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Germany

Chef Visa Route

Skilled Worker Visa (Berufsausbildung)

Chefs are in demand especially in hospitality hubs; vocational credential recognition is required.

Moderate
💰

Minimum Salary

€32,000

Processing Time

4–12 weeks

🏠

Path to PR

~4 years

💼

Job Offer

Required

Language requirement:

B1 German (workplace German essential in most kitchens)

Eligibility requirements

  • 1Culinary qualification (minimum 2-year vocational training) equivalent to German Ausbildung Koch
  • 2Credential recognition by the IHK (Chamber of Industry and Commerce)
  • 3B1 German for workplace communication
  • 4Job offer from a German restaurant, hotel or catering company
  • 5Proof of health insurance

Document checklist

  • Valid passport
  • Culinary qualification certificates (certified German translations)
  • IHK recognition decision
  • German language certificate B1
  • Employment contract
  • Proof of health insurance

Step-by-step process

  1. 1

    Apply for IHK qualification recognition

  2. 2

    Achieve German B1

  3. 3

    Apply for chef roles via restaurant groups and hotel chains in Germany

  4. 4

    Apply for Skilled Worker Visa at the German embassy

  5. 5

    Travel to Germany and register at the Einwohnermeldeamt

Official source

Always verify requirements directly with the official Germany immigration authority.

Visit official page

For information only. Always verify with a regulated immigration adviser. Visa rules change frequently.