Imagine starting your day in the fresh Canadian countryside, surrounded by endless fields of plump, blue blueberries glistening in the sun. In 2026, blueberry picking jobs in Canada offer not only the chance to earn a competitive wage of CAD $15–20 per hour but also visa sponsorship, accommodation support, and the potential to build a future in one of the world’s most welcoming countries. For foreigners seeking their first Canadian work experience, this is more than a seasonal job; it’s the gateway to a life-changing adventure.
Read Also: Fruit Picking Jobs in Canada with Work Visa
Why Blueberry Picking Jobs Are in High Demand
Blueberries are a national treasure in Canada. They are widely grown, consumed domestically, and exported to multiple countries.
- In recent years, nearly 200,000 acres of land have been dedicated to blueberry cultivation.
- British Columbia (BC) is the leader, producing the vast majority of cultivated blueberries.
- Quebec dominates wild blueberry production, accounting for the majority of acreage.
- Canada is the world’s largest exporter of frozen blueberries, supplying mainly to the U.S., Europe, and increasingly to Asia.
This heavy focus on blueberry farming means thousands of workers are required every season, making it a top job opportunity for foreigners seeking visa-sponsored farm roles.
Details of Blueberry Picking Jobs in Canada
Key Points
- Job Title: Fruit Picker / Berry Picker
- Location: Across Canada (mainly British Columbia, Quebec, and Ontario)
- Industry: Agriculture / Farm Work
- Job Type: Full-time Seasonal
- Working Hours: 28–40 hours per week (often with overtime available)
- Experience Required: Preferred but not mandatory
- Knowledge Required: Basic farming knowledge
- Salary: CAD $16–22 per hour (subject to provincial minimum wage increases)
- Age Limit: 18+ (19 in some provinces)
These jobs are entry-level friendly and ideal for international applicants with little formal education or experience.
Requirements for Blueberry Picking Jobs in Canada
Eligibility criteria are simple and beginner-friendly:
- Must be at least 18 years old (19 in certain provinces).
- No strict education requirement; a high school diploma may be preferred.
- Experience in farming or fruit picking is an advantage but not required.
- Must have a clean criminal record.
- Must be medically fit for demanding physical work.
- Must meet all Canadian immigration rules to qualify for visa sponsorship.
Employers often provide orientation and on-the-job training, making it accessible for first-time workers.
Benefits of Blueberry Picking Jobs
Foreign workers enjoy many perks while working as fruit pickers in Canada:
- Visa sponsorship (typically through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program).
- Free or subsidized accommodation near farms.
- Some employers provide meals or transportation support.
- Attractive hourly pay, often with overtime rates.
- Medical insurance typically covering workplace injuries.
- After gaining Canadian work experience, workers may explore pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) through federal or provincial immigration programs.
- Opportunity to experience life in Canada and build a foundation for future opportunities.
Job Responsibilities of a Blueberry Picker
Working on a blueberry farm requires physical effort and attention to detail. Common duties include:
- Harvesting blueberries from fields.
- Sorting damaged or overripe berries from the good ones.
- Packing blueberries into cartons and labeling them.
- Performing basic orchard maintenance tasks like weeding.
- Carrying and moving filled containers and baskets.
- Loading fruit cartons into trucks carefully to avoid damage.
- Working in cold storage rooms or freezers for processing.
These tasks are straightforward but require stamina and consistency.
Average Salary of a Blueberry Picker in Canada
Salaries vary based on province, employer, and work hours. On average:
- CAD $16–22 per hour (entry-level, reflecting 2026 outlook).
- With consistent seasonal work, annual earnings can be competitive, especially when combined with provided benefits like accommodation.
Blueberry Growing Regions and Famous Farms
Blueberries are grown across Canada, but the main hubs are:
- British Columbia (BC): Leader in cultivated blueberry production.
- Quebec: Largest wild blueberry producer.
- Ontario: Significant commercial farms.
Many family-owned and commercial farms across these provinces hire international workers each season through established visa sponsorship streams.
Famous Fruit Picking Jobs in Canada
While blueberries are the highlight, Canada offers many fruit-picking opportunities, such as:
- Apples
- Cherries
- Strawberries
- Peaches
- Grapes
Thanks to varying harvest seasons, workers can often find sequential employment in different regions
Visa Requirements
Valid Job Offer from a Canadian Employer
- Must be from a farm registered to hire foreign workers under Canadian programs.
- Job offer should clearly state the position, pay rate, working hours, and employment duration.
Employer Compliance and Approval
- The employer must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) showing that hiring a foreign worker is necessary.
- LMIA approval is mandatory for most seasonal agricultural jobs.
Work Permit Application
- Workers must apply for a Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) work permit or Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) permit.
- Application is submitted online or through the Canadian visa office in the home country.
Valid Passport
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay.
Medical Examination
- Some positions may require a medical check to ensure fitness for agricultural work.
Police Clearance Certificate
- Proof of a clean criminal record from the applicant’s home country.
Employment Contract
- A signed contract detailing job responsibilities, salary, hours, and benefits is required.
Proof of Financial Means
- Evidence of sufficient funds for initial travel and stay, if not covered by the employer.
Accommodation Arrangements
- Many farms provide housing; proof of accommodation may be required.
Language Requirements (if applicable)
- Basic English or French comprehension may be needed for safety instructions and communication.
Visa Application Fees
- Payment of applicable fees for work permit and processing.
Compliance with Canadian Immigration and Labor Laws
- Workers must adhere to visa conditions, follow employment rules, and complete work as agreed in the contract.
How to Apply for Blueberry Picking Jobs in Canada
The application process is simple and mostly online:
- Visit official job portals like Job Bank (JobBank.gc.ca), Indeed.ca, or agricultural association websites.
- Use keywords like “Blueberry Picker Visa Sponsorship” or “Seasonal Agricultural Worker.”
- Select your preferred province.
- Prepare a simple resume highlighting any physical work experience and reliability.
- Submit your application. Reputable employers and government programs will guide you through the proper visa sponsorship process, which is typically facilitated through licensed recruiters or directly with farm associations.
Conclusion
Blueberry picking represents one of the most accessible and strategically valuable entry points into the Canadian workforce for international applicants. The 2026 season offers more than just seasonal income; it provides a structured pathway complete with visa sponsorship, essential benefits, and a tangible route toward permanent residency. By targeting key growing regions and preparing a straightforward application, motivated workers can harvest not just fruit but also a foundation for a lasting future in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary for a blueberry picker in Canada?
The average entry-level wage ranges from CAD $15 to $20 per hour. Annual full-time earnings typically fall between CAD $27,700 and $30,200.
Do I need any experience or a degree?
No formal degree is required. While prior farming experience is helpful, it is not mandatory for most entry-level picking roles. Employers typically provide on-the-job training.
