To enter an EU country as a seasonal worker, certain requirements must be met and the necessary documents submitted. The primary document is an employment contract or a binding job offer from an employer in the EU country where the worker will reside. The contract must specify the type of work, its duration, salary, working hours, and the amount of paid leave. A valid passport or other travel document, health insurance, and proof of accommodation for the duration of the stay are also required.
An application must be submitted to the competent authorities of the EU country where the individual intends to work, requesting a visa, work permit, or residence permit. This application is usually submitted while the worker is still outside the EU. A decision regarding the application is typically issued within 90 days.
As a seasonal worker, the third-country national is entitled to live and work only in the country that issued the visa or the permit. Bringing family members to reside in the host country is not allowed. However, the worker is entitled to the same working conditions, freedom of association, tax benefits, and access to certain public services as the nationals of the host country.