Seasonal Jobs: Understanding DOL Resources & EU Alternatives

You're searching for seasonal job opportunities, perhaps starting with resources from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). That's a great starting point! However, if you're open to working abroad, exploring seasonal work in Europe through EUSEPS (Europe Seasonal Employment Program Services) can offer a faster, safer, and equally rewarding experience. Let's explore both avenues.

Understanding Seasonal Job Resources on DOL.gov

The U.S. Department of Labor provides resources for both job seekers and employers regarding seasonal work. This includes information on:

Job Listings: Connecting you to seasonal and temporary jobs.
H-2B Visa Program: Information for employers seeking to hire foreign workers for temporary non-agricultural jobs. The DOL must certify that there are not enough qualified U.S. workers available and that employing H-2B workers won't negatively impact the wages and working conditions of U.S. workers.
Worker Rights & Protections: Information on farmworker protections and other labor laws.

The H-2B Visa: Challenges and Considerations

The H-2B visa program allows U.S. employers to hire foreign nationals for temporary, non-agricultural work. While it can be a pathway to seasonal work in the U.S., it's important to be aware of potential challenges:

Temporary Need: Employers must prove their need is genuinely short-term. The need can be a one-time occurrence, seasonal, peakload, or intermittent.
Visa Caps: The number of H-2B visas is capped, and the program is often oversubscribed. For fiscal year 2026, there is a statutory cap of 66,000 H-2B visas. An additional 64,716 visas have been made available for fiscal year 2026.
Returning Worker Preference: A portion of the supplemental visas are set aside for returning workers.
Employer Requirements: Employers must advertise the position to be filled by a foreign worker and interview U.S. applicants.
Visa Requirements: To be eligible for the H-2B visa, applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the period of stay in the US, and have sufficient English skills for the position.

Why Consider Seasonal Work in Europe?

For many, navigating the H-2B visa process can be complex and time-consuming. Seasonal work in Europe offers a compelling alternative with several advantages:

Diverse Opportunities: Europe boasts a wide range of seasonal jobs in sectors like tourism, hospitality, agriculture, and winter sports.
Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in a new culture, learn a new language, and broaden your horizons.
Competitive Wages: Many European countries offer competitive wages and benefits for seasonal workers.
Worker Protections: The EU has strong regulations in place to protect the rights of seasonal workers.

Seasonal Job Options in Europe

Here's a glimpse of the seasonal job landscape in various European countries:

Country	Popular Sectors	Peak Seasons	Average Salary
France	Vineyards, Ski Resorts, Tourism	Spring (vine harvesting), Winter (ski resorts)	€10.50–€12.50 per hour
Spain	Hospitality, Agriculture, Beach Resorts	Summer (tourism), Autumn (olive picking)	€7–€10 per hour
Italy	Farming, Tourism, Cultural Events	Spring and Summer	€8–€11 per hour
Germany	Agriculture, Festivals, Hospitality	April to November (agriculture), Year-round (hospitality)	€9–€12 per hour
Austria	Ski Resorts, Winter Tourism, Hospitality	Winter (December to March)	€10–€13 per hour (plus accommodation in some jobs)
Switzerland	Winter Tourism	Winter (December to February)	€20–€25 per hour

Other countries with seasonal opportunities include Greece, Portugal, Cyprus and the Netherlands.

Visa Requirements for European Seasonal Work

Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and the country where you plan to work. Generally, you'll need:

A valid job offer from a European employer.
Proof of accommodation.
Proof of return travel plans.
Health insurance.

For stays up to 90 days, a Schengen visa may be sufficient. Longer stays typically require a temporary residence permit. EU rules allow third-country nationals to work for up to nine months within a 12-month period. Always check the specific requirements of the country where you intend to work.

How to Apply:

Find a Job: Secure a job contract from a licensed employer. Platforms like EURES (European Job Mobility Portal) can be helpful.
Check Visa Requirements: Contact the embassy or consulate of the country where you'll be working.
Apply for a Work Visa: Submit your application to the appropriate embassy or consulate. Apply early, as approvals can take weeks.
Prepare Documents: Gather your passport, employment contract, proof of financial means, health insurance certificate, and any other required forms.

FAQ About Seasonal Work in Europe

How much does a visa cost? Visa costs vary by country, but expect to pay an application fee. For example, the UK Seasonal Worker visa costs £319.
How long does the visa process take? Visa processing times vary, but it can take several weeks. Apply as early as possible.
Do I need to speak the local language? While not always required, knowing the local language can significantly improve your job prospects.
Will accommodation be provided? Some employers, especially in sectors like ski resorts and hospitality, offer free or subsidized accommodation.

EUSEPS can help you navigate these requirements and connect you with reputable employers offering seasonal positions across Europe.

Ready to explore seasonal work opportunities in Europe? Start your application with EUSEPS today and discover a faster, safer path to your next adventure. Also, learn about your rights and protections as a seasonal worker in the EU.