Cleaning Jobs in the USA with Visa Sponsorship

Cleaning jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship have become one of the most sought-after employment opportunities for immigrants looking to build a stable career abroad.

The demand for janitors, housekeepers, custodians, and specialized cleaning staff continues to rise across industries, particularly in hospitality, healthcare, real estate, and corporate facilities.

According to recent U.S. labor statistics, there are more than 2.3 million cleaning jobs nationwide, with projections showing consistent growth through 2025 and beyond.

Employers in many states now seek to recruit foreign workers due to labor shortages, making this one of the best visa-sponsored job categories for international applicants.

For many immigrants, cleaning jobs offer a reliable income, access to healthcare benefits, and a direct path to securing U.S. work visas such as the H-2B visa or employer-sponsored green cards.

The average annual salary for cleaners ranges between $28,000 and $38,000, but in high-demand regions such as New York, California, and Texas, experienced cleaners can earn over $42,000 annually.

With overtime, housing allowances, and bonuses, total compensation may exceed $50,000 per year, making it an attractive opportunity for unskilled and semi-skilled workers abroad.

This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the skills required, regions offering the highest pay, realistic salary expectations, and step-by-step instructions for immigrants seeking visa-sponsored cleaning jobs in the USA.

Entry-level Skills and Experience Required

Many foreign applicants often believe that cleaning jobs in the USA do not require specific skills. While the positions may not always require advanced education, certain entry-level skills and professional experience significantly increase employability.

Employers prioritize candidates who demonstrate both technical ability and reliability, especially when sponsorship is involved. One of the most critical skills is attention to detail. Cleaners in hospitals, hotels, and commercial buildings must meet strict hygiene standards.

A small oversight can result in regulatory penalties or poor customer satisfaction, so employers are willing to pay more to workers who consistently deliver high-quality results. Similarly, time management skills are essential since many cleaning schedules are set during off-hours in offices, schools, and airports.

Experience in handling specialized cleaning equipment such as industrial vacuums, carpet extractors, and floor polishing machines can also increase pay. Employers often train workers on-site, but those with prior experience in hotel housekeeping or industrial cleaning stand out.

For example, a housekeeper with two years of prior experience in a Dubai or European hotel can expect to start at a higher pay rate in the USA, often around $15–$18 per hour instead of the minimum $12–$13 per hour.

In healthcare settings, knowledge of biohazard disposal procedures is especially valued, as improper cleaning can spread infections. This is why many hospitals require cleaners to undergo OSHA safety training. Workers with safety certifications typically earn more, sometimes reaching $20 per hour, depending on location.

English proficiency is another significant advantage. While not mandatory for all roles, being able to communicate with supervisors and report issues clearly is a requirement for many visa-sponsored jobs.

Even a basic level of English can set an applicant apart and justify higher pay compared to those without communication skills. Soft skills such as reliability, honesty, and physical stamina also play a major role.

Employers offering visa sponsorship invest heavily in recruitment, often covering airfare and housing. They prefer workers who demonstrate commitment and physical ability to handle long shifts, sometimes ranging from 35 to 45 hours per week.

Workers with excellent records may be offered contract renewals and permanent residency pathways, making this one of the most rewarding entry-level job categories for immigrants.

Regions with the Highest Payment Structures

Cleaning jobs in the USA are not paid equally across states. The salary structure depends heavily on regional demand, cost of living, and industry type. Immigrants searching for cleaning jobs with visa sponsorship should target states and cities with both high pay and high employment opportunities.

New York consistently ranks as one of the highest-paying regions for cleaners. In New York City, the average salary for janitorial staff is about $42,500 annually, with luxury hotels and commercial properties paying up to $55,000 per year.

Immigrants working in Manhattan’s hospitality sector often enjoy overtime bonuses that can push total yearly earnings beyond $60,000.

California is another high-paying region, especially in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Due to the state’s higher minimum wage laws, cleaners in California typically earn between $17 and $20 per hour.

Specialized cleaners in corporate offices or film production studios can earn $25 per hour, translating into $50,000–$60,000 annually. Employers in these regions also frequently provide visa sponsorship due to labor shortages in service roles.

Texas, while offering slightly lower hourly wages (between $14 and $17 per hour), provides higher job availability. Dallas, Houston, and Austin have booming commercial real estate and hospitality sectors where immigrant workers are in high demand.

