Visa Scam Uncovered: How Chef Permits Were Abused for Labor Exploitation
Dutch authorities have arrested two owners of Indian restaurant chains as part of a large investigation into suspected human trafficking and labor exploitation. The probe, supported by Europol, revealed a scheme where individuals were brought to Europe on chef permits but were allegedly forced into other roles, working excessive hours for little pay. This operation highlights a concerning pattern of abuse within certain recruitment pathways.
Network of Restaurants Across Five Dutch Cities
The investigation targets three international Indian restaurant chains that collectively operate eight establishments across five Dutch cities: Amsterdam, Utrecht, The Hague, Hilversum, and Hoofddorp. The arrests on September 18, 2026, by the Netherlands Labour Authority’s Investigative Service mark a significant step in uncovering the extent of the alleged exploitation. Authorities believe this network generated over four million euros in unlawful profits.
Exploitation Through Chef Permits
Investigators allege that the suspects brought mainly Indian nationals to Europe using more than 70 work and residence permits. These permits were often obtained through a former pathway designed to recruit specialist Asian chefs. However, many workers were reportedly assigned jobs far removed from specialist cooking, such as dishwashers, cleaners, or waiting staff. This misuse of permits allowed the alleged traffickers to profit from a system meant for skilled culinary professionals.
Grueling Work Hours and Psychological Pressure
The workers involved in the alleged scam were reportedly made to work between 60 and 80 hours per week, often across six or seven days. This is significantly more than the permitted 38 hours per week. Investigators also claim that workers received no additional pay for overtime. Beyond the demanding work schedule, Europol stated that the traffickers used threats of violence and financial penalties, as well as psychological coercion, to keep victims working and prevent them from complaining or leaving the country. Pressure was also reportedly extended to the workers’ families in India.
International Cooperation in the Investigation
This investigation is not confined to the Netherlands. Authorities from Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, and Switzerland participated in the operation, with Europol providing support. The probe examined suspected abuse at restaurants in these countries, as well as in France. The cross-border nature of the operation underscores the widespread reach of such trafficking networks and the need for international collaboration to combat them effectively.
Abolition of the Asian Catering Scheme
The alleged abuse of chef permits was linked to the former Asian Catering Scheme. This program was designed to make it easier for Dutch employers to hire specialist Asian chefs from overseas. However, inspectors had previously identified similar misuse of the scheme, leading to its abolition in 2022. The current case suggests that the restaurant chains connected to the arrested owners systematically exploited this pathway before it was shut down, raising questions about both the entry of workers and their subsequent treatment. The inquiry began under the authority of the National Office for Serious Fraud, Environmental Crime and Asset Confiscation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main accusation against the restaurant owners?
They are accused of human trafficking and labor exploitation by bringing workers to Europe on chef permits and forcing them into other jobs with long hours and little pay.
How many workers were allegedly exploited?
Investigators allege that over 70 work and residence permits were used to bring mainly Indian nationals to Europe, many of whom were forced into roles other than specialist cooking.
What kind of work conditions did the exploited workers face?
Workers reportedly had to work 60 to 80 hours per week, often seven days a week, with no overtime pay, and faced threats and psychological pressure.
What was the ‘Asian Catering Scheme’ and why is it relevant?
The Asian Catering Scheme was a former program to help hire Asian chefs. The current case suggests this pathway was systematically abused before it was abolished in 2022.
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