Restaurant Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners in 2025

Explore exciting opportunities in the U.S. restaurant industry, where skilled foreigners can secure jobs with visa sponsorship. From bustling city eateries to upscale dining establishments, employers are actively seeking global talent to meet growing demands. 

This guide uncovers the eligibility for restaurant jobs in USA, highlights top food services offering visa sponsorship, and provides application links to get you started today.

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements for Restaurant Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship

Foreign workers must meet specific eligibility criteria and requirements to secure restaurant jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship:

• Valid Passport: Applicants must have a valid passport with sufficient validity to cover the visa duration.
• Educational Background: A high school diploma is often required for entry-level positions, while managerial roles may demand a degree in hospitality or culinary arts.
• Work Experience: Entry-level roles may not require prior experience, but positions like chefs or restaurant managers typically require 2–5 years of relevant experience.
• Language Skills: Proficiency in English is essential for effective communication with customers and colleagues.
• Job Offer from a U.S. Employer: A valid job offer from a U.S.-based restaurant willing to sponsor your visa is mandatory.
• Visa Eligibility: Common visa categories include H-2B for seasonal workers or H-1B for specialized roles. Employers usually assist in processing these visas.
• Health and Background Checks: Applicants must pass mandatory health screenings and background checks as part of the visa process.
• Flexibility and Availability: Willingness to work shifts, weekends, and holidays is often required in the restaurant industry.
• Customer Service Skills: Demonstrating strong interpersonal and customer service skills can increase your chances of securing a position.

How to Find and Apply for Restaurant Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship as a Foreigner

Follow this step-by-step guide to secure restaurant jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship:

Step 1: Research Job Opportunities

Begin by identifying U.S. restaurants or hospitality groups offering visa sponsorship. Use platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, and industry-specific sites like Culinary Agents to search for jobs. 

Focus on roles frequently offered to foreigners, such as cooks, chefs, servers, and restaurant managers.

Step 2: Check Visa Sponsorship Eligibility

Ensure the job listings specify visa sponsorship or inquire directly with employers. H-2B visas are commonly offered for seasonal restaurant roles, while H-1B visas may apply to specialized positions like chefs or sommeliers.

Step 3: Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter

Create a U.S.-style resume emphasizing your relevant skills and experience in the restaurant industry. Include certifications like ServSafe or culinary training if applicable. 

Write a personalized cover letter showcasing your passion for hospitality and willingness to relocate.

Step 4: Network with Industry Professionals

Join industry forums, attend hospitality job fairs, and connect with recruiters or employers on platforms like LinkedIn. Networking can help you access unadvertised opportunities and learn about companies actively hiring international talent.

Step 5: Apply to Multiple Employers

Submit applications to various restaurants or chains, prioritizing those with a history of hiring foreign workers. Ensure all required documents, including your resume, cover letter, and any certifications, are included.

Step 6: Prepare for Interviews

If shortlisted, prepare for interviews by researching the company and practicing common hospitality-related questions. 

Highlight your adaptability, teamwork, and customer service skills. For virtual interviews, ensure a professional setting and reliable internet connection.

Step 7: Secure a Job Offer

Once you receive a job offer, confirm the employer’s commitment to visa sponsorship. Review the terms of employment, including job responsibilities, salary, and visa support details.

Step 8: Complete Visa Application Process

Work with your employer to apply for the appropriate visa. They will typically file petitions with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on your behalf. Ensure you provide all requested documents promptly.

Step 9: Plan Your Relocation

After obtaining your visa, plan your relocation to the U.S. Coordinate with your employer regarding housing, transportation, and initial onboarding. Many restaurants offer relocation assistance to foreign workers.

Step 10: Start Your Job and Build Your Career

Begin your role in the restaurant and focus on excelling in your position. Building strong relationships with your team and demonstrating commitment can open doors for long-term opportunities and career growth in the U.S. hospitality sector.

Top Food Services Offering Restaurant Jobs In USA With Visa Sponsorship

Here are several prominent food service companies and restaurant chains actively support visa sponsorship for international talent:

McDonald’s Corporation

McDonald’s, the world’s largest fast-food chain, has a significant presence in the U.S. and hires for various roles, including crew members, kitchen staff, and shift managers. 

While most entry-level roles are filled locally, McDonald’s franchises in high-demand areas often sponsor H-2B visas for seasonal workers and for roles in regions experiencing worker shortages.

Candidates with a high school diploma and basic customer service skills are preferred. Prior experience is a plus but not mandatory for entry-level roles.

How to Apply: Visit the McDonald’s Careers Page to explore opportunities and connect with franchise operators regarding sponsorship options.

Darden Restaurants

Darden Restaurants owns popular brands such as Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, and The Capital Grille. They recruit workers for positions like servers, cooks, and restaurant managers and have a reputation for supporting H-1B visa applications for specialized roles.

