Sponsorship

Skilled worker visa guide for hiring international chefs

Since 2021, the UK has implemented a points-based immigration system that includes the Skilled Worker Visa. This visa allows skilled individuals from both EU and non-EU countries to work in the UK with an approved employer.

COREcruitment and The Cavalry have partnered to support and assist companies wishing to attract the best talent worldwide, with minimum efforts and worries.

Here’s a straightforward overview of how it works, the associated costs, and the benefits of sponsoring international talent.

Updated salary requirements for skilled worker visas

As of April 2024, there have been significant updates to the salary requirements for sponsoring overseas workers:

• The general minimum salary for a skilled worker visa is now £38,700 per year or the “going rate” for the specific role, whichever is higher.
• For chefs, the salary requirement may vary depending on the specific position. For guidance on the salary requirements for different chef roles, please reach out to Stu@thecavalryglobal.com.

Sponsorship licence options for hiring chefs

If you have a sponsorship licence

Businesses with a sponsorship licence can use the skilled worker visa to bring skilled chefs into their kitchens, allowing you to sponsor and secure highly trained talent for your team.

If you don’t have a sponsorship licence

If you haven’t yet acquired a sponsorship licence, The Cavalry, in partnership with OISC Level 3 immigration specialists, can guide you through the process. We simplify the application process, allowing you to focus on managing your team while we help you become an approved sponsor.

Mutual benefits of sponsoring international chefs

• Access to skilled, motivated talent: Sponsoring international chefs attracts individuals eager to advance their careers and bring new techniques. Employers gain highly motivated team members, while chefs have opportunities to refine their skills in a supportive environment.
• Enhanced team stability: The UK’s high quality of life and stability appeals to international chefs, who are likely to commit long-term. This reduces turnover for employers and provides chefs with a secure, stable career path.
• Qualifications and experience: International chefs bring diverse qualifications and specialised experience, enhancing skill levels within the kitchen. Employers benefit from highly trained professionals, while chefs gain exposure to new techniques and industry standards in the UK.
• Dedication and strong work ethic: Relocating chefs often exhibit high motivation and commitment, positively impacting service quality and team morale. Employers enjoy a dedicated team member, while chefs appreciate the opportunity to showcase their skills.
• Support for family integration: The skilled worker visa allows chefs to bring their families, making relocation more attractive. Employers benefit from the chef’s improved work-life balance and long-term commitment, while chefs enjoy a smoother transition with family support.

Costs involved in sponsoring a skilled worker visa

Here’s an outline of the costs associated with sponsoring a skilled worker visa chef in the UK:

• Sponsorship licence: £536 for small businesses or £1,476 for large businesses.
• Certificate of sponsorship: £239 per individual.
• Immigration skills charge: £364 per year for small businesses or £1,000 per year for large businesses.
• UKVI lodgement fee: £750 for applications from overseas, or £247 for in-country applications.
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year.

How we can help

The Cavalry Global offers a streamlined approach to make hiring international chefs efficient and stress-free. With networks across Asia, South America, Africa, the Netherlands, the Middle East, and Australia, we connect you to highly qualified chefs ready to work in the UK.

Our in-country partnerships and connections with local chef schools give us a unique edge in sourcing top talent.

Dedicated support at every step

We provide hands-on support throughout the recruitment and sponsorship process, coordinating with immigration experts when needed to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Guidance for compliance

We work alongside trusted immigration partners to help you navigate complex visa requirements, giving you confidence that your recruitment process is fully compliant.

Tailored candidate matching

The Cavalry takes the time to understand both your specific needs and the candidates’ preferences, ensuring we find chefs who are not only skilled but also the right fit for your kitchen’s culture and standards. By aligning the needs of both parties, we aim to create long-lasting, successful placements that benefit everyone.

Complete recruitment process management

We handle the entire recruitment process, from taking a detailed brief and understanding your requirements to screening and assessing candidates. We also manage visa applications, paperwork, and notice periods, ensuring a smooth transition and saving you time and resources.

For more information on recruiting international chefs or setting up a sponsorship licence, contact:

• Krishnan Doyle, COREcruitment Ltd : krishnan@corecruitment.com
• Stuart Campbell, The Cavalry : stu@thecavalryglobal.com

Find out more on The Cavalry & COREcruitment Process here.