Restaurant Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners in 2025

Canada’s restaurant industry is booming, and skilled workers are in high demand, creating ample opportunities for foreign employees. With visa sponsorship available, these roles provide job security and a pathway to permanent residency.

This guide covers everything you need to know, from eligibility and top restaurants and hiring agencies to application steps, to get you started.

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements for Restaurant Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship

Foreign workers must meet specific eligibility criteria and requirements to secure a restaurant job in Canada with visa sponsorship.

Here are key qualifications and processes that most candidates will need to navigate:

• Work Permit Eligibility: Foreign workers need a work permit through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or International Mobility Program (IMP). Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) are available for graduates of Canadian hospitality programs​.
• Language Proficiency: Basic proficiency in English or French is required for most roles. This is usually around CLB level 4-5. Tests like IELTS or TEF may be necessary​.
• Experience/Education: Experience in hospitality or food services is preferred. For roles like chefs or managers, culinary certifications or formal training are highly valued. Food safety certifications may be required for certain positions​.
• Employer Sponsorship: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer is required. The employer assists with the visa process, including securing the LMIA and providing the necessary documentation​.
• Health & Safety: A medical exam may be required. Food safety certifications like FoodSafe are often necessary for food-handling roles​.
• Criminal Background Check: A clean criminal record is typically needed, especially for roles involving customer interaction or alcohol service​.
• Age Requirements: Workers must generally be 18-19 years old for roles involving alcohol service. Other entry-level positions may have fewer age restrictions​.

How to Find and Apply for Restaurant Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship as a Foreigner

Here is a step-by-step guide for finding and applying for restaurant jobs in Canada as a foreigner:

Step 1: Understand the Visa Sponsorship Process

You need a valid work permit to work in Canada as a foreigner. Most restaurant jobs will require the employer to apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to prove that there are no qualified Canadians for the position. 

Some employers may be exempt from the LMIA requirement if they fall under certain programs like the International Mobility Program (IMP).

Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) are available for foreign students who have completed eligible programs at Canadian institutions. These work permits can allow you to gain Canadian work experience and potentially apply for permanent residency​.

Step 2: Research Available Job Listings

Start by looking at popular Canadian job boards such as Job Bank, Indeed, and Workopolis. Many restaurant chains and local eateries will post job openings on these platforms.

Check the official restaurant websites for career opportunities, especially large restaurant groups, hotel chains, or hospitality organizations with international reach, as they often sponsor foreign workers.

Use LinkedIn to connect with recruiters or restaurants actively hiring foreign workers for specific positions​.

Step 3: Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter

Customize your resume and cover letter to reflect Canadian standards. Highlight your hospitality experience, culinary certifications, and any relevant language skills (English/French).

Ensure your documents meet Canadian labor market expectations: clearly state your job title, experience, and the skills relevant to the specific role you are applying for.

Emphasize your willingness to relocate, your commitment to working in Canada, and how your experience can benefit the employer​.

Step 4: Apply for the Job

Submit your resume and cover letter via the application portals on job boards, restaurant websites, or directly to the restaurant’s HR team. Ensure you are applying to restaurants that explicitly mention offering visa sponsorship or are open to sponsoring foreign workers.

Be clear in your application about your eligibility for work in Canada and your visa requirements.

For high-demand roles, such as chefs or restaurant managers, mention any relevant certifications such as FoodSafe or ServeSafe, and any additional training that may set you apart​.

Step 5: Prepare for Interviews

Once you receive an interview invitation, prepare by researching the restaurant or hospitality group to understand its values, menu, and the role you’re applying for. Be ready to discuss how your background aligns with the company’s goals.

You may be asked questions about language skills, previous experience in the food industry, and how well you handle high-pressure environments.

Some employers may conduct virtual interviews if you are applying from abroad. Be sure to test your technology ahead of time and be ready to discuss your visa status during the interview​.

