Can a Cook Immigrate to Canada?
Yes — here are the immigration programs, active jobs, and provinces hiring cooks in Canada right now.
Key Requirements
Work Experience
One to two years of continuous paid work experience as a cook or in a closely related role.
Language Proficiency
Proof of English or French language skills via an approved test (IELTS, CELPIP for English; TEF, TCF for French). A minimum CLB 7 in all abilities is recommended for Express Entry.
Education Assessment
An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a designated organization (e.g., WES, IQAS) to verify your foreign diploma or degree is equivalent to a Canadian credential.
Job Offer (Optional)
A valid job offer no longer adds CRS points (removed March 2025), but it can satisfy eligibility for certain Express Entry programs and is required for employer-sponsored work permits. There are currently 3921 active cook openings on Job Bank.
Proof of Funds
You must demonstrate sufficient settlement funds — currently $15,263 for a single applicant, $28,362 for a family of 4. Waived if you have a valid Canadian job offer.
| Family Size | Minimum Funds (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 (Single) | $15,263 |
| 2 (Couple) | $19,001 |
| 3 | $23,360 |
| 4 | $28,362 |
| 5 | $32,168 |
| 6 | $36,280 |
| 7 | $40,392 |
| Each additional member | +$4,112 |
Eligible Immigration Programs
Express Entry (FSW)
High MatchFederal Skilled Worker program for qualified professionals with work experience.
Provincial Nominee Program
Medium MatchProvinces nominate workers with in-demand skills. Adds 600 CRS points.
Temporary Work Permit (LMIA)
High MatchEmployer-sponsored LMIA work permit — gain Canadian experience, then transition to PR.
Atlantic Immigration Program
Medium MatchEmployer-driven program for Atlantic Canada with faster processing.
International Experience Canada
Medium MatchWorking holiday or young professional visa for eligible countries.
Salary Information
| Province | Median | Low | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | $13.74/hr | $11.20 | $19.80 |
| British Columbia | $12.85/hr | $10.45 | $19.40 |
| Manitoba | $11.93/hr | $11.00 | $18.71 |
| New Brunswick | $11.41/hr | $10.30 | $19.08 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $12.64/hr | $10.50 | $20.64 |
| Northwest Territories | $18.00/hr | $13.00 | $26.01 |
| Nova Scotia | $11.70/hr | $10.60 | $18.19 |
| Nunavut | $19.00/hr | $15.00 | $34.00 |
| Ontario | $11.50/hr | $11.25 | $18.08 |
| Prince Edward Island | $12.00/hr | $10.50 | $17.64 |
| Quebec | $12.18/hr | $10.55 | $18.49 |
| Saskatchewan | $13.14/hr | $10.64 | $20.48 |
| Yukon | $17.13/hr | $13.50 | $29.88 |
Top Provinces Hiring
Current Job Openings
Cook
$16.86 to $21.15 hourly (to be negotiated)Restaurant Normandin Ste-Foy (2014) Inc. · Québec, Quebec
Cook Supervisor
$30.17 hourlySushi Cushi · Winnipeg, Manitoba
Pizza Cook
$20.00 hourlySam's Grocery · Kingsport, Nova Scotia
Cook
$17.00 hourlyMezza Lebanese Kitchen · Halifax, Nova Scotia
Cook
$18.00 hourlyAtomic Pizza & Donair · Stony Plain, Alberta
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