EuroKompis
Professions in demand / Chefs

Chefs: where you are wanted

Chefs are short in most EU countries, but the UK route has largely closed for new applicants.

Demand in the eight countries

IEIreland
High demand

Listed in the EURES 2025 report. A General Employment Permit is possible with a job offer. Source

NLNetherlands
High demand

Listed as a shortage occupation in the EURES 2025 report. Source

DEGermany
High demand

Listed as a shortage occupation in the EURES 2025 report. Source

SESweden
High demand

Listed as a shortage occupation in the EURES 2025 report. Source

FRFrance
High demand

Listed as a shortage occupation in the EURES 2025 report. Source

PTPortugal
High demand

Listed as a shortage occupation in the EURES 2025 report. Source

ESSpain
Possible

Not listed as a shortage in the EURES 2025 report. Source

UKUnited Kingdom
Limited

Chef roles count as medium-skilled and are not on the current shortage lists, so new Skilled Worker visas are generally not available. Source

Shortage list On an official government shortage list or a dedicated visa route, which usually makes the visa easier or cheaper.High demand Reported as a shortage occupation in the EU's 2025 EURES labour shortages report.Possible No shortage reported. Still possible with a job offer that meets the normal visa rules.Limited Few or no work visa options for this profession at the moment.

Language

Kitchens often work in mixed languages, but the local language helps a lot.

Who recognises your qualification

This profession is not regulated in most countries, so employers judge your experience directly. Having your degree verified by SAQA and assessed by the destination's recognition body still helps with visas.

See your full picture

Your passport, family and salary decide which routes actually open up.

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Other professions

NursesDoctorsPharmacistsPhysiotherapistsSocial workersTeachersChartered accountantsCivil engineersMechanical and electrical engineersSoftware developers and ITElectriciansPlumbers and welders

Checked on 16 October 2026 against official shortage lists and the EU's 2025 EURES labour shortages report. General information, not immigration advice.