Step 6: Secure the Job Offer and LMIA

If hired, the employer will provide you with a formal job offer letter, essential for your work permit application.

If required, the employer will apply for an LMIA, which can take several weeks to process. Once approved, it will allow you to apply for your work permit. If the employer is exempt from needing an LMIA, they will proceed with your work permit application directly​.

Step 7: Apply for Your Work Permit

After receiving the job offer and LMIA (if required), you can apply for your work permit through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

You must submit supporting documents, such as your job offer letter, LMIA, proof of language proficiency (if required), and criminal background check (if requested).

Once approved, your work permit will allow you to start your job in Canada. If the job leads to long-term employment, you may explore opportunities for permanent residency.​

Step 8: Arrive in Canada and Start Your Job

Once your work permit is approved, you can travel to Canada and begin working at your restaurant job. Upon arrival, follow Canadian immigration procedures and adhere to the work permit conditions, including working only for the employer who sponsored your visa.

Take time to familiarize yourself with Canadian workplace culture and local food safety regulations to ensure you succeed in your new job​.

Top Restaurants and Hiring Agencies Offering Restaurant Jobs In Canada With Visa Sponsorship

Here are the top restaurants and hiring agencies in Canada with visa sponsorship for restaurant job roles:

The Keg Steakhouse & Bar

The Keg is a well-established Canadian restaurant chain known for its high-quality steaks and casual dining atmosphere, with locations across the country.

They are open to hiring foreign workers for various positions, including cooks, servers, and managers. They often offer visa sponsorship through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).

Foreign workers must meet basic requirements, including language proficiency and relevant experience in the restaurant industry. Applicants for managerial roles may need to demonstrate higher levels of leadership experience.

How to Apply: Interested applicants can visit The Keg Careers to find current job openings and apply directly through their website.

McDonald’s Canada

As one of the largest fast-food chains globally, McDonald’s has numerous locations throughout Canada, offering both full-time and part-time positions in multiple roles, from kitchen staff to managerial positions.

McDonald’s Canada offers visa sponsorship for foreign workers, especially for entry-level roles in their restaurants and management positions.

Applicants must have basic proficiency in English or French and the relevant work experience. International students or foreign graduates with Canadian qualifications are often prioritized for sponsorship opportunities.

How to Apply: Visit McDonald’s Canada Careers to explore available positions and learn about their hiring process for foreign workers.

Earls Kitchen + Bar

Earls is a popular Canadian chain of upscale casual dining restaurants offering a diverse menu and a great working environment. With locations across Canada, Earls frequently hires for various roles.

They are committed to hiring foreign workers for many positions, particularly in kitchen operations and management. They provide visa sponsorship through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.

Applicants should have experience in the hospitality industry, language proficiency (English/French), and be able to fulfill the restaurant’s operational needs.

How to Apply: Visit Earls Careers for job listings and instructions on applying for positions that offer visa sponsorship.

Compass Group Canada

Compass Group Canada is a leader in food service management, operating across multiple industries, including healthcare, education, and business dining.

As a large company, Compass Group Canada regularly hires foreign workers for roles in kitchen staff, catering, and managerial positions, offering visa sponsorship under the TFWP.

Foreign workers need to meet the standard immigration requirements, such as language proficiency and experience in food service. Some positions may also require specific food safety certifications.

How to Apply: Check out Compass Group Canada Careers for information on how to apply for roles that offer visa sponsorship.

Restaurant Brands International (RBI)

RBI is the parent company of major restaurant brands such as Tim Hortons, Burger King, and Popeyes in Canada. 

They regularly hire for various positions across its brands and provide visa sponsorship to qualified foreign workers through various immigration pathways, such as the Global Talent Stream and Temporary Foreign Worker Program.

Applicants should have relevant experience in the restaurant industry and may need to demonstrate proficiency in English or French. Specialized positions like restaurant managers may require additional experience or certifications.

How to Apply: Visit Restaurant Brands International Careers for job openings and to submit applications for positions with visa sponsorship.

