It’s a goal for many individuals and immigrants from all over the world to migrate for work to the United States. The cleaning industry offers lots of job opportunities, mainly for immigrants, due to its low barriers to entry and high and steady demands.
With a suitable approach, skills, and employer sponsorship, covering a table and a well-paying job in the United States can be achieved. This article offers you essential guides & insights into searching for cleaning jobs, visa sponsorship opportunities, salaries, and tips for success as an immigrant employee.
Why You Should Consider Cleaning Jobs in the USA
The cleaning industry in the U.S. is rising, with thousands of job openings available in homes, offices, hotels, hospitals, and commercial buildings. Here’s why it’s a great option for immigrant & international workers:
- High Demand—Cleaning jobs are always in demand across the country.
- Easy Entry—Most positions do not require formal education or experience.
- Visa Sponsorship Possibilities—Some employers sponsor work visas for skilled and reliable workers.
- Opportunities for Growth—Workers can advance to supervisory roles or start their own cleaning businesses.
Types of Cleaning Jobs Available for Immigrants
There are different types of cleaning jobs available, depending on experience and work preferences; they are as detailed below:
Residential Cleaning (Housekeeping)
- Cleaning private homes and apartments
- Average Salary: $30,000–$45,000 per year
- Potential Employers: Cleaning agencies, private homeowners, rental property managers
Commercial Cleaning (Office & Industrial Cleaning)
- Cleaning offices, warehouses, and public spaces
- Average Salary: $35,000–$50,000 per year
- Potential Employers: Corporate offices, janitorial service providers, government facilities
Hotel & Hospitality Cleaning
- Housekeeping roles in hotels, resorts, and motels
- Average Salary: $30,000–$40,000 per year
- Potential Employers: Hotels, resorts, Airbnb property managers
Healthcare Cleaning (Hospital & Nursing Home Cleaning)
- Sanitizing medical facilities, clinics, and nursing homes
- Average Salary: $35,000–$55,000 per year
- Potential Employers: Hospitals, nursing homes, healthcare facilities
Visa Sponsorship for Cleaning Jobs in the U.S.
While many cleaning jobs do not require advanced skills, some employers offer visa sponsorship for foreign workers. The most common visa options include
H-2B Visa (Temporary Non-Agricultural Worker Visa)
- Suitable for temporary cleaning positions
- Often used by hotels, resorts, and cleaning companies during peak seasons
EB-3 Visa (Skilled & Unskilled Worker Visa)
- Ideal for full-time cleaning jobs with a U.S. employer
- Requires employer sponsorship and labor certification
TN Visa (For Canadian & Mexican Workers)
- Available under the USMCA trade agreement
- Some cleaning and janitorial management roles qualify
How You Can Find Employers Offering Sponsorship:
- Apply to large cleaning companies with a history of hiring immigrants positions.
- Contact U.S. staffing agencies specializing in immigrant workers.
Cleaner Jobs & Responsibilities in the USA
Cleaners perform a range of essential functions, which are as follows:
Residential Cleaners
- Clean private homes, apartments, etc.
- Tasks involve sweeping, mopping, dusting, making beds, washing dishes, etc.
- Provide specialized services like carpet cleaning
Office/Commercial Cleaners
- Clean office buildings, retail stores, hotels, hospitals, etc.
- Remove trash, sanitize bathrooms, vacuum, polish floors, replenish supplies
- Ensure safety and cleanliness standards are met
Industrial Cleaners
- Clean factories, power plants, production facilities
- Remove hazardous materials and chemical residues
- Sanitize machinery and equipment
- May require protective clothing
Window Cleaners
- Clean interior and exterior windows and glass surfaces of tall buildings
- Use specialized tools and equipment for high-rise access
- Ensure glass surfaces are streak-free and crystal clear
Crime Scene Cleaners
- Clean sites after traumatic incidents or deaths
- Follow biohazard protocols to sanitize sites
- Remove blood, human tissue, and hazardous waste
Income Potential and Benefits
Here are typical cleaner earning potentials in the US:
- Average Annual Salary: $27,620
- Average Hourly Wage: $13.27
- Overtime Rate: $19.90 (time and a half for over 40 hours/week)
- Earning Potential with Experience: $40,000+ per year
Higher incomes in states/metro areas with higher costs of living. Benefits may include medical insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. Independent contractors set own rates.
Best U.S. Cities and States for Cleaning Jobs 2025
Cleaning professionals are in steady demand across the United States, especially in cities and states where hospitality, healthcare, and commercial industries are thriving. Some locations offer better wages, job availability, and more opportunities for career growth.
Top U.S. Cities for Cleaning Jobs
1. New York City, NY: High demand in both residential and commercial sectors due to the city’s size and constant activity.
2. Los Angeles, CA: Abundant roles in hotels, offices, and event venues with many part-time and full-time positions.
3. Chicago, IL: Strong need for cleaners in office buildings, hotels, and corporate facilities.
4. Houston, TX: A growing city with increasing demand for cleaners in industrial spaces and healthcare environments.
5. Miami, FL: tourism-driven economy fuels cleaning job availability in resorts, vacation rentals, and cruise services.
Top U.S. States for Cleaning Jobs
These states combine strong job markets for cleaners with competitive wages and/or manageable living costs:
- California – Offers high pay but also comes with a higher cost of living.
- Texas—Known for steady job growth and more affordable housing.
- Florida — A tourism hub that consistently needs cleaning staff in hotels and entertainment venues.
- New York—Offers good salaries and frequent hiring in urban areas.
- Nevada—Las Vegas and other cities provide job opportunities in resorts, casinos, and large hotels.
How Immigrants Can Apply for Cleaning Jobs in the U.S.
If you’re an immigrant looking to start or continue a cleaning career in the U.S., here are the key steps:
Step 1: Create a Strong Resume
- Include past cleaning experience (homes, offices, hotels, etc.)
- Highlight skills like attention to detail, time efficiency, and teamwork.
- Mention any certifications (OSHA training, safety courses, etc.)
Click on the link above, access the site, and follow the next step below.
Step 3: Apply to Employers Who Sponsor Work Visas
Some large organizations that may provide visa sponsorship include:
- Hotel Chains: Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt
- Commercial Cleaning Services: ABM Industries, ISS Facility Services
- Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and nursing homes often need janitorial staff
Step 4: Interview and Receive a Job Offer
- Be ready to discuss your schedule, cleaning experience, and work ethic.
- Emphasize reliability, speed, and your willingness to learn.
Step 5: Obtain the Appropriate U.S. Work Visa
Once you’ve secured a sponsoring employer, follow the steps for applying for a U.S. work visa (like the H-2B visa for temporary non-agricultural workers).
Conclusion
The U.S. cleaning industry provides immigrants with reliable employment, competitive pay, and the potential for long-term career development.
With the right approach, targeting visa-sponsoring employers, crafting a strong application, and showcasing a solid work ethic, immigrants can take meaningful steps toward building a stable and rewarding life in the United States.
Interested in cleaning jobs with visa sponsorship? Drop a comment below, and we’ll connect you with helpful resources and job listings!
