The UK hospitality and healthcare catering sectors continue to recruit kitchen assistants and helpers in 2026, particularly in care homes, hospitals, hotels, and large catering facilities. Organizations such as care home groups regularly hire kitchen support staff to assist chefs and ensure residents receive safe and nutritious meals.
However, when it comes to visa sponsorship, it is important to understand UK immigration rules clearly. Entry-level kitchen assistant roles do not automatically qualify for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship unless they meet official eligibility and salary thresholds.
This updated guide explains everything about Kitchen Helper Jobs in the UK 2026 with Visa Sponsorship, including realistic salary expectations, visa rules, job duties, and how to apply safely.
Job Overview – Kitchen Assistant Jobs UK 2026
- Country: United Kingdom
- Industry: Hospitality / Healthcare Catering
- Job Title: Kitchen Assistant / Kitchen Helper
- Employment Type: Full-Time / Part-Time
- Experience Required: Preferred but not mandatory
- Education Required: Basic English
- Visa Sponsorship: Limited – depends on visa category and employer
Kitchen assistants support chefs and kitchen teams in preparing, cleaning, and maintaining food safety standards.
Salary of Kitchen Assistants in the UK (2026 Updated)
Kitchen assistant wages are based on UK minimum wage regulations.
Typical salary range:
- Hourly Rate: £10.50 – £13 per hour
- Annual Salary (Full-Time): £21,000 – £26,000
- Overtime: Paid according to employer policy
An hourly rate of £18 is uncommon for entry-level kitchen assistant roles unless in high-cost locations or supervisory-level roles.
Visa Sponsorship – Important Clarification (2026)
Most kitchen assistant roles do not qualify for Skilled Worker visas because:
- They are generally classified as lower-skill occupations.
- The salary often does not meet Skilled Worker thresholds.
Possible Visa Options:
- Skilled Worker Visa (Rare for kitchen assistants)
- Only if the job meets skill level and salary requirements.
- Employer must be a licensed sponsor.
- Seasonal Worker Visa
- Mainly for agricultural roles.
- Not typically applicable to care home kitchen jobs.
- Student Visa (Part-Time Work)
- International students may work part-time as kitchen assistants.
- Health and Care Worker Route
- Applies to healthcare professionals, not kitchen assistants.
Applicants should verify the employer’s sponsorship status on the official UK sponsor list.
Requirements for Kitchen Helper Jobs
Basic Requirements
- Basic English communication skills
- Ability to follow hygiene and safety standards
- Physical stamina to stand for long hours
Preferred Qualifications
- Food handling or hygiene certification
- Previous kitchen or catering experience
- Knowledge of food safety regulations
Immigration Requirements
- Valid passport
- Job offer from licensed sponsor (if applying under Skilled Worker route)
- English language requirement (for visa purposes)
Duties of a Kitchen Assistant
Kitchen assistants support daily food preparation and cleaning operations.
Food Preparation
- Washing and cutting vegetables
- Preparing ingredients for chefs
- Assisting with simple food preparation tasks
Cleaning & Hygiene
- Washing dishes and utensils
- Cleaning kitchen surfaces
- Sanitizing food preparation areas
Storage & Inventory
- Unloading deliveries
- Organizing pantry and storage areas
- Monitoring stock levels
Waste Management
- Disposing of garbage properly
- Maintaining cleanliness of waste bins
Support Tasks
- Assisting during busy meal periods
- Ensuring food is stored at correct temperatures
Benefits of Kitchen Helper Jobs in the UK
Benefits vary by employer but may include:
Competitive Hourly Pay
Aligned with UK labor laws.
Paid Leave
Minimum 28 days annual leave for full-time employees.
Pension Contributions
Workplace pension schemes.
Training Opportunities
Food hygiene and kitchen safety training.
Career Progression
Opportunity to advance to chef or supervisor roles.
Who Can Apply?
Kitchen assistant jobs may be open to:
- UK residents
- International students with work rights
- Skilled Worker visa applicants (if role qualifies)
Applicants from Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America may apply if they meet visa and work eligibility requirements.
Selection depends on qualifications and immigration compliance rather than nationality.
Important Clarifications
- Not all kitchen jobs qualify for visa sponsorship.
- Seasonal Worker visas are generally for agriculture, not catering roles.
- Salary must meet Skilled Worker visa thresholds for sponsorship eligibility.
- Always confirm sponsorship eligibility directly with employer.
How to Apply for Kitchen Assistant Jobs in UK (2026)
Step 1: Prepare a UK-Style CV
Highlight kitchen experience, hygiene training, and teamwork skills.
Step 2: Search Licensed Sponsors
Check if the employer is listed on the UK Skilled Worker sponsor register.
Step 3: Apply Through Official Channels
Search keywords such as:
- “Kitchen Assistant Jobs UK 2026”
- “Care Home Kitchen Jobs UK”
- “Hospital Kitchen Helper UK”
Step 4: Interview & Assessment
Shortlisted candidates may attend online interviews.
Step 5: Visa Application
If eligible and selected, apply for appropriate work visa.
Is Kitchen Work in the UK a Good Opportunity?
Kitchen assistant roles provide:
- Stable entry into hospitality or healthcare catering
- Opportunities for career growth
- Experience in regulated food environments
However, visa sponsorship is limited and depends on official immigration criteria.
Final Thoughts
Kitchen Helper Jobs in the UK in 2026 remain widely available in care homes, hotels, and catering facilities. While visa sponsorship is possible in specific cases, most entry-level kitchen roles do not automatically qualify under Skilled Worker routes.
Applicants who demonstrate food safety knowledge, reliability, and teamwork significantly improve their chances of securing employment.