The Average Salary for Restaurant Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship

Restaurant jobs in Canada offer varying salaries based on job type, location, experience, and industry. 

Here’s a breakdown of average salaries across key categories:

National Average Salary

• Hourly Wage: The average hourly wage for restaurant workers ranges between CAD 15 to 20 per hour for entry-level positions. More experienced roles such as chefs or managers can earn more.
• Annual Salary: The average annual salary for restaurant workers ranges from CAD 30,000 to 50,000. In managerial or higher-skilled positions, this can rise to CAD 60,000 or more annually​.

By Position

• Cook/Chef: Earn CAD 16 to 22 per hour, translating to around CAD 40,000 to 50,000 annually for regular cooks, while executive chefs can earn upwards of CAD 70,000, especially in higher-end restaurants or larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver.
• Server/Waitstaff: Earn CAD 12 to 18 per hour, excluding tips. Annually, their base salary ranges from CAD 30,000 to 40,000. However, tips can significantly increase their earnings, adding CAD 5,000 to 15,000 annually.
• Restaurant Manager: Earn CAD 20 to 30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from CAD 45,000 to 65,000. Managers in major cities or fine dining establishments may earn more, especially with experience​
• Dishwasher: Earn CAD 20 to 30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from CAD 45,000 to 65,000. Managers in major cities or fine dining establishments may earn more, especially with experience​

By Region

• Toronto: Cooks earn CAD 18 to 22 per hour while restaurant managers earn CAD 55,000 to 70,000 annually. Larger restaurants or those in popular areas may offer salaries on the higher end of the spectrum​/
• Vancouver: Servers earn CAD 16 to 20 per hour (excluding tips) while chefs earn CAD 20 to 25 per hour. Specialized or experienced chefs and servers in higher-end restaurants can command higher wages​.
• Calgary: Cooks earn CAD 15 to 20 per hour and restaurant managers earn CAD 50,000 to 65,000 annually. Cooks and restaurant managers in more advanced positions or specialty cuisines tend to earn more.
• Montreal: Cooks earn CAD 14 to 18 per hour, servers earn CAD 13 to 16 per hour, and restaurant managers earn CAD 40,000 to 55,000 annually.
• Ottawa: Cooks earn CAD 15 to 20 per hour, servers earn CAD 14 to 18 per hour, and restaurant managers earn CAD 45,000 to 60,000 annually. Ottawa’s restaurant sector, while competitive, offers good wages for cooks, especially with experience.
• Edmonton: Cooks earn CAD 15 to 18 per hour while restaurant managers earn CAD 45,000 to 60,000 annually. 
• Quebec City: Cooks earn CAD 14 to 18 per hour while servers earn CAD 13 to 16 per hour (excluding tips). Quebec City has a significant tourist trade, so servers in tourist-heavy areas may earn higher wages​.

By Experience Level

• Entry-Level (Less than 1 year): Entry-level restaurant workers such as new cooks or servers earn CAD 14 to 16 per hour. This translates to an annual salary of approximately CAD 28,000 to 35,000, assuming full-time employment. 
• Mid-Level (1 to 5 years): Workers with 1 to 5 years of experience can expect to earn between CAD 16 to 20 per hour. These roles might include experienced cooks, servers, and baristas. Annually, this translates to a salary of CAD 35,000 to 45,000.
• Experienced (5+ years): Experienced chefs, sous chefs, and senior kitchen staff can earn CAD 22 to 30 per hour. Experienced professionals in restaurant management or specialized kitchen roles can earn CAD 50,000 to 70,000 annually.

By Employment Type

• Full-Time: Full-time positions, such as managers or experienced cooks, earn higher wages, typically ranging from CAD 45,000 to 65,000 annually.
• Part-Time: Part-time workers, including servers and dishwashers, typically earn between CAD 12 to 18 per hour, with additional earnings from tips in higher-end establishments​.

