Is the Restaurant Industry Strong for E Visas? A Visa and Job Guide for Those Who Want to Work in the U.S.

When people think about working in the U.S., one of the biggest concerns is often the work visa.

The H-1B visa is one of the most well-known employment visas, but it has become increasingly difficult to plan around. Starting with the FY 2027 registration period, the H-1B selection process has moved toward a weighted selection system based on wage level, meaning higher-wage positions have a greater chance of being selected. In addition, a presidential proclamation introduced an additional $100,000 fee for certain new H-1B petitions filed from outside the U.S.

Because of these uncertainties, many job seekers feel discouraged before they even apply.

One industry that is often considered more visa-friendly is the restaurant industry, especially Japanese restaurants in the U.S. For specialized positions such as Head Chef, Sushi Chef, and Kitchen Manager, some Japanese restaurant companies may be able to use the E-2 visa route.

Japan has been an E-2 treaty country since 1953. This means that Japanese-owned businesses in the U.S., including restaurants, may have a structure that allows them to sponsor certain qualified Japanese employees with specialized skills.

In this article, we will explain why the restaurant industry is often considered strong for visa opportunities, common concerns about work visas, hiring and visa trends in 2026, the types of candidates who are valued in the restaurant industry, and three current restaurant job opportunities.

Why the Restaurant Industry Is Often Considered Strong for Visa Opportunities

H-1B Has Become More Competitive and Less Predictable

The H-1B visa is a common employment visa for specialty occupations, but it is subject to an annual cap and selection process.

In recent years, the number of registrations has often exceeded the available visa cap. This means that even qualified candidates and employers may not be selected.

Starting with the FY 2027 registration period, the selection process has shifted toward a wage-level weighted system. Under this system, positions with higher wage levels receive more weight in the selection process.

For example, a Level 1 wage position may receive one entry, while a Level 4 wage position may receive four. This means that higher-paid positions may have a better chance of selection.

Many restaurant positions may be categorized at lower wage levels compared with highly paid professional roles in fields such as technology, finance, or engineering. Because of this, the H-1B route may become more difficult to use for many restaurant positions.

Cost Uncertainty Is Also a Major Issue for H-1B

In addition to the selection process, cost has become another concern.

A presidential proclamation introduced an additional $100,000 fee for certain new H-1B petitions filed from outside the U.S.

Although this fee has been challenged in court, the situation remains uncertain. For both employers and job seekers, this makes the H-1B route harder to plan around.

As a result, many companies are reviewing which visa options are realistic for each position.

The E-2 Visa Does Not Have an Annual Cap or Lottery

Unlike H-1B, the E-2 visa does not have an annual cap or lottery.

The E-2 visa is available to nationals of treaty countries who work for a qualifying business owned by nationals of the same treaty country.

In the case of Japanese-owned businesses in the U.S., Japanese nationals may be considered for E-2 employment if the company and position meet the required conditions.

For employees, the role generally needs to involve executive, supervisory, or essential skills. For restaurant positions, this may be relevant for specialized roles such as:

• Head Chef
• Sushi Chef
• Executive Chef
• Kitchen Manager
• Restaurant Manager
• Operations Manager

The E-2 visa can also be renewed as long as the applicant and employer continue to meet the requirements.

Japanese Restaurants May Have a Structure That Supports E-2 Hiring

Japanese-owned restaurants in the U.S. may be able to qualify as E-2 businesses if they meet the necessary ownership and investment requirements.

For specialized Japanese food positions, such as Sushi Chef or Japanese cuisine Head Chef, the candidate’s professional experience and technical skills may be easier to explain as essential skills.

This is one reason why the restaurant industry, especially Japanese restaurants, is sometimes considered more visa-friendly than other industries.

However, it is important to understand that not every Japanese restaurant can sponsor an E-2 visa. Not every position qualifies either.

Whether visa support is possible depends on the company, ownership structure, business status, role, candidate background, and immigration requirements.

