Chef jobs in UK with visa sponsorship are a fantastic opportunity for culinary professionals looking to build an international career while sharing their passion for food. These roles typically offer a salary of around £24,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the type of establishment.
Most positions require previous experience in professional kitchens, strong culinary skills, and the ability to work under pressure, though some employers provide training for talented and motivated chefs. The work is primarily on-site and physical, involving food preparation, cooking, menu planning, and maintaining high hygiene standards.
As a Chef in the UK, you’ll have the chance to work in diverse culinary settings, develop your skills, and create memorable dining experiences for guests from around the world.
Details of Chef Jobs:
- Country: United Kingdom (UK)
- Job type: Chef
- Experience Required: No
- Knowledge Required: No
- Age Limit: Minimum 22 Years
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes
Requirement:
You must fulfill particular job and visa requirements established by UK immigration and employer regulations in order to work as a chef in the UK under sponsorship. A comprehensive list of the most typical needs is provided below:
- Verified Job Offer: Applicants must have an offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor skilled workers (SOC code 5434 for chefs).
- Professional Experience: At least 2–3 years working as a chef in a professional kitchen. Experience leading a team or cooking international cuisine is a plus.
- Preferred Qualifications: Culinary Arts diploma, Hospitality Management certificate, or relevant food safety/kitchen hygiene certifications.
- English Language Skills: Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English. Most applicants need a Secure English Language Test (SELT), such as IELTS B1.
- Salary Requirements: The position must pay £10.75 per hour or £26,200 per year (some exceptions for Shortage Occupation List roles).
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Issued by the employer with details of job title, responsibilities, salary, and start date.
- Health & Character Checks: Valid passport, police clearance certificate, and TB test certificate if applying from listed countries.
Benefits of Jobs:
There are several benefits to working as a chef in the UK, particularly for foreign professionals looking for visa sponsorship. Here are a few main advantages:
- Visa Sponsorship Provided: Secure a legally sponsored work visa, enabling you to live and work in the UK with full compliance and support from your employer.
- Competitive Salary Packages: Earn a salary ranging from £17 to £26 per hour, depending on your experience and expertise in the culinary field.
- Career Growth Opportunities: Access structured career progression, professional training, and opportunities to specialize in various cuisines or managerial roles.
- International Work Experience: Gain exposure to diverse culinary practices and work in renowned UK hotels, enhancing your global hospitality skills.
- Relocation Support: Receive assistance with moving to the UK, including guidance on settling in and adapting to a new environment.
Visa Requirements:
You normally need to fulfill the requirements for the UK Skilled Worker Visa in order to operate lawfully as a chef in the UK with sponsorship. Below is a summary of the essential requirements:
- Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor: Applicants must have a verified job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor skilled workers. The role should fall under the Skilled Occupations List (SOC code 5434 for chefs).
- Minimum Salary: The position must pay at least £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour. Salaries may be higher depending on experience and region. Special considerations apply for younger applicants or roles on the Shortage Occupation List.
- English Language Proficiency: Candidates must demonstrate English proficiency by passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT). Exemptions apply for degrees taught in English or applicants from English-speaking countries.
- Financial Requirements: Applicants must show a minimum of £1,270 in savings, unless the employer covers living expenses as stated in the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Must be issued by the employer and include job title, salary, location, applicant details, and employment start date.
- Visa Application & Fees: Apply online for a Skilled Worker Visa. Application fees range from £719–£1,500 depending on circumstances. The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of approximately £624 per year also applies.
Top Types of Chef Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship:
Head Chef Jobs in UK:
Head Chef Jobs in UK are among the most rewarding positions in the hospitality industry. As a Head Chef, you will be responsible for leading kitchen operations, designing menus, managing staff, and maintaining food quality standards. Salaries usually range from £32,000 to £55,000 per year, depending on the size and type of establishment. Employers often look for candidates with strong leadership skills, creativity, and proven culinary experience. With opportunities in hotels, fine-dining restaurants, resorts, and catering companies, Head Chef jobs in the UK offer excellent career growth, job security, and a chance to showcase your culinary talent.
Sous Chef Jobs in UK:
Sous Chef Jobs in UK provide the perfect opportunity to work closely with Head Chefs while managing daily kitchen activities. A Sous Chef plays a key role in supervising staff, ensuring smooth service, handling food preparation, and maintaining health and safety standards. The average salary for a Sous Chef in the UK ranges between £26,000 and £40,000 annually, with higher pay in luxury hotels and fine-dining establishments. Many employers also provide training, career progression, and staff benefits. This role is ideal for chefs aiming to build leadership experience and step up into a Head Chef position in the future.
Pastry Chef Jobs in UK:
Pastry Chef Jobs in UK are perfect for creative professionals specializing in desserts, cakes, bread, and pastries. As a Pastry Chef, you’ll have the opportunity to work in bakeries, hotels, high-end restaurants, and patisseries, crafting delicious creations that delight customers. Salaries typically range from £22,000 to £35,000 per year, with senior pastry chefs earning more in luxury venues. Employers value creativity, precision, and attention to detail, often offering professional development and opportunities to showcase unique dessert menus. For those passionate about baking and presentation, Pastry Chef jobs in the UK offer a sweet career path.
Commis Chef Jobs in UK:
Commis Chef Jobs in UK are excellent entry-level opportunities for those starting their culinary journey. A Commis Chef supports senior chefs with basic food preparation, kitchen organization, and maintaining cleanliness. Salaries usually range between £18,000 and £24,000 annually, making it a great first step into the hospitality industry. Many hotels, restaurants, and catering companies offer on-the-job training and career progression opportunities for Commis Chefs. With dedication and experience, this role can quickly lead to promotions into Chef de Partie, Sous Chef, and eventually Head Chef positions. It’s the ideal starting point for anyone passionate about building a successful career in the UK’s culinary scene.
Read Also: Cheese Packer Jobs in UK with Work Visa
Average Salary:
The National Careers Service reports that the average chef in the UK makes about £24,000 ($33,000) annually. It fluctuates based on your expertise and culinary prowess.
Who can apply?
Anyone can apply for a chef job in the UK; all you have to do is fulfill the employer’s standards, which vary depending on the company and include things like experience and skill sets.
Conclusion:
For skilled chefs around the world, 2025 chef jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship present a transformative opportunity. The UK is actively seeking international culinary talent due to its high demand for qualified chefs, streamlined immigration procedures, and attractive salary packages.
Now is the ideal moment to take advantage of this chance if you have a strong desire to cook, professional experience, and fluency in English. You’ll not only get exposure abroad, but you’ll also open the door to a safe and rewarding career in one of the most exciting food businesses in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need formal education to become a chef in the UK?
Not always. Many businesses emphasize practical kitchen experience, cooking methods, and leadership in kitchen environments, even though some favor applicants with culinary credentials or hospitality training.
Is previous work experience mandatory?
Indeed. Professional kitchen experience of at least two to three years is typically necessary, particularly for senior positions. It is advantageous to have prior experience managing a team, cooking in large quantities, or handling international cuisine.
Do chef jobs in the UK offer visa sponsorship?
Yes, many UK hotels and restaurants provide visa sponsorship for qualified chefs under the Skilled Worker Visa.
