The real unsung heroes keeping the American workforce alive are in the kitchens, cafes, and food service spots scattered across the country, and now there are restaurant & kitchen jobs in the USA just for you.
If you have ever dreamed of working abroad but lack a college degree or years of experience, this is where the opportunity lies.
The U.S. restaurant and hospitality sector is in urgent need of foreign labor, and they are actively hiring with visa sponsorship options in 2025.
Why Are Restaurant & Kitchen Jobs in the USA So In-Demand?
Across America, restaurants are struggling to fill basic staff roles, from cooks and dishwashers to servers and line chefs. Why?
- The post-pandemic labor shortage has hit hospitality the hardest.
- Many locals are avoiding physically demanding roles.
- There is high turnover in entry-level food service jobs.
- Immigration gaps have left major employment holes.
This is why many U.S. employers are now tapping into international talent pools, like you.
Read also: Restaurant & Catering Jobs In Toronto With Visa Sponsorship For Foreigners (2025)
Do Restaurant & Kitchen Jobs in the USA Come with Visa Sponsorship in 2025?
A growing number of restaurants and hospitality groups are willing to sponsor work visas under specific immigration programs, such as the following:
- H-2B Visa Program: For temporary non-agricultural jobs, including hospitality.
- J-1 Visa: A cultural exchange program often used by hotel and restaurant employers.
- EB-3 Visa (Unskilled Workers): For longer-term job sponsorship in kitchen roles.
All three programs are being increasingly utilized in 2025 by food industry employers who are desperate to fill roles.
What are the Types of Restaurant & Kitchen Jobs in the USA Hiring Foreigners?
These roles typically do not require formal education, and most offer training on the job:
- Line Cooks: Responsible for preparing dishes according to menu orders.
- Prep Cooks: You will chop vegetables, prepare sauces, and handle early kitchen prep.
- Dishwashers: You will operate cleaning equipment and maintain hygiene standards.
- Servers & Waitstaff: You are to take orders, serve food, and handle customer requests.
- Busboys & Runners: You will assist in clearing tables and running food.
- Kitchen Assistants: General support to the head chef or kitchen team.
Average Salaries for Restaurant & Kitchen Jobs in the USA (2025)
Here is a realistic breakdown of what you might earn in 2025 (before taxes):
- Dishwasher ($28,000 – $34,000/year)
- Line Cook ($32,000 – $45,000/year)
- Server (with tips) ($20,000 – $50,000/year)
- Prep Cook ($30,000 – $38,000/year)
- Kitchen Assistant ($29,000 – $35,000/year)
Some restaurants also offer overtime, meals, uniform allowances, and even housing in rural areas.
Top Restaurant & Kitchen Job Employers in the U.S. Offering Sponsorship
Several large chains and hospitality groups are known to support foreign applicants. These groups (or employers) include the following:
- Aramark
- Compass Group USA
- Delaware North
- Hilton Hotels & Resorts
- Marriott International
- Darden Restaurants (Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse)
These companies have HR teams familiar with the visa sponsorship process and often advertise open roles internationally.
What are the Requirements for Restaurant & Kitchen Jobs in the USA for Foreign Applicants?
To work in a U.S. restaurant or kitchen job with sponsorship, you will need the following to be eligible:
- Valid passport and travel documents
- Basic English communication skills
- Willingness to relocate and work shifts
- Clean medical and police background
- A job offer from a sponsor employer in the USA
Restaurant & Kitchen Jobs In The USA (FAQs)
Can I Apply for Restaurant & Kitchen Jobs without Experience?
Yes, many entry-level roles are open to foreigners without experience. Training is usually provided.
Are Restaurant & Kitchen Jobs only Available in Big Cities?
No, you will find demand in both urban and rural areas, especially tourist towns and seasonal destinations.
How Long Does the Restaurant & Kitchen Jobs Visa Last?
H-2B visas are typically valid for up to 9 months, with potential extensions. EB-3 can lead to permanent residency.
What Age is Required for Restaurant & Kitchen Jobs in the USA?
You typically need to be 18 years or older, with no upper age limit if you are healthy and able to work.
Read also: Healthcare Assistant Jobs In The UK With Free Visa Sponsorship (2025)
Conclusion
If you have been sitting around waiting for the perfect opportunity to relocate, this could be it. Restaurants and kitchens in the USA are not just hiring, but they are practically begging for reliable workers.
Visa sponsorships are real, the pay is fair, and the path to permanent residency is wide open for those who stay consistent.
Do not wait until it is too late. Your next chapter could start in a busy American kitchen, serving up your dreams one dish at a time
