Fruit Picking Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners
Introduction: The Growing Demand for Farm Workers in the USA
Across the United States, there is an urgent need for agricultural workers, especially in fruit picking and harvesting. With fewer Americans taking these roles, many U.S. employers now sponsor foreign laborers to work on farms, orchards, and vineyards. This opens a door for foreigners—especially from Africa, Asia, and Latin America—to earn in dollars, gain U.S. work experience, and possibly transition to long-term opportunities.
If you’re looking for an entry-level job that pays well and offers visa sponsorship, this could be your big break.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about:
- Available fruit picking jobs with free visa offers
- How to apply legally from your country
- Salaries in U.S. dollars
- Real-life examples of people already working in the U.S.
- The type of visa you need
- Trusted employers and job portals
Let’s dive in.
What Is a Fruit Picking Job?
Fruit picking jobs are seasonal agricultural roles where workers help harvest crops like apples, strawberries, grapes, blueberries, oranges, and peaches. These jobs typically take place on farms or orchards during the harvest seasons and involve tasks like:
- Picking ripe fruits
- Sorting and packing
- Lifting and carrying crates
- Quality inspection
These jobs don’t require high education or experience. They’re physically demanding but rewarding, especially when you’re paid in U.S. dollars.
Visa Options for Foreigners: H-2A Visa Explained
What is the H-2A Visa?
The H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Visa allows U.S. employers to hire foreign nationals for seasonal farm work when there are not enough local workers available.
Key Benefits of the H-2A Visa:
- Legal entry to the U.S.
- Free visa processing (covered by employer)
- Free housing provided
- Transportation to and from the farm
- Work for up to 10 months with possibility of extension
- Paid in U.S. dollars weekly or biweekly
Who Qualifies?
- Must be 18+ years old
- Physically fit for manual labor
- Able to pass a background check
- No U.S. visa overstay history
How Much Can You Earn in Dollars?
Average Salaries by State (2025 Updated)
| State | Hourly Rate (USD) | Monthly Estimate (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| California | $17.50 | $2,800 – $3,200 |
| Washington | $18.00 | $2,900 – $3,300 |
| Florida | $14.50 | $2,200 – $2,600 |
| Texas | $13.75 | $2,000 – $2,400 |
| New York | $16.00 | $2,500 – $2,900 |
Many farms also offer overtime rates (1.5x regular hourly rate) and bonuses during peak seasons.
Real-Life Case Study: How Emmanuel Got to the U.S.
Emmanuel, a 28-year-old from Nigeria, was working odd jobs until he found a recruitment agency that helped him apply for an H-2A job picking blueberries in Georgia.
“The farm paid for my visa, flight, and housing. I was earning about $2,600/month in U.S. dollars and sending money back home.”
He later used his experience to apply for a permanent farm manager role and plans to transition to a Green Card.
Benefits of Fruit Picking Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
- Free accommodation (shared rooms or cabins)
- Free transport from home country to the farm
- Free visa processing by employers
- Legal, safe work environment
- Chance to earn up to $3,000/month
- Opportunities to return every harvest season
- Potential for permanent roles (in management or packing facilities)
Best U.S. States for Fruit Picking Jobs
1. California
- Fruits: Grapes, strawberries, oranges
- High demand for labor; wages often above minimum
2. Washington
- Fruits: Apples, cherries, blueberries
- Well-organized farms with long harvest season
3. Florida
- Fruits: Oranges, tomatoes, strawberries
- Early-season jobs; good for year-round work
4. Texas
- Fruits: Watermelons, cantaloupes
- Cheaper cost of living in farm towns
5. New York
- Fruits: Apples, grapes
- Family-owned farms often welcome repeat workers
How to Apply for Fruit Picking Jobs from Abroad
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prepare a simple resume (CV)
- Search for H-2A jobs online (use platforms below)
- Apply directly or through an agency
- Attend online or in-person interview
- Receive a job offer and visa application support
- Apply for H-2A visa at your nearest U.S. embassy
- Travel and begin work in the U.S.
Trusted Job Platforms:
- SeasonalJobs.dol.gov – U.S. Department of Labor official portal
- AgCareers.com
- Indeed.com (Search: “H-2A visa fruit picking”)
Required Documents
- Valid international passport
- Passport-sized photos
- Job offer letter
- DS-160 visa form confirmation
- Visa fee receipt (usually reimbursed)
- Proof of ties to home country (e.g., family, property)
Top Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship
- Stemilt Growers – Washington
- Driscoll’s – California
- Southern Valley Fruit & Vegetable – Georgia
- Wish Farms – Florida
- Mastronardi Produce – Texas
These companies regularly recruit hundreds of foreign workers and provide transportation, free housing, and full visa sponsorship.
Tips for Success
- Stay in good physical shape
- Learn basic English for instructions
- Arrive early to your assigned farm
- Follow hygiene and safety rules
- Respect other workers and local laws
Can You Bring Your Family?
Generally, H-2A visa holders cannot bring dependents. However, after gaining work experience, you may transition to roles that allow family reunification or apply for longer-term agricultural visas.
What Happens After the Season Ends?
- You return to your home country (mandatory)
- If employer is satisfied, they may rehire you next season
- Some may help you apply for long-term work options (Green Card, H-2B, etc.)
Conclusion: A Real Opportunity to Work in the USA Legally
If you’ve been dreaming of working abroad, this is one of the most realistic paths. Fruit picking jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship offer a legal route to earn in dollars, get U.S. work experience, and support your family back home.
Many Nigerians, Kenyans, Ghanaians, Indians, and Filipinos are already benefiting from this opportunity. With the right preparation and information, you can too.
✅ Take Action Now:
- Start applying online via official websites
- Avoid fake agents and scams
- Prepare your documents early
Your journey to the USA starts with one application. Good luck!
FAQs
1. Can I get a fruit picking job in the USA without experience?
Yes! These are entry-level jobs. As long as you’re healthy and willing to work, you qualify.
2. How do I know if the visa offer is real?
Only apply through official portals like SeasonalJobs.dol.gov or trusted recruiters. Never pay large fees upfront.
3. How long does it take to get the H-2A visa?
It usually takes 2 to 3 months from job offer to visa approval, depending on embassy wait times.