Discover high-demand fruit picking jobs in Canada with free housing for Nigerians. Learn requirements, salaries, application steps, and trusted hiring companies. For many young Nigerians looking for better opportunities abroad, Canada remains one of the most attractive destinations. The country is peaceful, economically stable, offers fair wages, and genuinely welcomes foreigners especially in industries struggling with labour shortages. One of such industries is agriculture, particularly fruit picking jobs.

Fruit picking jobs may not be glamorous, but they are one of the easiest, fastest, and most affordable pathways for Nigerians who want to work and live in Canada legally. These jobs come with incredible benefits such as:

• Free or subsidized accommodation

• Visa sponsorship through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

• Stable monthly income

• Low entry requirements

• Opportunity for long-term immigration pathways

Many Nigerians working in Canadian orchards and fruit farms have shared stories of how these jobs helped them build financial stability, send money home, support their families, and even transition into permanent residency over time.

This detailed guide breaks down everything you need to know about securing fruit picking jobs in Canada with free housing from requirements to how to apply, expected salary, fake job scam alerts, and lists of genuine hiring companies.

Check Also: Easiest Jobs in Canada for Africans with Visa Sponsorship

Understanding Fruit Picking Jobs in Canada

Fruit picking involves working on farms or orchards to harvest fruits during their growing season. It is part of the backbone of Canada’s agricultural industry and one of the most common jobs offered to foreigners.

Common Fruits Picked in Canada

Nigerians working in Canada often pick:

• Apples

• Blueberries

• Strawberries

• Raspberries

• Cherries

• Grapes

• Peaches

• Plums

• Pears

These fruits are harvested in different provinces throughout the year, ensuring consistent job availability.

Why Canada Needs Foreign Fruit Pickers

Canada has a massive fruit industry but not enough local workers to meet demand because:

• Many young Canadians prefer office jobs

• Fruit farms are located in rural areas

• Labour shortages have increased over the years

• The work is physically demanding

• Rising immigration targets encourage foreign labour

This makes fruit picking a perfect opportunity for Nigerians seeking overseas employment.

Benefits of Fruit Picking Jobs for Nigerians

Fruit picking jobs in Canada come with benefits that make relocation easier, affordable, and attractive.

1. Free or Subsidized Accommodation

Most farms provide:

• Free furnished rooms or shared housing

• Free transportation to and from the farm

• Low-cost utilities

• On-site kitchens and laundry

This reduces living expenses drastically.

2. Visa Sponsorship

Employers apply for an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) and issue an official job offer, making your work permit application straightforward.

3. No Experience or Degree Required

Fruit picking is one of the few legal jobs abroad where you don’t need:

• University degree

• IELTS

• Farm experience

Basic English and physical fitness are enough.

4. High Salaries Compared to Nigeria

Fruit pickers earn:

Overtime increases earnings significantly.

5. Safe Working Conditions

Canada enforces strict labour laws, ensuring:

• Safe work environments

• Proper protective equipment

• Overtime payments

• Health and safety inspections

6. Pathway to Long-Term Opportunities

Although fruit picking is seasonal, workers may:

• Extend contracts

• Transition to full-time roles

• Apply for permanent residency through provincial programs

• Bring their spouse and children after settling

Who Can Apply for Fruit Picking Jobs in Canada?

Fruit picking jobs are open to many Nigerians, especially those who want a simple and affordable migration pathway.

Requirements:

You must be:

• 18 years or older

• Physically fit

• Able to speak basic English

• Willing to work outdoors

• Passport-ready

Documents needed:

• International passport

• Updated CV

• Passport photograph

• Proof of work experience (optional)

• Medical tests (later in the process)

This makes it one of the most accessible foreign job opportunities for Nigerians.

Best Provinces in Canada for Fruit Picking Jobs

Different provinces harvest fruits at different times of the year.

1. British Columbia (BC)

Known for:

• Cherries

• Apples

• Blueberries

• Grapes

Home to some of the highest-paying orchards.

2. Ontario

Famous for:

• Apples

• Peaches

• Grapes

• Strawberries

The Niagara region and Southern Ontario have huge demand.

3. Quebec

Great for:

• Berries

• Apples

• Greenhouse fruits

French language is helpful but not required.

4. Nova Scotia

Known for:

• Apples

• Blueberries

5. Manitoba & Saskatchewan

Seasonal berry farms with fewer workers—higher chances of getting hired.

Daily Responsibilities of a Fruit Picker

Fruit picking involves tasks such as:

• Harvesting ripe fruits

• Sorting and packing fruits

• Climbing ladders safely

• Using simple farm tools

• Loading boxes into trucks

• Cleaning work areas

Although physically demanding, employers provide training for beginners.

