If you're a Cafe or Restaurant Manager seeking to migrate to Australia, recent changes to immigration policies may have left you feeling uncertain.
The removal of Cafe and Restaurant Managers from the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) means that applying for new Skills in Demand 482 visa or the Direct Entry 186 visa is no longer an option.
However, this doesn’t mean all hope is lost—there are still several viable visa pathways available for skilled hospitality professionals.
In this blog, we’ll cover the best visa options for Cafe and Restaurant Managers in Australia, helping you navigate the complexities of the Australian immigration system.
Why Were Cafe and Restaurant Managers Removed from the CSOL List?
The removal of Cafe and Restaurant Managers from the CSOL list was a major policy shift that disrupted many migration plans.
As a result, new applications for the 482 visa and the Direct Entry 186 visa are no longer available for these occupations.
This change reflects the government's focus on addressing skills shortages in other sectors, particularly in response to Australia's housing crisis, where occupations like teachers, healthcare workers, and construction professionals are given priority for state nominations.
What Are the Best Visa Options for Cafe and Restaurant Managers?
Despite these restrictions, there are still several pathways to permanent residency (PR) for Cafe and Restaurant Managers. Below are the most relevant options:
1. State Nomination: 190 and 491 Visas
You can still apply for state nomination through the 190 visa or 491 visa by submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI).
To qualify, you will need:
- A positive skills assessment as a Cafe or Restaurant Manager
- At least competent English proficiency
- At least 65 points on the points test
However, state allocations for these visas are limited, and priority is currently given to occupations addressing Australia's housing and healthcare shortages.
Waiting for an invitation for restaurant managers may not be the most reliable strategy.
2. Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) 494 visa
If a cafe or restaurant is located in a regional area, you could be eligible for the 494 visa.
This provisional visa offers a pathway to permanent residency after three years.
To be eligible, you need:
- At least three years of full-time work experience as a Cafe or Restaurant Manager
- A positive skills assessment
- At least competent English
Meeting the experience requirement can be challenging for some applicants.
3. Labour Agreements: Flexible Sponsorship Options
Labour agreements provide customised sponsorship opportunities for employers and offer concessions on visa requirements, including age, work experience, and English proficiency.
They can also provide pathways to permanent residency for applicants aged between 45 and 55.
There are three primary types of labour agreements suitable for Cafe and Restaurant Managers:
a. Restaurant (Premium Dining) Industry Labour Agreement
Businesses must have an annual revenue of at least $2 million, employ specialised staff such as chefs, waiters, and sommeliers, and provide table service.
b. DAMA (Designated Area Migration Agreements)
Available in regional areas such as South Australia, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory. DAMAs offer concessions on age and English language requirements but are not available in Brisbane, Sydney, or Melbourne.
c. Company-Specific Labour Agreements
Designed for businesses not covered by DAMAs or industry-wide agreements, these agreements can include occupations like Cafe and Restaurant Managers.
4. 186 Visa: Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream
If you already hold a 482 visa as a Cafe or Restaurant Manager, you can still apply for permanent residency under the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) 186 visa after two years of employment with your current sponsor.
You must be nominated by your current employer. If you want to change employers, your occupation must still be on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) to transfer your 482 visa to a new employer.
If your occupation is no longer listed, you’ll need to apply for PR through your current employer.
What If Your Visa Options Are Limited?
Given the recent policy shifts and growing competition for state nominations, Cafe or Restaurant Managers may need to consider alternative pathways, such as employer-sponsored visas through labour agreements or the 494 visa, exploring other eligible occupations, or consulting with an immigration specialist for personalised advice.
Stay Updated with Australian Immigration Changes
At Work Visa Lawyers, we have been providing up-to-date immigration news and guidance for over ten years.
If you're unsure about your eligibility or need advice tailored to your situation, we recommend scheduling a consultation with our experienced migration lawyers. You can also follow us on our Instagram, TikTok, Facebook or YouTube for more information.
Contact us today for expert advice on the best migration pathway for your situation.
