Australia is facing a major skills shortage in the hospitality sector, and chefs are among the most in-demand professions across the country. Whether it’s fine dining, multicultural cuisine, or regional restaurants, Australia’s booming food industry relies heavily on skilled chefs — which is why migration pathways for chefs have become stronger than ever.

If you’re a chef planning to build a career abroad, Australia offers excellent opportunities, competitive salaries, and clear pathways to Permanent Residency (PR).

Why Chefs Are in High Demand in Australia

1. Hospitality Skill Shortage

Australia’s restaurant and hotel industry has been expanding rapidly, but the local supply of chefs hasn’t kept up. The occupation is listed on:

  • Medium and Long-Term Skilled Occupation List (MLTSSL)
  • State Skilled Occupation Lists
     This makes chefs eligible for multiple visa and PR programs.

2. Post-pandemic Worker Gaps

Many hospitality workers left the industry during COVID-19, creating a long-term shortage that Australia is still trying to fill.

3. Growing Food & Tourism Industry

Australia’s multicultural food scene, tourist demand, and new restaurant openings continue to rise — increasing the demand for trained chefs.

4. Regional Australia Needs More Chefs

Hotels, resorts, and restaurants in regional areas struggle to find skilled staff, giving chefs major opportunities for employer sponsorship and state nomination.

🇦🇺 Migration Options for Chefs

Here are the most popular and high-success visa options:

1. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – Subclass 482

Fastest way for chefs to get a job and move to Australia.

Benefits:

  • Work full-time for an approved employer
  • Pathway to PR through the Subclass 186 after 2–3 years
  • High demand means easier sponsorship opportunities

Best for: Chefs with job offers from Australian employers.

2. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) – Subclass 186 (Direct Entry or TRT)

A direct PR option if:

  • You have 3+ years of experience, and
  • You meet skills assessment and English requirements

Result: Permanent Residency from day one.

3. Skilled Independent Visa – Subclass 189

A points-based visa with no sponsorship needed, but competitive.

You must:

  • Pass the skills assessment (TRA)
  • Have high points (usually 65+ but depends on invitation rounds)

4. Skilled Nominated Visa – Subclass 190

Many states list “Chef” as a priority occupation.

Benefits:

  • State nomination gives 5 extra points
  • Direct PR
  • Higher invitation chances compared to 189

States that often nominate chefs:
 NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, WA, TAS, ACT

5. Skilled Work Regional Visa – Subclass 491

A strong option due to high demand in regional areas.

Benefits:

  • 15 additional points for regional sponsorship
  • Easier invitations
  • Clear PR pathway via Subclass 191

🧾 PR Pathways for Chefs in Australia

Chefs can get PR through several pathways:

✔ Employer-Sponsored PR (ENS 186)

If you work 2–3 years on a 482 visa and your employer nominates you.

✔ Skilled Migration PR (189, 190, 491 → 191)

After your skills assessment, you can apply for points-tested visas.

✔ Direct Entry 186 (Immediate PR)

For highly experienced chefs with a valid skills assessment.

💰 Salary & Career Benefits for Chefs in Australia

  • Average salary: AUD 65,000 – 85,000
  • Head chefs: AUD 90,000 – 120,000+
  • Overtime & weekend pay benefits
  • Pathway to restaurant management roles

Conclusion

Australia’s demand for skilled chefs makes it one of the most promising career and PR pathways in 2025.

With multiple visa options, clear migration routes, and strong employer demand, chefs have excellent PR opportunities.

Choosing the right pathway depends on your skills, experience, and long-term goals.

Need help deciding the best PR pathway for you? Consult the experts at Aives Australia – Registered Migration Agents with 30+ years of experience guiding skilled professionals to their Australian dream.