For information only. This guide provides general information only and does not constitute immigration, legal, or financial advice. Visa rules, salary thresholds, and qualification requirements change frequently. Always verify critical decisions with official government sources and a qualified professional. Full disclaimer ↗
Chef Relocation Guide: Moving to Germany
High demand · €28,300-€38,000 · Visa: Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräfteeinwanderung)
This guide is for a Chef planning to move to Germany. Whether you just received a job offer, are still exploring, or are mid-application — you will find everything you need here.
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Quick stats
💰 Salary
€28,300-€38,000
📋 Visa
Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräfteeinwanderung)
Cooks of a foreign cuisine hired by a speciality restaurant can instead use the separate rule for speciality cooks, which needs no German recognition.
🎓 Recognition
Cooking is not a regulated profession in Germany. For the Skilled Worker Visa yo...
📈 Demand
High
Quick answers
Can a Chef work in Germany as a non-EU professional?
Yes, through the Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräfteeinwanderung) route. Cooks of a foreign cuisine hired by a speciality restaurant can instead use the separate rule for speciality cooks, which needs no German recognition. Chefs currently see High demand in Germany.
What salary can a Chef expect in Germany?
€28,300-€38,000 gross per year.
How long does it take to move to Germany as a Chef?
Visa processing time depends on your route and current authority workload — see the visa guide for the latest timelines. Allow extra time for qualification recognition if your role needs it.
🔍 What nobody tells you
Real-world insights for Chefs in Germany are being gathered from community forums. Check back soon. Or search Reddit for current discussions.
What Do Chefs Earn in Germany?
€28,300-€38,000
Median salary: €32,900
Which Visa Do Chefs Use to Move to Germany?
Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräfteeinwanderung)
Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräfteeinwanderung) is the main route for Chefs relocating to Germany. Cooks of a foreign cuisine hired by a speciality restaurant can instead use the separate rule for speciality cooks, which needs no German recognition.
Is Your Chef Qualification Recognised in Germany?
Cooking is not a regulated profession in Germany. For the Skilled Worker Visa your vocational qualification must be recognised as equivalent to the German cook training (Koch/Köchin); for most cooks the IHK FOSA decides. Cooks of a foreign cuisine can also be hired by a speciality restaurant under a separate rule for speciality cooks, without German recognition.
Recognition authority: IHK FOSA (recognition of vocational qualifications)
If your role needs recognition, it can take several months, so start the process before you arrive.
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Share your data →Your Home Country Finances
Select your home country in the header (“From”) to see finance guidance for your move to Germany.