Occupation guide
Migrate as a Chef
Qualified chefs are in surprisingly high demand for migration. Hospitality workforce shortages in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the UK have put chefs on skilled occupation lists with real visa pathways.
Demand for chefs
Post-pandemic hospitality recovery has created acute chef shortages worldwide. Australia, New Zealand, and Canada have added chefs and cooks to their priority occupation lists.
Best countries for chefs
Real visa routes, real demand, local pay.
Australia
- Visa route
- Employer Sponsored (482) / Regional Visa
- Salary range
- AUD $55,000 to $75,000
- Why go
- Chef is on the skilled occupation list. Regional Australia has the strongest demand with additional visa benefits.
Canada
- Visa route
- LMIA Work Permit / Provincial Nominee
- Salary range
- CAD $35,000 to $55,000
- Why go
- Cook and chef roles qualify for LMIA work permits. Some provinces have hospitality-specific immigration streams.
New Zealand
- Visa route
- Accredited Employer Work Visa
- Salary range
- NZD $50,000 to $65,000
- Why go
- Chef is on the Green List for direct residency. Tourism recovery is driving strong hospitality demand.
United Kingdom
- Visa route
- Skilled Worker Visa
- Salary range
- £25,000 to £38,000
- Why go
- Chef roles qualify for the Skilled Worker visa. Many restaurants and hotel chains sponsor international chefs.
What you need
- Formal culinary qualification (diploma or certificate)
- 3+ years commercial kitchen experience
- English proficiency (IELTS 5.0-6.0)
- Food safety certification
- References from commercial employers
Exams and assessments
- Trade certificate or culinary diploma
- TRA skills assessment (Australia)
- IELTS General (5.0+ for most programs)
- Food hygiene/safety certification
- City & Guilds or equivalent (UK)
FAQs
Can I migrate as a chef without formal qualifications?
Formal qualifications significantly improve your chances, but extensive experience (5+ years) in commercial kitchens can sometimes substitute. Australia's TRA assessment considers both qualifications and experience.
What type of chef experience counts?
Commercial kitchen experience in restaurants, hotels, or catering companies counts. Home cooking or informal food businesses typically don't qualify. You'll need references from formal employers.
Is the salary enough to live comfortably?
Chef salaries are modest compared to other skilled occupations, but they've been rising due to shortages. In Australia, experienced chefs in regional areas can earn AUD $65K+ with lower living costs. Employer sponsorship often includes accommodation support.
Which cuisine specialties are most in demand?
General commercial cookery skills are most valued for immigration. Specialty cuisine experience is a bonus but not required. Asian, Mediterranean, and pastry chef skills are particularly sought after in many markets.
This guide is general information, not legal advice, and rules change often. Always confirm the current requirements on the official government website for your destination. How we research & source our guides.
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