Candidates must have relevant experience for managerial or culinary roles, along with strong communication skills and knowledge of U.S. hospitality standards.

How to Apply: Apply through the Darden Careers Portal, where you can filter jobs and inquire about visa sponsorship opportunities.

Compass Group USA

Compass Group is a global leader in food and support services, operating in sectors like healthcare, education, and corporate dining. They hire chefs, kitchen staff, and catering managers to meet the diverse needs of their clients.

They frequently sponsors H-2B visas for seasonal work and H-1B visas for specialized roles. Applicants should demonstrate prior experience in catering or food services, with additional skills like menu planning or event coordination being a bonus.

How to Apply: Browse openings on their Careers Page, where you can find jobs and connect with recruiters for more information about visa sponsorship.

Aramark

Aramark offers food services in educational institutions, sports arenas, and healthcare facilities. Known for their focus on quality, they hire for roles such as food preparation staff, line cooks, and catering coordinators.

Aramark regularly supports H-2B visas for temporary roles and sponsors H-1B visas for technical and managerial positions. A high school diploma is required for most roles, while supervisory positions may require experience in hospitality management.

How to Apply: Visit the Aramark Careers Page to search for jobs and review their sponsorship policies.

Starbucks Corporation

As a global coffeehouse chain, Starbucks hires baristas, shift supervisors, and store managers. While most barista roles are filled locally, Starbucks provides limited visa sponsorship for corporate roles or specialized management positions.

Customer service experience is essential for baristas, while store managers may require leadership and operational management experience.

How to Apply: Check out the Starbucks Careers Page to find roles that match your qualifications and learn more about visa options.

Marriott International

Marriott, a global leader in hospitality, operates restaurants within its hotels, offering roles such as chefs, food servers, and restaurant managers. They actively support international hiring to maintain quality in their luxury dining establishments.

Marriott is known for sponsoring H-2B visas for seasonal roles and H-1B visas for specialized hospitality positions. Candidates must have experience in hospitality or culinary arts, and language proficiency is critical for guest-facing roles.

How to Apply: Explore positions on the Marriott Careers Platform, where you can find roles with visa sponsorship support.

Yum! Brands (KFC, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut)

Yum! Brands operates popular chains like KFC, Taco Bell, and Pizza Hut. They frequently hire cooks, cashiers, and managerial staff. Visa sponsorship is often extended to foreign workers for critical roles in high-demand areas.

Franchisees may offer H-2B sponsorship for seasonal roles and H-1B visas for skilled positions. Basic customer service skills are essential for entry-level roles. Managerial positions often require experience and operational expertise.

How to Apply: Visit the Yum! Brands Careers Page to explore opportunities across their brands.

The Average Salary for Restaurant Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship

Here is a detailed breakdown of average earnings across different categories:

National Average

• Hourly: The average hourly wage for restaurant workers is approximately $15-$18.
• Annually: Annual earnings range between $30,000 and $37,500, depending on the role and working hours.

Salaries by Cities

• New York City, NY: $18–$22/hour; annual average of $37,500–$46,000.
• Los Angeles, CA: $16–$20/hour; annual earnings of $35,000–$42,000.
• Chicago, IL: $15–$19/hour; annual income averaging $32,000–$40,000.
• Houston, TX: $14–$18/hour; annual pay of $30,000–$38,000.
• Miami, FL: $13–$17/hour; annual average of $28,000–$35,000.

Salaries by States

• California: Average hourly wage of $16–$20; annual average around $35,000–$43,000.
• Texas: Hourly wage of $14–$18; annual earnings of $30,000–$36,000.
• Florida: $13–$17/hour; annual income between $28,000 and $34,000.
• New York: $18–$22/hour; annual pay of $37,500–$45,000.
• Illinois: $15–$19/hour; annual salary of $32,000–$39,000.

Salaries by Employment Types

• Full-Time Employees: Annual earnings range from $32,000 to $50,000, depending on the role and experience.
• Part-Time Employees: Hourly wages average between $12 and $20, translating to a weekly income of $200–$800, based on hours worked.
• Contract Workers/Seasonal Roles: $13–$18/hour, depending on the peak demand and specific employer needs.

Salaries by Experience Levels

• Entry-Level (0-2 years): $12–$16/hour; annual earnings between $25,000 and $33,000.
• Mid-Level (3-5 years): $15–$20/hour; annual pay averaging $35,000–$42,000.
• Experienced Professionals (6+ years): $18–$25/hour; annual salaries between $40,000 and $55,000, especially for managerial roles.

Salaries by Industry Divisions

• Fast Food Workers: $12–$15/hour; annual average of $25,000–$32,000.
• Fine Dining Restaurants: $18–$25/hour; annual earnings of $40,000–$50,000, particularly for chefs and managers.
• Casual Dining: $14–$18/hour; annual pay around $30,000–$38,000.
• Hospitality (Hotel Restaurants): $15–$22/hour; annual salaries ranging from $35,000 to $48,000, depending on the location and level of service.

