Chef Migration Points and Visa Process 2026–2027
Direct answer
Chef 351311 is currently on the MLTSSL; Cook 351411 is on the STSOL. Both are assessed by Trades Recognition Australia. A Chef may be relevant to 189 as well as nominated or employer routes, while Cook is not a standard 189 points-tested occupation.
The NovenAI Data Team checked the distinction between Chef 351311 and Cook 351411, TRA assessment and current visa-list pathways.
Based on official sources: Current skilled occupation instrumentChef 351311
Chef plans and organises food preparation and cooking and may cover menu planning, costing, ordering, quality control and supervision consistent with the ANZSCO definition. It is on the MLTSSL in the current occupation instrument and TRA is the assessing authority. “Sous Chef” is generally treated as a specialisation or job title within the Chef occupation, not ANZSCO 351112.
Cook 351411
Cook prepares, seasons and cooks food under the occupation definition. It is on the STSOL and TRA is the assessing authority. Cook does not become Chef because the workplace uses the title loosely; the actual responsibility, qualification and employment evidence must support 351311.
Skills assessment
TRA directs applicants to the assessment program that fits their occupation, passport, study location, qualification and visa purpose. Requirements vary between programs. Confirm the correct TRA program before paying and provide consistent qualification, employment, pay and duty evidence.
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Visa pathways
Chef may be relevant to the 189 points-tested stream because it is on the MLTSSL, as well as 190, 491 and employer options where all additional criteria are met. Cook can be relevant to state-nominated or employer routes only where the current instrument and program allow it; do not present standard 189 as a Cook pathway.
Restaurant sponsorship is not automatic
A job offer or vacancy is not an approved nomination. Standard employer programs or the premium-dining labour agreement may apply depending on the business and role. The employer must meet sponsorship, salary, market testing and nomination rules, while the worker must meet skill, experience, English, health and character requirements.
Where do you sit in the EOI pool?
Enter your occupation and score to see how many EOIs are ahead of you.
Points and evidence
For points-tested routes, 65 is the minimum threshold, not a guarantee. State criteria and invitation results change. Keep the TRA occupation, EOI points and visa employment evidence aligned; inconsistencies between “Cook” and “Chef” records can be material.
Official references: Current skilled occupation instrument; Trades Recognition Australia; Home Affairs industry labour agreements. Recheck the live source immediately before lodging or paying because rules, fees and published data can change.
Use the verified rules above as the starting point, then test the dates, evidence and points that apply to your profile with NovenAI. A calculator or estimate is not an invitation, nomination or visa decision.