There Are Also Many Restaurant Job Opportunities

Another reason the restaurant industry is attractive is that there are many job openings.

The accommodation and food services industry continues to have a relatively high job openings rate compared with many other sectors.

This means that job seekers may have more opportunities to find employers who are hiring, including employers that may be open to discussing visa support.

Common Concerns About Work Visas

Many people who want to work at Japanese restaurants in the U.S. have similar concerns about visas.

I Do Not Know Whether I Qualify for an E-2 Visa

The E-2 visa is available only to nationals of treaty countries.

For Japanese nationals with experience in Japanese cuisine, sushi, kitchen operations, or restaurant management, the E-2 route may be one possible option to explore.

However, eligibility depends on the employer, position, and individual background. It is important to confirm the details for each job opportunity.

I Do Not Know Whether the Company Offers Visa Support

Visa support varies by employer and by position.

Some employers may support the visa process and cover related costs. Others may only consider candidates who already have work authorization in the U.S.

Before applying or during the interview process, it is important to ask:

• Does the company offer visa support?
• Which visa type does the company usually support?
• Who pays the legal and filing fees?
• Is visa support available immediately, or only after a trial period?
• Has the company sponsored similar roles before?

There Are Too Many Visa Types and I Do Not Understand the Difference

There are several types of U.S. work visas, including H-1B, E-2, L-1, O-1, and others.

Each visa has different requirements, timelines, costs, and risks.

For restaurant job seekers, it is important to understand which route is realistic based on your nationality, work history, skill level, employer, and long-term plans.

Working with a recruiting partner who understands both hiring needs and visa-related concerns can make the process easier to navigate.

I Am Not Confident in My English

The English level required depends on the position.

For guest-facing roles or management roles, English communication may be important. However, for some Japanese restaurant roles, employers may value Japanese cuisine experience, technical skill, reliability, and work ethic in addition to English ability.

Japanese communication skills and understanding of Japanese work culture may also be valued, especially when the role involves working with Japanese management, Japanese-speaking staff, or Japanese headquarters.

I Am Not Sure If I Can Apply Without Management Experience

Some job seekers assume that Chef, Manager, or Manager Candidate roles require many years of management experience.

In reality, some positions are open to candidates who have strong hands-on restaurant experience and want to grow into leadership roles.

For example, a person with solid kitchen experience may be considered for a Kitchen Manager or Head Chef candidate position, even if they have not held a formal management title before.

How Restaurant Hiring and Visa Trends Are Changing in 2026

The E-2 Route Is Becoming More Important as H-1B Becomes Less Predictable

Because of changes to the H-1B selection process and uncertainty around costs, many employers are reconsidering their visa strategies.

For Japanese restaurant companies that may already be eligible to use the E-2 route, the E-2 visa can be a more predictable option than H-1B in certain cases.

This does not mean E-2 is simple or guaranteed. However, compared with a lottery-based system, the lack of an annual cap can make planning easier for employers and job seekers.

Employers Are Looking for People Who Can Stay and Grow

The E-2 visa is often used with the expectation of renewal and long-term employment.

Because of this, companies are not only looking for people who can fill a role immediately. They are also looking for candidates who can stay, grow, and contribute to the business over time.

For job seekers, it is important to communicate your long-term motivation clearly.

During interviews, be ready to explain:

• Why you want to work in the U.S.
• Why you are interested in the restaurant industry
• What kind of restaurant career you want to build
• How your experience can help the employer
• Why you are interested in working long term

Local Hiring Is Also Becoming More Important

Because of rising costs and currency fluctuations, some Japanese companies are placing more importance on local hiring in the U.S.

For candidates who already live in the U.S. and have valid work authorization, this can create additional opportunities.

At the same time, Japanese nationals outside the U.S. may still find opportunities if they have specialized restaurant experience and the employer is open to visa support.

Three Strengths Valued in the Restaurant Industry

Strength 1: Specialized Skills and Hands-On Experience

For visa-supported restaurant roles, practical skills are very important.

