The TN Visa does not have a NAFTA Occupation for chef or cook, but depending on your experience and the job you may qualify to work as a management consultant.
There are other U.S. work visas that a chef or cook may qualify for, but it will depend on the job and skill set required as well as your experience. Not all cook/chef positions will qualify for a visa.
For example,
1. An O-1 visa allows a chef with extraordinary experience to work in the U.S. (this is how most athletes and famous actors enter the U.S.)
2. E-2 visa or L-1 visa allows for managerial chef positions, specialized knowledge
3. H1B visa enable large hotel or prestigious restaurants to sponsor a chef.
4. J-1 visa enables a young chef to get training
If you are unsure about your situation, email us at
Author Jacob Sapochnick serves as the Managing Partner/CEO of a prominent law firm that focuses on immigration law. Boasting an extensive legal background spanning over a decade, he adeptly merges his enthusiasm for law with cutting-edge technology to aid clients worldwide in their journey to immigrate to the United States.