Agricultural jobs are one of the most common entry points for foreign workers seeking seasonal or long-term employment in Europe. Many applicants want to know whether accommodation and meals are included in these roles.
Are Accommodation and Meals Provided for Agricultural Workers?
In many European countries, yes—agricultural workers often receive accommodation and sometimes meals, especially in seasonal or farm-based roles.
This is because farms are usually located far from cities, and workers need a place to stay near the worksite.
However, the exact benefits depend on:
-
Country
-
Type of farm (livestock, fruit picking, greenhouse, vineyards)
-
Employer
-
Contract duration
In most cases, accommodation is provided, while meals may or may not be included.
Countries Where Accommodation Is Commonly Provided
Accommodation is frequently included in agricultural jobs in:
-
Poland
-
Germany
-
Czechia
-
Croatia
-
Slovenia
-
Slovakia
-
Lithuania & Latvia
-
Portugal (seasonal)
-
Italy (seasonal harvest work)
The type of housing varies. Workers may stay in:
-
Shared worker dormitories
-
Farmhouses converted into staff rooms
-
Portable cabins
-
Multi-bed rooms with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities
The quality depends on the employer and local regulations.
Are Meals Provided for Agricultural Workers?
Meals may be:
-
Fully provided
-
Partially subsidized
-
Not provided (workers cook their own food)
This depends on the farm:
-
Livestock farms sometimes offer meals because workers live on-site permanently.
-
Seasonal fruit picking farms usually provide kitchen access but not daily meals.
-
Greenhouse farms may offer discounted meal plans or grocery support.
When meals are not provided, farms usually ensure that:
-
There is a shared kitchen
-
Grocery shops are accessible or transport is arranged
-
Workers have enough break time to prepare food
Is Accommodation Free or Deducted?
This varies by country:
-
Free accommodation: Common in Germany traineeships, Croatia, Serbia, Hungary (seasonal)
-
Deducted from salary: Often in Poland, Czechia, Lithuania
Typical deduction range: €100–€300 per month, depending on location and housing type.
Employers must clearly mention this in the contract.
Do Agricultural Workers Get Heating, Utilities, and Internet?
Most farms provide basic utilities:
-
Heating
-
Electricity
-
Water
-
Shared kitchen
-
Bathroom facilities
Internet access may be available, but not guaranteed everywhere. Some farms provide Wi-Fi only in common areas.
Are Housing Conditions Regulated?
Yes. European labour laws require that worker accommodation meets minimum standards, including:
-
Safe and hygienic living space
-
Clean bathrooms
-
Heating and ventilation
-
Fire safety measures
-
Adequate sleeping arrangements
Inspections may be carried out by local labour departments, especially in seasonal work programs.
Do Foreign Workers Receive the Same Benefits as Local Workers?
Yes. Legally employed foreign agricultural workers receive the same housing and meal benefits as local workers, based on the contract and country regulations.
Equal treatment is required under European labour laws.
Conclusion
Most agricultural workers in Europe receive accommodation, and some farms also provide meals or meal subsidies. The exact benefits depend on the employer, country, and type of farm. Accommodation is a standard part of agricultural contracts, making these roles convenient for foreign workers seeking affordable living arrangements while working abroad.