Experience as a Head Chef, Sushi Chef, Kitchen Manager, or experienced cook can help show that you have specialized skills.

In particular, experience in Japanese cuisine, sushi preparation, kitchen operations, food quality control, training, and menu development can be valuable.

From a visa perspective, specialized cooking skills or management experience may be easier to explain than language ability alone.

It is also important to note that knowledge of a foreign language or culture alone is generally not enough to qualify as an essential employee for E-2 purposes. The stronger point is usually your specialized professional skill, such as cooking technique, sushi expertise, or restaurant management ability.

Strength 2: Japanese Communication and Cultural Understanding

Japanese language ability and understanding of Japanese workplace culture may not be the core visa requirement, but they can still be important for hiring.

Japanese restaurant companies may value candidates who understand:

• Teamwork
• Reporting and communication
• Japanese service standards
• Attention to detail
• Cleanliness and consistency
• Respect for food quality and presentation

If you can communicate with both Japanese and local teams, you may be especially valuable in a U.S. restaurant environment.

Strength 3: Long-Term Motivation

Visa support is a significant commitment for employers.

Because of this, companies often want to hire people who are serious about staying and growing with the business.

Your motivation matters.

Before applying, think about:

• Why do you want to work in the U.S.?
• Why do you want to work in Japanese restaurants?
• What kind of career do you want to build?
• Are you interested in becoming a leader, trainer, chef, or manager?
• How can you contribute to the company long term?

Being able to explain these points clearly can help employers feel more confident about supporting you.

Current Restaurant Job Opportunities

Visa support varies by position and employer. Even if visa support is not listed, details may need to be confirmed individually during the application process.

Kitchen Manager / Head Chef Candidate | Northern California, Silicon Valley Area

This position is with a Japanese restaurant company that operates more than 20 locations across the U.S.

It is a role where candidates can use their experience as a chef or kitchen leader in Japan. Even candidates who have completed kitchen training or have strong cooking experience may be able to use their skills.

The general target profile includes at least four years of full-time experience at a Japanese restaurant and professional-level English.

The benefits include a visa support program where the company covers the visa process and related costs.

▶ View Job Details

Restaurant Manager / Store Manager Candidate | Northern California, Silicon Valley Area

This position is also with a Japanese restaurant company that operates more than 20 locations across the U.S.

Even if you have not worked as a store manager before, this role may allow you to gain hands-on experience and grow into a future store leadership position.

The general target profile includes at least three years of Japanese restaurant experience, leadership ability, and strong communication skills.

▶ View Job Details

Executive Sushi Chef | San Francisco

This is a leadership role for the sushi department at a restaurant group that operates a high-end sushi brand.

The role involves maintaining Michelin-level quality, managing restaurant operations, developing menus, and training team members.

The general target profile includes at least four years of sushi chef experience, Head Chef or Executive Chef experience, and Japanese-English bilingual ability.

▶ View Job Details

What to Check Before Applying

The restaurant industry can offer many opportunities, but job seekers should still choose carefully.

Food service can have high turnover, so finding a workplace where you can stay and grow is especially important.

Confirm the Scope of Visa Support

If a job posting says “visa support available,” do not stop there.

You should confirm the details, such as:

• Which visa type is supported?
• Does the company cover legal fees?
• Does the company cover filing fees?
• When does the visa process start?
• Has the company sponsored similar employees before?
• What happens if the visa is delayed or denied?

Understanding these details can help prevent misunderstandings later.

Check Whether the Job Description Matches the Actual Work

Before accepting an offer, make sure the job duties, schedule, pay, and responsibilities match what was described in the job posting.

Restaurant roles can vary widely depending on the company, location, team size, and business model.

Ask what a typical day looks like and what the company expects during the first few months.

Check the Workplace Culture and Team Environment

In Japanese restaurants, teamwork and communication can be especially important.

Try to understand how Japanese staff, local staff, managers, and ownership communicate with each other.