Salary Breakdown for Fruit Picking Workers

Your salary depends on:

• Province

• Type of fruit

• Employer

• Experience

• Season

• Overtime hours

Most fruit pickers work:

• 8–10 hours daily

• 5–6 days weekly

Average Earnings

If working 40 hours/week at $16/hr:

• Weekly pay: $640

• Monthly pay: $2,560

• Overtime income can add $300–$600 weekly during peak seasons

With free accommodation, workers save more.

How to Apply for Fruit Picking Jobs in Canada (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Create a Canadian-style Resume

A good farm worker resume includes:

• Contact information

• Physical fitness skills

• Experience (even informal ones)

• Willingness to relocate

• Availability dates

Step 2: Apply Through Government-Approved Websites

Genuine platforms include:

• JobBank.gc.ca

• AgriRecruit

• WorkBC

• Indeed Canada

• Canada Agri-Food Portal

These platforms list verified employers.

Step 3: Attend an Online Interview

Interviews are simple. Sample questions:

• “Are you comfortable working outdoors?”

• “Can you lift up to 15–20kg?”

• “Why do you want to work in Canada?”

Step 4: Employer Submits LMIA

This is a legal requirement before hiring foreign workers.

Step 5: Apply for a Work Permit

Submit:

• LMIA letter

• Job offer

• Passport

• Application fee

• Medicals

• Biometrics

Step 6: Receive Work Permit Approval

Your work permit allows you to legally enter and work in Canada.

Step 7: Travel and Begin Work

Employers may assist with:

• Airport pick-up

• Accommodation arrangements

• Orientation and training

Trusted Canadian Employers That Hire Nigerians

Below are some employers known for hiring international fruit pickers:

1. Jealous Fruits (British Columbia)

Specializes in cherry picking.

2. BC Tree Fruits

Offers apple and cherry picking jobs.

3. Sun-Brite Foods

Greenhouse and vegetable harvesting.

4. Ferme Toba (Quebec)

Seasonal berry farms.

5. Pomerleau Orchards

Large apple farms with free housing.

6. Ontario Produce Holdings

Fruit packing and sorting jobs.

7. Atlantic Blueberry Company

Blueberry harvesting in Nova Scotia.

All are legitimate Canadian employers listed on approved platforms.

Cost of Moving to Canada as a Fruit Picker

Even with visa sponsorship, you still need to pay for:

Employers handle:

• LMIA cost

• Job offer processing

• Housing

• Initial training

How Nigerians Can Avoid Fake Job Scams

Sadly, many Nigerians fall victim to fake “Canada fruit picking agents.”

Red Flags to Avoid

• Agents demanding payment for job offers

• Employers offering unrealistic salaries

• No interview required

• Job offer not verifiable on Canadian job portals

• Whatsapp-only “recruiters”

How to Stay Safe

• Apply only on official websites

• Cross-check employer on JobBank

• Never pay for LMIA (illegal in Canada)

• Verify company registration online

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Hired

• Apply early (December – March for summer jobs)
• Use a Canadian format CV
• Show physical fitness
• Apply to multiple employers
• Be responsive and polite
• Emphasize your willingness to relocate

Many Nigerians get hired simply because they apply consistently.

Opportunities After Fruit Picking Jobs

Fruit picking is just the beginning. After gaining experience, Nigerians can:

1. Apply for Permanent Residency

Through:

• Agri-Food Pilot

• Regional Immigration Programs

• Provincial Nominee Programs

2. Transition into Full-Time Farm Work

Greenhouses and vineyards often offer long-term contracts.

3. Bring Family Members

Once stable, workers can apply for:

• Spousal open work permits

• Study permits for children

4. Move Into Related Careers

Such as:

• Farm machine operator

• Packaging supervisor

• Greenhouse technician

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do fruit picking jobs in Canada really offer free housing?

Yes. Most seasonal employers provide free or discounted accommodation to reduce worker expenses.

2. Do I need IELTS to work as a fruit picker?

No, but basic English is required.

3. Can I move with my family?

Not immediately for seasonal jobs. But long-term pathways exist after gaining Canadian experience.

4. How long is a fruit picking contract?

Typically 3–6 months depending on the season.

5. Is fruit picking difficult?

It is physically demanding but manageable with proper training.

Conclusion

Fruit picking jobs in Canada provide Nigerians with one of the most accessible and realistic pathways to secure employment abroad. With free housing, visa sponsorship, good wages, and simple requirements, these jobs make relocation affordable for ordinary Nigerians who want a fresh start.

If you are hardworking, determined, and ready to explore new opportunities, Canada’s agricultural sector may be the stepping stone you’ve been waiting for.

This article has given you:

• A complete overview of fruit picking jobs

• Salary expectations

• Full application steps

• Trusted employers

• Safety tips

• Long-term opportunities

Whether you are a first-time job seeker or someone hoping to relocate legally, this pathway remains one of the easiest and most reliable for Nigerians.