Chef PR Pathway To Australia: A Comprehensive Guide.

If you’re a chef considering a move to Australia, you may have questions about the process.

How do you qualify for permanent residency as a chef in Australia?
What are the steps and requirements for a successful visa application?
What kind of qualifications and experience do you need?

And more. However, don’t worry, as this blog will provide you with detailed information on these questions and more. So, let’s get started!

Key Statistics on Job Opportunities for Chefs in Australia

As of May 2024, there were approximately 126,000 chefs employed in Australia, with employment growth of 5.1% over the past year.

Chefs are spread across different states, with the highest percentages in New South Wales (31.2%) and Victoria (28.3%).

In Victoria alone, there are projections for nearly 1,900 new chef positions by 2027 and over 10,600 by 2034

Key Sources:

So, the above stats are clearly demonstrating the high demand for chefs in Australia. And here I’m going to explain the process of how you can achieve PR as a chef.

Table of Contents

Chef PR Pathway to Australia: Step-by-Step Process

If you are an international student who wants to migrate to Australia, you have to meet certain requirements and follow the right procedure.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

To be eligible for the chef PR pathway as an international applicant, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Qualifications requirements

You should have qualifications like a Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery or equivalent. This certification ensures that your skills align with Australian industry standards.

2. Work experience requirements

A minimum of three years of full-time work experience in a relevant role is required. This experience should demonstrate your expertise in commercial cooking in roles such as a chef, sous chef, or head chef.

3. Language proficiency requirements

You must meet the language requirements, typically through an IELTS test with a score of 5 overall and no sub-score below. Other English proficiency tests like TOEFL or PTE may also be accepted, but IELTS is the most common.

4. Age requirements

You must be under 45 years old to apply for most PR pathways.

If you haven’t achieved the qualifications that meet the Australian standards, here are some of the options for you:

Step 2: Gain Qualifications

To become a chef in Australia, gaining the right qualifications is important. Here’s an overview of the key courses that can help you achieve PR in Australia:

1. Certificate III in Commercial Cookery

This is an entry-level qualification that provides a broad foundation in cooking techniques, food safety, and kitchen operations. It is designed to prepare students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to work in commercial kitchens.

After completing this course, graduates can work as commercial chefs, cooks, or assistant cooks in various hospitality settings.

2. Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery

This qualification is more advanced and builds on the skills learned in Certificate III. It focuses on developing higher-level cooking techniques and leadership skills.

After completing the course, graduates can work as senior chefs, sous chefs, or even kitchen managers in larger establishments.

3. Diploma of Hospitality Management

This diploma is beneficial for those interested in managing a kitchen or hospitality business. It focuses on business operations, customer service, and leadership skills.

Graduates can pursue roles such as hospitality managers, restaurant managers, or even start their own hospitality ventures.

Ensure your courses are CRICOS registered if you’re an international student.

Step 3: Obtain a Positive Skills Assessment

The first step after completing the qualifications is to undergo a skills assessment by a recognised authority such as:

This assessment validates that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards. Gather required documents, such as:

Proof of qualifications
Work experience
Language proficiency
Identity documents

Ensure all documents are certified and translated into English if necessary.

Step 3: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Once your skills are assessed, submit an EOI through the SkillSelect portal. In your EOI, highlight your skills, experience, education, and migration aspirations.

Choose your visa pathway wisely in your EOI. There are two visa options: the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) or the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190).

The Skilled Nominated Visa requires nomination by an Australian state or territory, which can provide additional points.

Step 4: Points-Based System

Australia uses a points-based system to select candidates for skilled visas. ou need at least 65 points to be eligible for most skilled visas. Points are given on the basis of the following criteria:

English: Higher English language scores can increase your points.
Age: Applicants under 45 years old receive more points.
Experience: Relevant work experience contributes significantly to your points score.
Education: Qualifications like a Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery or higher can add points.
Other Factors: Additional points may be awarded for factors like having a partner with skills or qualifications.

Note: Use the official points calculator to estimate your score based on your qualifications and experience.

Step 5: Invitation to Apply (ITA)

Once you have submitted your EOI and meet the points threshold, you may receive an Invitation to Apply for a visa. The Australian government invites applicants with the highest points scores to apply for a visa.

You usually have 60 days to prepare and submit your visa application after receiving an invitation to apply.

Step 6: Submit the Visa Application:

After receiving an invitation to apply, submit a visa application within the specified timeframe. This involves providing additional documentation, such as health checks, police certificates, and proof of funds.

