Prepare and cook food in commercial kitchens — restaurants, hotels, cafés, hospitals, and aged care facilities.
Talk to a licensed NZ immigration adviser about your Cook visa pathway.
Get Free Assessment →This occupation is classified as ANZSCO Skill Level 4 but is treated as Skill Level 3 for AEWV purposes under INZ Appendix 7 to the Operational Manual. This is automatic — no additional conditions apply. Skill Level 3 AEWV holders get a 5-year visa, no English test, and eligible partner/dependent rights.
Cooks are in significant demand across New Zealand's hospitality sector, aged care facilities, and institutional catering. Under INZ Appendix 7 Part 1, Cook (ANZSCO 351411) is automatically treated as ANZSCO Skill Level 3 for AEWV purposes — meaning you qualify for a 5-year visa, no English evidence requirement, and partner/dependent work rights. New Zealand's tourism recovery, growing aged care sector, and chronic shortage of hospitality workers make this one of the most accessible AEWV pathways for overseas workers with commercial cooking experience.
Salaries are based on NZ market data. Regional and rural positions may offer allowances, relocation support, and retention bonuses in addition to base salary.
Source: Immigration NZ Operational Manual (WA3.16) — updated 9 March 2026
Yes. Cook (ANZSCO 351411) is listed in INZ Appendix 7 Part 1, meaning it is automatically treated as ANZSCO Skill Level 3 for AEWV purposes. This unlocks the 5-year visa, no English test, and partner/dependent work rights.
No. Cook is not on the NZ Green List. However, it qualifies for AEWV via INZ Appendix 7 Part 1. After 2 years working in NZ, you can apply for Skilled Migrant Category residence.
No mandatory registration is required. However, employers typically expect a commercial cookery trade certificate or equivalent, plus food safety certification. 2–3 years of commercial kitchen experience is commonly required.
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