There are several ways to apply for strawberry picking jobs in Finland. The most common method is to apply directly to farms via their websites or job boards. Here are some helpful tips for landing a job:
Direct Application to Farms
You can apply directly to farms that are hiring for strawberry picking jobs. Some farms need dozens or even hundreds of workers for the harvest season, and they post job openings on their websites.
One farm, for instance, requires 140 workers for the upcoming season. You can visit the farm’s website, click on the “Apply” button, and follow the instructions. Be sure to have all your personal information ready, including an updated CV.
Email Applications
Some farms may prefer email applications. In your email, introduce yourself, explain your interest in working on a farm, and outline any relevant skills or experience you have (even if it’s unrelated to farming). Mention when you’re available to start and how long you can work. Keep the email professional, but also make it personal by showing enthusiasm for the opportunity.
Job Boards
You can also find strawberry picking jobs in Finland on popular job search platforms such as LinkedIn and Indeed.com. These platforms often have listings for seasonal jobs, including farm work, so be sure to check regularly during the hiring season.
Visa Requirements for Non-European Workers
If you’re a non-European Union (EU) citizen, you will need a visa or work permit to work in Finland. The type of visa you need depends on the length of your employment contract. For seasonal work, which typically lasts between three to nine months, you’ll need to apply for a Residence Permit for Seasonal Work.
How to Apply for a Seasonal Work Visa
- Get a job offer: Before applying for a visa, you’ll need a confirmed job offer from a farm in Finland. Once you receive the job offer, the visa application process can begin.
- Submit your visa application: Applications for seasonal work visas are processed by Finnish embassies and consulates. You’ll need to provide documents such as your passport, job offer letter, and proof of sufficient funds.
- Processing time: Visa processing times can vary, so it’s important to apply as early as possible. In general, it can take a few weeks to receive your visa decision.
Once your visa is approved, you’re free to travel to Finland and begin working. It’s worth noting that Finland offers opportunities for visa extensions if you find additional work after your initial contract ends.
Conclusion
Strawberry picking jobs in Finland offer a unique opportunity for seasonal workers to experience the beauty and culture of this Nordic country while earning money. With no prior experience required and competitive wages, these jobs are ideal for anyone looking for a short-term adventure abroad.
From basic job requirements to how to apply for a visa, this guide has covered all the essentials for landing a strawberry picking job in Finland. Whether you’re from Europe or a non-European country, you can take advantage of this exciting opportunity. So, why not make the most of the Finnish summer and apply for a strawberry picking job today?
