Student chef would like to work in Paris for a Summer; how to go about it?

Question

I'm a student chef and I'm graduating in May of 2008. I would like to work in Paris for a Summer, but have no clue as to how to begin. I know I need a passport of course, but what about a work visa? My French is passably good; enough to get around on :) My goal is to refine my technique a bit and to work for pay as an entry level employee in a restaurant that is willing to take someone who is still very much a greenhorn in this profession. Thanks!

Answer 1

I'd ask your teachers or French restaurant chefs in your town if they know of any good restaurants personally so you have some sort of connection to anyone in the industry in Paris.  Then you might even work without a visa, but not get paid for it in money, but you might get food and lodging and definitely experience.  By the time you pay and go through the hassle of a summer work visa, this route may be simpler.  If your goal is longterm, then you'll need the visa.  Another idea is to write the Cordon Bleu and ask them.

Answer 2

France still uses the system of apprenticeship to train chefs and you may find it difficult to get an entry level job that pays since you competition will be French nationals who are working for free (or next to nothing) as apprentices.

Work visa's are very difficult to obtain for Americans (I am presuming you are an American national) as unemployment in France is double what it is in the USA and unemployment amongst the young is at crisis levels.