Introduction
Australia's hospitality sector has a persistent demand for skilled chefs, making employer-sponsored visas a key pathway for chefs seeking to work and live in Australia. This 2025 guide explains how chefs can apply for employer-sponsored visas under the latest migration legislation.
Relevant Visa Options for Chefs
Skills in Demand (SID) Visa (Subclass 482)
The SID visa replaces the old TSS 482 visa and now includes streamlined pathways for chefs. It has three streams:
- Core Skills Pathway (common for chefs)
- Specialist Skills Pathway
- Essential Skills Pathway
Chefs usually apply under the Core Skills Pathway, which requires at least one year of relevant work experience and an occupation on the new Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186)
A permanent visa that chefs can apply for after working for their sponsoring employer for at least two years under the SID visa. This transition pathway is easier and faster under the new rules effective 2025.
Regional Visas (Subclass 494/191)
For chefs willing to work in regional areas, state or territory-sponsored visas offer additional points and pathways to permanent residency.
Core Eligibility Criteria for Chef Applicants
- Occupation on CSOL: Chef is listed on the 2025 Core Skills Occupation List, making you eligible for employer sponsorship.
- Skills Assessment: You must pass a skills assessment from an approved authority such as VETASSESS or TRA, verifying your qualifications and work experience.
- Work Experience: At least one year of full-time relevant experience as a chef is required.
- English Language: Competent English level is mandatory (minimum IELTS 5.0 in each band or equivalent).
- Health and Character: Meet Australia’s health and character requirements.
Skills Assessment for Chefs
Chefs can engage the following assessing bodies:
- VETASSESS: Often used for trade and hospitality occupations, requires evidence of qualifications and work experience.
- Trade Recognition Australia (TRA): Assesses trade skills through documentation and possibly practical tests.
Successful assessment confirms you meet Australian occupational standards for chefs.
Employer Requirements for Sponsoring Chefs
Employers wishing to sponsor chefs for a visa must meet these key conditions:
- Be a genuine, legally operating business registered in Australia.
- Demonstrate a genuine labour shortage for chefs (cannot find local workers with required skills).
- Offer terms and conditions (wages, employment rights) that comply with Australian laws.
- Pay the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy.
- Provide evidence of the labour market testing conducted prior to nomination.
Application Process
- Employer applies for and gains approval to be a Standard Business Sponsor.
- Employer nominates the position of chef and the applicant.
- Applicant lodges a visa application with the required documentation.
Applicants and employers should seek professional advice to ensure documentation is complete and timely.
What You Need to Prepare
- Passport and identity documents
- Qualifications and transcripts in culinary arts or related fields
- Detailed employment references verifying duties and work hours
- Evidence of skills assessment outcome
- English language test results
- Police clearance certificates
- Health examination results
Rights and Benefits for Sponsored Chefs
- Ability to live and work in Australia for up to 4 years (SID visa validity)
- Eligible to apply for permanent residency after two years under the new pathway
- Access to family sponsorship, allowing spouses full work and study rights
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my sponsoring employer?
Yes, under the new rules, you have up to 180 days after leaving employment to find a new sponsor.
Do I need to have worked in Australia before sponsorship?
No prior Australian work experience is required to apply.
How long does the transition to permanent residency take?
After working for your sponsoring employer for two years, you may apply for the subclass 186 visa.
Are there regional sponsorship options for chefs?
Yes, several states and territories have regional nomination programs that provide additional opportunities.
Conclusion
For chefs seeking to live and work in Australia, the updated employer-sponsored visa pathways in 2025 provide clear routes with reduced work experience requirements and enhanced pathways to permanent residency. Preparing a thorough skills assessment and partnering with a qualified Australian employer are crucial to success.
Ready to take the next step? Contact First Migration Service for expert advice tailored to chefs' migration needs. Our team offers specialised support in employer sponsorship, skills assessment, and migration pathways.
Book your consultation today and start your Australian career journey with confidence.