Submit your visa application through the ImmiAccount website. Ensure your application is accurate and complete to avoid delays or rejections. It’s advisable to consult with a migration agent if you’re unsure about any part of the process.

Schedule an appointment with our experts at The Migration for submitting a successful visa application.

Step 7: Visa Grant and Permanent Residency

If your application is successful, you will be granted a skilled migration visa, typically Subclass 189 or Subclass 190.

You will receive notification of your visa approval. This letter outlines the conditions of your visa.

Understand your rights and responsibilities as a permanent resident, including access to healthcare, education, and social security.

Visa Options for Chefs in Australia

Australia offers several visa options for chefs who want to migrate and achieve PR. These visa options include:

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
Employer-Sponsored Visa (Subclass 482 and Subclass 186)

Here’s a detailed overview of the most relevant visas:

1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

The Skilled Independent Visa is a popular choice for chefs who wish to live and work anywhere in Australia without employer sponsorship.

It uses a points-based system, where applicants must score at least 65 points to be eligible. This visa leads directly to permanent residency.

2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

This visa requires nomination from an Australian state or territory. It also uses a points-based system but offers faster processing due to state sponsorship.

States often have specific skill shortages, which can provide more job opportunities for chefs. The Skilled Nominated Visa is another pathway to permanent residency.

3. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

This visa allows chefs to live and work in regional areas of Australia. After fulfilling specific work and residence requirements for three years, they can apply for permanent residency.

It offers extra points for working in regional areas. So, it is a suitable option for those willing to contribute to these communities.

4. Employer-Sponsored Visa (Subclass 482 and Subclass 186)

For chefs with a job offer from an Australian employer, the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) can provide immediate employment opportunities.

If the employer is willing to sponsor the chef for permanent residency, the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) can be a pathway to PR.

So, each of these visa options has its benefits and requirements, and choosing the right one depends on personal circumstances.

Things to Remember for International Chefs

Here are some points that you must keep in mind when applying for Australian PR:

CRICOS-approved courses

If you choose to study in Australia, ensure your course is CRICOS approved to be eligible for a visa. This is particularly important if you’re planning to apply for a student visa initially.

Visa options after completing studies

After completing your course, you can apply for a subclass 485 Graduate Visa or other relevant visas. This allows you to work in Australia while your PR application is processed.

Studying in regional areas

Studying in regional areas can provide additional points for your visa application. Many regional areas have a high demand for skilled workers, including chefs.

Job Opportunities for Chefs in Australia

The hospitality sector in Australia is large and growing. This means there are many restaurants, cafes, and hotels that need skilled chefs.

Moreover, chefs in Australia can earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience and location. About 58.4% of chefs work full-time hours, which is slightly lower than the national average.

Chefs can find employment in various industries across Australia:

Restaurants and cafes are the most common places for chefs to work, offering a wide range of cuisines.

Large hotels often have extensive culinary teams and provide opportunities for chefs to work in different roles.

Working on cruise ships can be an exciting option for chefs who enjoy travel.

Some chefs work as private chefs for families or events.

Final Thoughts

This blog has provided a detailed overview of Chef PR Pathway to Australia. By now you have learned the eligibility criteria, application process, job opportunities and additional tips to secure PR. So, what’s next?

Follow these steps and guidelines to submit your visa application. Contact us at The Migration for the professional help. Schedule your online appointment now and get ready to submit a flawless and decision ready visa application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can a chef get PR in Australia?

Yes, chefs can obtain Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia through various skilled migration pathways. However, they must meet the necessary qualifications, work experience, and skills assessment requirements.

Are chefs in demand in Australia?

Yes, there is a high demand for skilled chefs in Australia due to a growing hospitality industry. Chefs are recognised as essential workers, and many regions are actively seeking qualified culinary professionals.

Which is the fastest pathway to PR in Australia?

The fastest pathway to PR for chefs is typically through:

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190).

You can quickly get PR on these visas, especially if you have a positive skills assessment and sufficient points on the points-based system.

How do I come to Australia as a chef?

To come to Australia as a chef, you should complete a recognised cooking qualification (like Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery). Then obtain a positive skills assessment and apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485). After that, you can pursue permanent residency through the appropriate skilled migration visa.

Muhammad Azeem

I, Muhammad Azeem, am a seasoned content writer specializing in visa and immigration services. Passionate about making the immigration process smoother and more accessible, I combine thorough research with clear and engaging writing.

When not writing, I enjoy exploring new cultures and staying updated on the latest trends in immigration policy.