Salary of an OFW Chef in Cyprus

The culinary world has long served as a gateway for skilled professionals seeking international opportunities. For many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the culinary industry, Cyprus has emerged as an enticing destination, renowned for its thriving food scene and prosperous hospitality sector. In this article, we delve into the fascinating realm of OFW chefs in Cyprus, shedding light on their salaries and the factors that contribute to their earning potential.

The demand for skilled chefs has skyrocketed, leading to an influx of talented OFWs to the island nation. As they embark on this culinary adventure, a pivotal aspect that OFW chefs consider is their salary. Understanding the remuneration structure and the influencing factors behind their earnings can provide valuable insights into the financial prospects that await aspiring OFW chefs in Cyprus.

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how much ofw chef earns in cyprus

Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on the personal experiences shared by the OFW in the video below. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the OFW by commenting on their video on their accounts.

How Much Does an OFW Chef Earn in Cyprus?

The information presented in this article comes from a YouTube video from the YouTube channel of Eda Navarra. In this video, the vlogger interviews a chef working in Cyprus since 2016. If you want to watch the full video, then please click on the link below:

Here are some key facts about the salary of the chef mentioned in this article:

  • The chef’s salary is approximately 1800 euros.
  • The salary can vary depending on the chef’s rank and level of experience.
  • The equivalent amount in Philippine pesos is around 108,000 pesos, depending on the exchange rate.
  • The salary includes benefits such as free accommodation and complementary meals.
  • Some employers may provide additional support, such as covering a portion of the chef’s rent and offering amenities like WiFi and electricity.
  • The salary is deemed insufficient by the chef to bring his family to Cyprus due to the high cost of living, which includes a monthly rent of around 700 euros or higher.
  • The chef opts to work, save money, and support his family in the Philippines instead.
  • The chef has the opportunity to visit his family every nine months, with a two-way ticket provided by his employer, and enjoys a two-month vacation period.

The chef specializes in teppanyaki and showcases his culinary skills by cooking in front of customers, impressing them with tricks involving eggs and spatulas. He currently works at a hotel in Cyprus, providing an entertaining and interactive dining experience.

According to the interview, the chef’s salary is approximately 1800 euros, which is equivalent to around 108,000 pesos depending on the exchange rate. It is important to note that the salary can vary depending on the chef’s rank and level of experience. Additionally, the chef enjoys certain benefits such as free accommodation and complimentary meals. When on duty, the chef has the opportunity to enjoy lunch, breakfast, or dinner in the restaurant. Some employers may even provide additional accommodation options, with some covering a portion of the chef’s rent. In the case of the interviewee, the employer provided various amenities like WiFi, electricity, and food.

Regarding bringing family to Cyprus, the chef mentions that his family can visit the country on a visitor visa, allowing them to stay for 90 days. This arrangement helps minimize expenses and avoids potential complications with immigration. If the employer is willing, they can assist in finding a local resident who can invite the chef’s family, making the process easier. However, the chef opted not to bring his family to Cyprus due to the expenses involved and the perception that the chef’s salary alone may not be sufficient. Additionally, he considered the possibility of his child getting bored since during the summer season, the majority of people in Cyprus are tourists, and locals are relatively few in number.

Instead, the chef chooses to work, save money, and support his family in the Philippines. With a monthly rent of around 700 euros or higher, he finds it more comfortable to live in the Philippines where the cost of living aligns better with his salary. However, he does get the opportunity to visit his family regularly. Every nine months, his boss provides a two-way ticket, allowing him to return home. Moreover, he receives a generous two-month vacation period.

By sharing these insights from the interview with the OFW chef in Cyprus, we aim to provide aspiring OFW chefs with a glimpse into the financial aspects and lifestyle considerations associated with pursuing a culinary career in this Mediterranean destination. Stay tuned as we further explore the unique challenges, rewards, and opportunities that await those who venture into this enriching path.

Getting a Job Offer to Work in Cyprus

  • The chef got to Cyprus in 2016 through a contact in the Philippines who connected him with an opportunity in Cyprus.
  • The employer in Cyprus, being part of an agency, determines the specific work placement (hotel, restaurant, or resort) after securing the job offer.
  • Processing papers involves traveling to Manila from other parts of the Philippines to complete the necessary requirements.
  • Seeking the assistance of a reputable agency in the Philippines is highly recommended, especially if the agency in Cyprus has tie-ups with a Philippine agency.
  • Requirements include obtaining PDOS, OEC, medical examinations, employment certificates, and educational documents.
  • Consistency in signatures is crucial to avoid delays and discrepancies in the application process.

On how he got to Cyprus in 2016, the interviewed chef shared an interesting journey. Firstly, he had a connection in the Philippines who provided him with a contact in Cyprus that was looking for chefs. Excited about the opportunity, he promptly sent his CV to apply.

Miraculously, within just two days, he received a reply via Skype and was invited for an interview. It is worth noting that at that time, he was not aware that he would be working in a hotel. The employer in Cyprus, being part of an agency, could assign chefs to hotels, restaurants, or resorts. The specific work placement would be disclosed only after securing the job offer.

