Chefs can migrate to Australia through employer-sponsored visas such as the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) visa, the permanent subclass 186 pathway, or points-tested general skilled migration (subclasses 189, 190 and 491). Chefs are listed on Australia’s skilled occupation lists under ANZSCO 351311, which makes them a strong candidate for hospitality employers dealing with persistent skill shortages.
Why Australian venues sponsor chefs
Restaurants, cafes and catering businesses across Australia struggle to fill qualified chef roles. Sponsorship lets an employer nominate an overseas chef for a visa when they cannot fill the role locally. For chefs, sponsorship offers a clear employer-backed pathway with a route to permanent residence.
The main chef visa pathways
Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482)
An employer sponsors the chef for up to four years in their nominated role. The employer must be an approved standard business sponsor and meet labour market testing and salary rules.
Permanent residence through the subclass 186
The Employer Nomination Scheme lets sponsored chefs move to permanent residence. On the temporary residence transition stream, chefs generally apply after two years of sponsored work with their employer.
General skilled migration (subclasses 189, 190 and 491)
Points-tested visas for chefs with strong skills assessments, English and work experience who want to live and work anywhere in Australia, or in a nominated regional area.
What chefs must be paid under sponsorship
From 1 July 2026, employers sponsoring workers on the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) Core Skills stream and 186 employer visas must pay at least AUD 79,423 a year under the Core Skills Income Threshold. The threshold is indexed every 1 July. Source: Department of Home Affairs.
How the application process works
- A free consultation to assess your experience, qualifications and pathway options.
- A written fee quote and a tailored document checklist.
- Skills assessment and English test preparation where required.
- Lodgement of the nomination and visa application.
- Ongoing support until a decision is received.
Frequently asked questions about chef visas
Do chefs need a skills assessment for every visa?
Requirements vary by visa and by nationality. Skills assessments, English test results and employment references are commonly required, and we provide a tailored checklist at your strategy session.
Can chefs apply without a job offer?
Employer-sponsored visas require an employer. Points-tested general skilled migration does not, but it is competitive and depends on your points score. We assess both routes with you honestly.
How long does a chef visa take?
Processing times vary with the visa type and Department of Home Affairs workloads, from weeks to well over a year. We give you a realistic timeline at your consultation.
Talk to a chef migration specialist
Australia Migration Collective helps chefs, hospitality managers and the businesses that employ them. Explore our visa services, see how we help employers, or book a free 15-minute consultation to map your pathway.