Salaries by Roles

• Line Cooks: $14–$18/hour; annual average of $30,000–$37,000.
• Chefs: $18–$25/hour; annual earnings between $40,000 and $55,000.
• Waitstaff/Servers: $12–$16/hour, including tips; total annual income ranging from $28,000 to $40,000.
• Restaurant Managers: $20–$30/hour; annual salaries averaging $45,000–$65,000.

Industries and Divisions

• Corporate Chains: $13–$18/hour; annual earnings around $28,000–$40,000 for most positions.
• Independent Restaurants: $12–$20/hour; annual pay varies based on size and demand.
• Luxury Dining Establishments: $18–$30/hour; annual salaries of $40,000–$60,000 for key roles like chefs and sommeliers.

Benefits of Restaurant Jobs In USA With Visa Sponsorship

Here are the key advantages of working in the U.S. restaurant industry with visa sponsorship:

Competitive Salaries and Additional Earnings

Restaurant jobs offer competitive salaries that are often supplemented by tips and bonuses. For positions like servers and bartenders, tips from customers can significantly enhance overall earnings, especially in busy or upscale establishments. 

Managers and chefs may receive performance-based bonuses, and overtime pay is commonly available during high-demand periods, further boosting income potential.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

Visa sponsorship through restaurant jobs often provides a pathway to permanent residency in the U.S. 

Employers may sponsor work visas such as H-1B or H-2B for skilled and seasonal workers. Consistent employment and a strong performance record can lead to opportunities for securing a Green Card, allowing workers to settle in the U.S. permanently.

Career Advancement Opportunities

The restaurant industry offers clear career growth opportunities for those willing to learn and excel. Entry-level workers can advance to supervisory, managerial, or specialized roles such as chefs or culinary experts. 

The industry allows workers to develop valuable skills in customer service, team management, and culinary arts. 

Talented individuals, particularly chefs, can gain recognition, opening doors to prestigious roles in fine dining or exclusive catering services.

Access to Employee Benefits

Many restaurants, especially larger chains, provide robust benefits packages to their employees. These packages often include health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision needs. 

Full-time workers may receive paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays. Some employers offer retirement plans like 401(k) with contributions, ensuring long-term financial security.

Cultural Exchange and Networking

Working in the U.S. restaurant industry offers a unique opportunity to experience American culture while building professional connections. 

Employees often work in diverse environments, collaborating with individuals from various backgrounds. Networking in the industry can lead to higher roles or opportunities in related sectors. 

Additionally, foreign workers gain exposure to American and global cuisines, enhancing their culinary expertise.

Free or Discounted Meals

Working in restaurants gives access to free or discounted meals during shifts. This not only reduces daily living expenses but also provides employees with a better understanding of the restaurant’s menu, enabling them to recommend dishes to customers more effectively.

Housing Assistance and Relocation Support

Some restaurants, particularly those in rural areas or high-demand locations, assist foreign workers with housing and relocation. 

Seasonal or remote jobs often come with employer-provided housing, while some companies offer relocation allowances to help workers settle into their new environments smoothly.

Flexible Work Schedules

Restaurant jobs are known for their flexibility, allowing workers to tailor their schedules to suit personal or professional commitments. 

Employees can choose from various shifts, including morning, evening, or night shifts, making it easier to balance other responsibilities. Both part-time and full-time roles are available, and workers can take on additional shifts to increase their income.

Visa Compliance and Support

Employers offering visa sponsorship often guide workers through the complex immigration process. This includes assistance with visa applications, renewals, and extensions. 

Workers also receive training to ensure they maintain compliance with visa requirements while employed in the U.S., providing peace of mind and job security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is experience mandatory for restaurant jobs in the USA?

Experience is not always mandatory for entry-level restaurant jobs, such as dishwashers or food servers. However, skilled positions like chefs, line cooks, and managers typically require prior experience or specialized training.

What qualifications do I need to be a restaurant worker in the USA?

Most restaurant jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent. Additional certifications, such as food safety training or culinary arts credentials, may be necessary for specialized roles like chefs or managers.

What is the age limit for restaurant workers in the USA?

There is no specific age limit for restaurant workers in the USA. However, workers must meet the legal minimum working age, which is 16 years in most states, and some positions, such as serving alcohol, may require workers to be 21 or older.

Can foreign restaurant workers apply for permanent residency in the USA?

Yes, foreign restaurant workers can apply for permanent residency if they meet eligibility criteria. Many employers sponsor Green Cards for skilled or long-term workers who demonstrate excellent performance and commitment.

Which states in the USA pay restaurant workers the most?

States like California, New York, Massachusetts, Hawaii, and Washington offer the highest wages for restaurant workers, especially in metropolitan areas or upscale dining establishments. These states also have higher costs of living, which influences wages.