A workplace that fits your communication style and values can make it easier to stay long term.

Ask About Career Path and Visa Renewal Support

If you are considering a visa-supported role, it is important to think beyond the first visa approval.

Ask about:

• Career path after joining
• Training and promotion opportunities
• Support for visa renewal
• Long-term role expectations
• How the company evaluates performance

Asking these questions can show that you are serious about building a long-term career.

How HRAIT Can Support Your Restaurant Job Search

If you are unsure whether you may qualify for visa support, or if you do not know which jobs are more likely to support visas, having a recruiting partner can make the process easier.

HRAIT supports job seekers who want to work with Japanese companies in the U.S., including Japanese restaurants.

HRAIT can help with:

• Introducing Japanese restaurant jobs that match your experience and preferences
• Helping you understand the visa support details for each job opportunity
• Organizing your strengths and career goals through consultation
• Supporting resume and interview preparation
• Providing guidance on salary, work conditions, and employment type
• Matching you with workplaces where you can work long term

HRAIT does more than introduce job openings.

We support your job search as a career partner and help you find a workplace that fits your experience, goals, and long-term career plans.

Find Jobs That Match You with HRAIT IQ+

HRAIT’s AI-powered career matching tool, HRAIT IQ+, has already been used by more than 8,000 registered users.

By registering, you can access more job opportunities at Japanese companies in the U.S., including restaurant jobs and other bilingual roles.

HRAIT IQ+ helps connect your experience, skills, and preferences with job opportunities that may fit your background.

Even if you are only starting to look for visa-supported restaurant jobs, you can register and receive job information that may match your experience, skills, and goals.

Summary: Finding the Right Restaurant Job and Visa-Supportive Employer

The restaurant industry, especially Japanese restaurants in the U.S., can be a strong option for job seekers who are thinking about both work opportunities and visa possibilities.

Because Japanese-owned restaurants may be able to use the E-2 visa route, specialized candidates such as chefs, sushi chefs, and restaurant managers may have more realistic options than they would through the H-1B route.

At the same time, visa support is not automatic. It depends on the company, position, candidate background, and immigration requirements.

The most important step is to organize your experience, understand your possible visa options, and choose an employer where you can work and grow long term.

• The H-1B route has become harder to plan around because of wage-weighted selection and cost uncertainty.
• The E-2 visa does not have an annual cap or lottery, and it may be relevant for certain Japanese-owned businesses in the U.S.
• Japan has been an E-2 treaty country since 1953.
• For visa purposes, specialized cooking skills and management experience are stronger points than language or cultural knowledge alone.
• Japanese language ability and cultural understanding may still be strong advantages in the employer’s hiring decision.
• Before applying, confirm the exact scope of visa support, including visa type, timing, process, and cost coverage.
• HRAIT can support job seekers who are considering both restaurant jobs and visa-related questions.
• By registering with HRAIT IQ+, you can receive job information that better matches your experience, skills, and preferences.

If you are considering a restaurant career in the U.S. and want to explore visa-supported job opportunities, HRAIT can help you find positions that match your experience and goals.

▼ For job search consultation and more details about HRAIT, please click here.

▶ Register with HRAIT and explore job opportunities

References

• Job openings rate 2.3 percent in wholesale trade, 5.5 percent in accommodation and food services｜U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
• USCIS Implements the H-1B Proclamation $100,000 Fee｜American Immigration Council
• Court Strikes Down $100,000 H-1B Entry Fee, But Fee Still Applies Pending Appeal｜Vorys
• FY 2027 H-1B Cap Lottery: What Employers Need to Know About the Weighted Lottery and $100,000 Fee｜Dorsey
• E-2 Treaty Investors｜USCIS
• Treaty Countries｜U.S. Department of State
• 9 FAM 402.9 Treaty Traders, Investors, and Specialty Occupations｜U.S. Department of State
• 2026 State of the Restaurant Industry｜National Restaurant Association