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Looking to advance your culinary career abroad in 2025 or 2026? Vancouver, Canada is calling. With a growing demand for skilled chefs and a multicultural food scene, top-tier restaurants and hospitality groups are offering visa sponsorship opportunities to qualified international chefs. These roles not only offer a solid pathway to permanent residency but also pay salaries of up to CAD 120,000 annually.
Canada’s immigration-friendly policies and steady hospitality sector make it a top destination for chefs, sous chefs, pastry experts, and kitchen supervisors who are ready to bring their experience to a world-class culinary hub.
Why Work as a Chef in Vancouver?
Vancouver is a vibrant food city known for its international cuisines, luxury dining, and strong tourism economy. The demand for skilled kitchen professionals is high, especially in fine dining, resort restaurants, hotel chains, and boutique establishments. With labor shortages in the hospitality sector, many employers are now actively hiring foreign-trained chefs with visa sponsorship and relocation support.
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In-Demand Chef Roles in Vancouver (2025/2026)
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The culinary industry in Vancouver covers a broad range of specialties. Here are the most sought-after roles currently offering visa sponsorship:
Executive Chef
Manages all kitchen operations, staff training, and menu planning. Executive chefs with international credentials can earn between CAD 90,000 to CAD 120,000 per year.
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Sous Chef
The second-in-command in professional kitchens. Sous chefs with 3–5 years’ experience can earn between CAD 60,000 to CAD 85,000 annually.
Pastry Chef
From French patisserie to gourmet desserts, pastry chefs are in high demand in hotels and bakeries. Salaries range from CAD 50,000 to CAD 75,000.
Line Cook / Prep Cook
While these are entry-level, line cooks with international experience may be sponsored under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). Salaries range from CAD 35,000 to CAD 50,000.
Private and Personal Chef
High-income families and private estates seek specialized chefs who can cater to custom menus. These roles often come with accommodation and pay between CAD 70,000 and CAD 110,000.
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Work Visa Options for Chefs in Canada
There are several visa pathways for chefs seeking to work legally in Canada with employer support:
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
Most chef sponsorships are processed through TFWP. Employers must secure an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) to hire a foreign chef.
Express Entry – Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
For skilled tradespeople including chefs, cooks, and bakers. Candidates need language proficiency, relevant work experience, and eligibility for Express Entry.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
British Columbia’s PNP Hospitality Stream offers fast-track residency for chefs who have secured a job offer in the province.
LMIA-Based Work Permits
Once the LMIA is approved, you can apply for a work permit and relocate to Canada with full legal status.
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Top Employers Hiring Chefs in Vancouver
Vancouver’s culinary employers range from global hotel brands to high-end restaurants and private hospitality groups. Many are LMIA-approved:
- Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
- Four Seasons Vancouver
- Blue Water Cafe
- Hawksworth Restaurant
- The Keg Steakhouse + Bar
- Joey Restaurants
- Private catering firms and estate kitchens
Use job boards such as Job Bank Canada, Indeed Canada, and WorkBC to apply directly to sponsored chef roles.
How to Qualify for Chef Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
To get hired as a chef in Canada under a visa sponsorship, you’ll typically need:
- A minimum of 2–3 years of commercial kitchen experience
- Culinary training or a diploma (preferred)
- English language skills (IELTS or CELPIP test for Express Entry)
- Valid passport and clean medical/criminal records
- Ability to adapt to Canadian kitchen safety and hygiene standards
- A job offer from an LMIA-approved employer
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Average Salaries for Chefs in Vancouver
| Role | Average Salary (CAD/year) |
|---|---|
| Executive Chef | CAD 90,000 – CAD 120,000 |
| Sous Chef | CAD 60,000 – CAD 85,000 |
| Pastry Chef | CAD 50,000 – CAD 75,000 |
| Line Cook | CAD 35,000 – CAD 50,000 |
| Private Chef | CAD 70,000 – CAD 110,000 |
Note: Salaries may include bonuses, meals, accommodation, or relocation incentives depending on the employer.
Can You Bring Your Family?
Yes. Most work permit holders can bring their spouse and children. Your spouse may qualify for an open work permit, and children can attend public schools in Canada for free.
Permanent Residency Options for Chefs
Many chefs use visa-sponsored jobs as a pathway to permanent residency through:
- Express Entry (FSTP or Canadian Experience Class)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- LMIA-to-PR transition stream
Once you’ve worked for at least one year in Canada, you may become eligible for permanent residency and eventually Canadian citizenship.
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Final Thoughts
Chef jobs in Vancouver are more than just kitchen work—they’re an opportunity for international professionals to build a career and a new life in Canada. With competitive salaries, visa sponsorship, and a pathway to PR, 2025/2026 is the perfect time to take action. Whether you’re a fine dining expert or a pastry perfectionist, Vancouver is ready for your talent.