By Industry

• Fine Dining: Positions in upscale restaurants offer higher wages. Chefs earn CAD 20 to 25 per hour, and managers can earn up to CAD 70,000 annually.
• Fast Food/Quick Service: Typically lower wages, with entry-level staff earning CAD 14 to 16 per hour. Higher positions such as supervisors may earn around CAD 20 per hour​.

By Job Type (Restaurant Divisions)

• Kitchen Staff (e.g., Line Cooks, Sous Chefs): Salaries range from CAD 16 to 22 per hour, with more specialized roles like executive chefs earning higher rates.
• Service Staff (e.g., Servers, Bartenders): These positions typically pay CAD 12 to 18 per hour, but tips can increase earnings significantly in high-end establishments.
• Management: Restaurant managers usually earn CAD 45,000 to 70,000 annually, depending on the restaurant’s location and size​.

Benefits of Restaurant Jobs In Canada With Visa Sponsorship

Restaurant jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship offer a range of benefits for foreign workers:

Work and Settlement Opportunities

Visa sponsorships for restaurant jobs allow foreign workers to legally work in Canada, providing a clear path to establish themselves professionally. 

Many employers offer the Temporary Work Permit (TWP), which can lead to permanent residency through pathways like the Express Entry Program. This makes Canada an excellent option for those looking for long-term settlement opportunities.

Competitive Salaries and Benefits

Restaurant jobs in Canada often provide competitive wages, especially in larger cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. 

Entry-level salaries typically start at around CAD 14 to 16 per hour but can rise significantly with experience, reaching CAD 22 to 30 per hour for senior positions like chefs and restaurant managers​.

Additionally, many employers offer benefits such as health insurance, paid vacation days, and opportunities for career advancement.

Career Growth and Development

Canada’s hospitality industry is rapidly growing, with a constant demand for skilled workers. For foreign workers with restaurant experience, this creates numerous opportunities for professional development. 

Employees can gain valuable experience in various roles, from servers and cooks to restaurant management and executive chef positions. 

Many employers offer training programs to help workers develop their skills and progress in their careers​.

Support for Immigration

Visa sponsorship for restaurant jobs is not just about securing employment—it can be a gateway to Canadian citizenship. 

Many restaurant chains and individual businesses support their foreign workers in applying for permanent residency through provincial nomination programs (PNPs) or federal programs. 

For example, the Atlantic Immigration Pilot and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) often prioritize skilled workers in the hospitality industry​.

Diverse Work Environment

Canada is known for its multicultural environment, which is especially evident in the restaurant industry. 

Working in Canadian restaurants provides the opportunity to meet people from all over the world and experience diverse culinary traditions. This can be both professionally enriching and personally rewarding for those seeking to broaden their cultural and culinary horizons.

Stable Industry and High Demand

The restaurant and hospitality industry in Canada is a key sector of the economy, with a growing demand for skilled labor. 

Foreign workers in restaurant roles are in demand, particularly in major metropolitan areas where restaurants constantly require cooks, chefs, waitstaff, and managers. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age limit for restaurant jobs in Canada?

In Canada, there is no specific age limit for restaurant jobs, but applicants must meet the legal working age, which typically ranges from 14 to 15 years old for entry-level roles. Certain positions, like bartenders, require workers to be at least 18 or 19 years old, depending on the province​.

How long does the visa sponsorship process take for restaurant jobs in Canada?

The visa sponsorship process for restaurant jobs in Canada can take from a few weeks to several months, depending on the visa type and applicant’s circumstances. Temporary work permits typically take 2 to 4 months to process, while applying for permanent residency through programs like Express Entry can take 6 months or more​.

Can restaurant workers apply for permanent residency in Canada?

Yes, restaurant workers in Canada can apply for permanent residency through programs like the Express Entry system or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Workers with job offers in Canada’s hospitality industry, especially those with skilled positions like chefs and restaurant managers, may be eligible for faster immigration processing.