Ever dreamed of living and working in the vibrant, multicultural landscape of Canada? For foodies and hospitality enthusiasts, Canada’s booming restaurant industry offers a delicious opportunity! It’s not all just maple syrup and poutine, either. Canada boasts a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants serving everything from international flavors to local specialties.
But what if you don’t have Canadian citizenship? Fear not! Many restaurants in Canada are eager to welcome skilled and passionate individuals to join their teams, and some are even willing to sponsor visas for the right candidates.
In this blog post, we’ll be your guide to the exciting world of restaurant jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship potential. We’ll explore in-demand positions, the visa sponsorship landscape, and tips to navigate your job search.
So, whether you’re a seasoned chef, a friendly server, or eager to learn the ropes of the restaurant business, get ready to explore how your culinary passion can take you to the Great White North!
15 Restaurant Jobs in Canada With Visa Sponsorship 2024
1. Chef (Average Salary: $52,000/year)
- Location: Nationwide
- Description: Lead the kitchen, create menus, oversee food preparation, and ensure quality and taste.
- Visa Potential: High! Skilled chefs are in demand, especially those with experience in specific cuisines.
2. Sous Chef (Average Salary: $42,000/year)
- Location: Nationwide
- Description: The chef’s right-hand, assisting with menu development, managing kitchen staff, and ensuring smooth operations.
- Visa Potential: Moderate-High. Experienced sous chefs with strong leadership skills have a good chance.
3. Cook (Average Salary: $38,000/year)
- Location: Nationwide
- Description: Prepare dishes according to recipes, ensuring quality and presentation.
- Visa Potential: Moderate. Sponsorship depends on experience and the specific restaurant’s needs.
4. Server (Average Salary: $28,000/year + Tips)
- Location: Nationwide
- Description: Provide excellent customer service, take orders, deliver food and beverages, and maintain a clean and welcoming environment.
- Visa Potential: Moderate. Sponsorship depends on experience, language skills, and the restaurant’s needs.
5. Bartender (Average Salary: $32,000/year + Tips)
- Location: Nationwide in licensed establishments.
- Description: Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, ensure responsible service, and provide excellent customer service.
- Visa Potential: Moderate. Sponsorship depends on experience, knowledge of liquor laws, and the restaurant’s needs.
6. Sommelier (Average Salary: $45,000/year)
- Location: Upscale restaurants with wine programs.
- Description: Manage the wine list, recommend wines to customers, and lead wine education initiatives.
- Visa Potential: Moderate-High, for highly experienced sommeliers with wine certifications.
7. Bakery Chef (Average Salary: $40,000/year)
- Location: Nationwide in bakeries and restaurants with in-house baking.
- Description: Bake breads, pastries, and desserts, ensuring high quality and fresh products.
- Visa Potential: Moderate. Sponsorship depends on experience and the bakery’s specific needs.
8. Line Cook (Average Salary: $35,000/year)
- Location: Nationwide
- Description: Focus on a specific kitchen station, preparing assigned dishes quickly and efficiently.
- Visa Potential: Moderate. Sponsorship depends on experience and the restaurant’s needs.
9. Kitchen Helper (Average Salary: $25,000/year)
- Location: Nationwide
- Description: Assist cooks with prep work, cleaning, and maintaining a clean and organized kitchen environment.
- Visa Potential: Low. Sponsorship is less common, but possible for experienced and highly motivated individuals.
10. Host/Hostess (Average Salary: $26,000/year)
- Location: Nationwide
- Description: Greet guests, seat them, and manage wait lists to ensure a smooth dining experience.
- Visa Potential: Moderate. Sponsorship depends on experience, language skills, and the restaurant’s needs.
11. Dishwasher (Average Salary: $22,000/year)
- Location: Nationwide
- Description: Maintain a clean and sanitary kitchen environment by washing dishes, utensils, and equipment.
- Visa Sponsorship: Low. Sponsorship is uncommon, but possible for highly reliable and experienced individuals.
12. Restaurant Manager (Average Salary: $55,000/year)
- Location: Nationwide
- Description: Oversee all aspects of restaurant operations, including staff management, finances, customer service, and ensuring smooth daily operations.
- Visa Potential: Moderate-High. Experienced restaurant managers with strong leadership skills have a good chance.
13. Pastry Chef (Average Salary: $40,000/year)
- Location: Nationwide in bakeries, restaurants with dessert menus, and specialty pastry shops.
- Description: Create delicious pastries, desserts, and confections, ensuring high quality, presentation, and adherence to recipes.
- Visa Potential: Moderate. Sponsorship depends on experience, creativity, and the bakery/restaurant’s specific needs.
14. Server Assistant (Average Salary: $24,000/year)
- Location: Nationwide
- Description: Assist servers by refilling water glasses, clearing tables, and providing additional support for a smooth dining experience.
- Visa Potential: Low. Sponsorship is uncommon for entry-level positions, but possible for highly motivated individuals with language skills.
15. Banquet Server (Average Salary: $28,000/year + Tips)
- Location: Nationwide in hotels, convention centers, and event venues with catering services.
- Description: Provide exceptional service during large events, conferences, and banquets.
- Visa Potential: Moderate. Sponsorship depends on experience, language skills, and the specific needs of the venue.
Important Considerations:
- Visa Sponsorship is Not Guaranteed: While these jobs have potential for sponsorship, it’s not guaranteed. Research specific employers and their immigration sponsorship history.
- Language Skills Matter: Fluency in English or French is a significant asset and can improve your chances of sponsorship.
- Highlight Your Skills and Experience: In your resume and cover letter, showcase your experience, relevant skills, and passion for the restaurant industry.
Taking the First Step:
- Research Restaurant Visa Sponsors: Look for restaurants advertising visa sponsorship on job boards or their company websites.
- Network and Connect: Attend industry events, connect with chefs and restaurant owners on social media, and build relationships that can open doors.
- Immigration Resources: Familiarize yourself with Canada’s immigration process and visa requirements for skilled workers.
By combining your passion for restaurants with a strategic job search and a focus on the requirements for visa sponsorship, you can increase your chances of landing a rewarding career path in Canada’s exciting culinary scene. So, put on your apron, get ready to explore new flavors, and embark on a delicious adventure in Canada!