Once the interview was successfully completed, the next step for the chef was to process his papers. Since he was in Cebu, he had to travel to Manila to accomplish this. As a chef hired in Cyprus, the process of traveling to the country is not immediate. It requires following the proper procedures mandated by the Philippine government. Seeking the assistance of a reputable agency in the Philippines is highly recommended. The agency in Cyprus should ideally have tie-ups with an agency in the Philippines to facilitate the necessary documentation.

Some of the requirements include obtaining a Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS), Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), medical examinations, employment certificates, and educational documents such as diplomas.

Once the chef’s application is approved, the next step is to wait for the visa. The agency in the Philippines will contact the chef and inform them when their papers are in order and they are ready to travel. However, it is crucial to be cautious about maintaining consistent signatures on all documents. The interviewee faced a delay of two months due to a discrepancy between his passport and the signatures on his papers, emphasizing the importance of being meticulous with such details.

Here’s a summary of how you can apply to be a chef in Cyprus:

  • Research and gather information about job opportunities, visa requirements, and the cost of living in Cyprus.
  • Connect with reputable recruitment agencies that specialize in placing chefs in Cyprus for guidance and assistance.
  • Prepare a professional CV and portfolio highlighting your culinary experience, skills, and qualifications.
  • Network and seek referrals from chefs or individuals already working in Cyprus for insights and recommendations.
  • Stay updated on visa requirements and ensure you have all necessary documents for the application process.

Working in Cyprus

  • The working hours for an OFW chef in Cyprus are typically 40 hours per week, with one day off.
  • Chefs in Cyprus often work in hotels, with the interviewee having a day off every Monday.
  • The standard working hours are 8 hours per day, but overtime may be required based on the company’s needs.
  • The employment contract for chefs in Cyprus is renewed annually, requiring visa renewal as mandated by the government.
  • The job of a chef in Cyprus is relatively less heavy and less pressured compared to the culinary scene in the Philippines.
  • Geographical distance from family can be a significant challenge for OFW chefs in Cyprus.
  • Public transportation in Cyprus is expensive, and chefs need to consider transportation costs in their budget.
  • Job opportunities in hotels in Cyprus are seasonal, often operating from April or March to November.
  • It’s advisable to inquire about the hotel’s operational duration when applying to ensure a full-season employment opportunity.
  • March and April are recommended months for chefs to apply for positions in Cyprus, especially for the summer season.
  • During their day off, chefs engage in various activities such as making YouTube videos, visiting the sea, and connecting with family.
  • Balancing a healthy lifestyle and avoiding vices is emphasized during leisure time.

As a chef in Cyprus, the interviewee works 40 hours a week, with one day off per week. Employed at a hotel, he enjoys a day off every Monday, allowing for much-needed rest and relaxation. The standard working hours are 8 hours per day, but this may vary depending on the needs of the company. In busy periods, the company may require chefs to extend their working hours by one or a few more hours. It’s important to maintain flexibility to accommodate the demands of the job.

The employment contract for chefs in Cyprus is renewed on a yearly basis as mandated by the government. This means that chefs need to renew their visas annually to ensure their legal status in the country. The process of renewing the visa involves adhering to the regulations set by the government of Cyprus.

One notable aspect of being a chef in Cyprus is that the job is not as heavy compared to the culinary scene in the Philippines. The pressure in Cyprus is relatively lower, creating a more relaxed work environment for chefs. However, the geographical distance from family can be a significant challenge for OFW chefs, as they may experience homesickness and longing for their loved ones.

Transportation in Cyprus can be quite expensive, especially when relying on public transportation. Chefs need to consider transportation costs when budgeting their daily expenses.

It’s important to note that job opportunities in hotels in Cyprus are not open all year round. They are typically seasonal, with some hotels operating from April or March until November. The summer season, in particular, witnesses a surge in tourist visits, prompting hotels to hire Filipino chefs known for their hardworking nature and culinary expertise. When applying for a position, it’s advisable to inquire with the agent or employer about the hotel’s operational duration to ensure a full-season employment opportunity.

For aspiring chefs considering a career in Cyprus, it’s best to plan their arrival during the months of March and April. Arriving early allows for increased chances of securing employment, particularly during the peak summer season.

During their day off, chefs in Cyprus engage in various activities to unwind and enjoy their leisure time. The interviewee mentioned that he spends his day off creating YouTube videos, visiting the sea, and nurturing friendships. However, he emphasizes that he maintains a balanced lifestyle and avoids engaging in vices. Often, he prefers to stay at home, connecting with his family and taking the opportunity to explore local attractions such as the zoo.

In conclusion, working as an OFW chef in Cyprus presents both advantages and challenges. While the salary of an OFW chef can provide financial stability and the opportunity to gain international experience, factors such as the cost of living and being away from family should be carefully considered. By conducting thorough research, seeking reputable agencies, and maintaining open communication, aspiring chefs can navigate the intricacies of working in Cyprus and make informed decisions regarding their career path. Ultimately, the salary of an OFW chef in Cyprus, coupled with the valuable professional growth and cultural exchange opportunities, can lead to a rewarding and fulfilling culinary journey.