London has many restaurants and pizzerias that need pizza chefs. These jobs can help people with basic cooking skills start a career in food. Some places may offer help with work permits, but rules are strict now.
Current UK Visa Rules for Chef Jobs
UK work visas for chefs fall under the Skilled Worker visa. Employers with a sponsor licence can offer jobs to people from outside the UK.
A big change happened in July 2026. Chef jobs now need a skill level equal to a UK bachelor’s degree (RQF Level 6) for new applicants. Most pizza chef roles do not meet this level. Only people who already had a Skilled Worker visa for a chef job before July 2026 can extend or switch under old rules.
Pizza chef jobs are under occupation code 5434 (Chefs). This code no longer qualifies for new sponsorships unless you already hold continuous leave under previous rules.
Chefs are not on the current Immigration Salary List or any shortage list that allows lower requirements.
Job Options in London for Pizza Chefs
London has openings for pizza chefs in Italian restaurants, chains, and independent spots. Common duties include:
- Stretching dough by hand
- Adding toppings
- Baking pizzas in ovens
- Keeping the kitchen clean
- Following food safety rules
Many jobs are full-time with shifts, including evenings and weekends. Pay often starts around £11 to £13 per hour, plus tips in some places.
Popular employers include PizzaExpress, Franco Manca, and smaller pizzerias. Some listings mention trainee roles where you learn on the job.
Visa Sponsorship Reality in 2026-2026
New pizza chefs from outside the UK cannot get Skilled Worker visa sponsorship for standard roles due to the July 2026 changes.
Some job sites list “visa sponsorship” for chef jobs, but these may be outdated or for people already in the UK on visas.
Trainee or junior pizza chef positions do not qualify for new sponsorships.
If you have lots of experience and the job pays at least £38,700 per year, check with the employer. But most pizza chef jobs pay less.
Requirements for Pizza Chef Jobs
To work as a pizza chef in London, you need:
- Basic experience in making pizzas or kitchen work
- Ability to work fast in a busy kitchen
- Good teamwork skills
- Basic English to follow instructions
- Food hygiene knowledge (you can get a certificate in the UK)
For any visa, you also need:
- A job offer from a licensed sponsor
- Proof of English (like IELTS)
- Enough money to support yourself
| Requirement | Details for Pizza Chef Roles |
|---|---|
| Experience Needed | 1-2 years in pizza or kitchen preferred |
| Hourly Pay (Average) | £11-£13 + possible tips |
| Work Hours | 40-48 per week, including weekends |
| Visa Eligibility (New Applicants) | Not available for standard chef roles |
| English Level | Basic for work; higher for visa if needed |
How to Find and Apply for Jobs
Search on these sites:
- Indeed UK
- Caterer.com
- Jooble
- Restaurant websites like PizzaExpress
Apply directly with your CV. Highlight any pizza-making experience.
If a job mentions sponsorship, ask the employer about current rules.
Network on LinkedIn with London chefs.
Alternatives if Visa Sponsorship is Hard
Come to the UK on a visitor visa and look for jobs (but you cannot work on visitor visa).
Study a cooking course in the UK on a student visa, then look for work.
Some countries have youth mobility schemes that allow work without sponsorship.
Final Tips
Check the official UK government website (gov.uk) for the latest visa rules.
Talk to employers early about visa help.
Focus on building skills – many start with basic jobs and learn more.
London’s food scene is exciting, with chances to work with different people and learn new styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get visa sponsorship as a pizza chef in London in 2026?
No for new applicants. UK rules changed in 2026, and standard chef jobs no longer qualify for Skilled Worker sponsorship.
What pay can I expect as a pizza chef in London?
Around £11-£13 per hour, plus tips in many places. Full-time can be £25,000-£30,000 per year.
Do I need experience to apply for pizza chef jobs?
Basic kitchen or pizza experience helps a lot. Some places offer training for juniors.