Texas employers are also known to provide housing allowances and health benefits, increasing overall compensation packages. Other states like Massachusetts, Illinois, and Washington also pay competitively, with cleaners earning an average of $35,000–$45,000 annually.

Seattle, for example, has one of the highest base wages due to the state’s labor laws, where entry-level cleaners can start at $19 per hour. It’s also worth noting that rural regions and small towns often pay less, averaging between $24,000 and $30,000 annually.

However, these locations may provide faster visa processing and less competition for jobs, which can benefit immigrants seeking quicker employment offers.

Overall, for immigrants seeking cleaning jobs with visa sponsorship, targeting high-demand states like New York, California, and Texas offers the best balance between salary, job stability, and long-term immigration opportunities.

Salary Expectations for Cleaners

Salary expectations for cleaners in the USA vary depending on experience, location, and job type. On average, a cleaner working full-time can expect to earn between $28,000 and $38,000 annually. This translates to an hourly wage of $13–$18 per hour for entry-level roles.

However, certain industries and locations offer significantly higher pay, especially when tied to visa sponsorship. For example, hotel housekeepers in luxury chains such as Marriott or Hilton earn around $16–$20 per hour, amounting to $34,000–$42,000 annually.

In cities like Las Vegas, where tourism is booming, housekeepers with experience may earn tips in addition to their salary, pushing annual income past $45,000. Hospital cleaners and custodians tend to earn slightly more than residential cleaners due to the importance of sanitation in medical facilities.

The average salary in this sector is about $37,000 per year, but in states like New York or Massachusetts, wages can exceed $45,000. Hospitals also tend to sponsor more foreign workers, making this an excellent path for immigrants.

Corporate office cleaners also enjoy higher wages, with some companies paying up to $22 per hour for night-shift cleaning, especially in financial districts. This can add up to more than $50,000 annually, particularly with overtime pay.

Entry-level immigrant workers with no prior U.S. experience typically start at the lower end of the spectrum, around $13 per hour. However, with consistent performance and one to two years of experience, salaries usually increase by 10–15%.

Workers who stay long-term with one employer may also gain access to paid vacation, retirement contributions, and health insurance, raising the total value of the compensation package.

Immigrants should also be aware that certain employers provide additional perks like housing assistance, transportation stipends, or meal allowances. These benefits, while not always listed in the base salary, can save workers thousands of dollars annually, effectively raising net income.

For example, a cleaner in Texas earning $16 per hour with free housing could end up saving the equivalent of $8,000–$10,000 per year, making their real earnings closer to $48,000.

In summary, while salaries vary widely, immigrants who strategically target the right industries and regions can expect to earn well above the U.S. average, making cleaning jobs one of the most reliable pathways for financial stability and long-term visa sponsorship.

Companies Hiring Cleaners in the USA

Cleaning jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship are not limited to small local businesses. Many large corporations, hospitality chains, healthcare providers, and facility management companies actively recruit foreign workers due to labor shortages.

These employers are also more likely to offer visa sponsorship and long-term employment contracts, making them attractive to immigrants seeking stability.

Hospitality and Hotel Chains

Hotels form one of the biggest sources of visa-sponsored cleaning jobs. Luxury brands such as Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, and InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) regularly sponsor foreign workers to fill housekeeping and janitorial roles.

In tourist-heavy areas such as New York, Orlando, and Las Vegas, the demand for housekeepers and room attendants often exceeds the local labor supply.

For instance, Hilton housekeepers in New York City earn between $18–$21 per hour, while Marriott employees in California can expect salaries exceeding $42,000 annually with overtime.

Healthcare Facilities

Hospitals, nursing homes, and specialized clinics also employ a significant number of cleaners. Employers such as Kaiser Permanente, Cleveland Clinic, and HCA Healthcare sponsor workers for roles in sanitation and infection control.

Cleaners in healthcare environments typically earn more than those in hotels, with salaries ranging from $36,000 to $48,000 per year, depending on region and level of responsibility. Hospitals prioritize applicants with OSHA or safety training certifications, which can result in higher hourly pay.

Commercial Cleaning Companies

Specialized service providers like ABM Industries, ISS Facility Services, and Sodexo dominate the commercial cleaning industry in the USA. These companies hold large contracts with airports, universities, shopping centers, and corporate offices.

Foreign workers joining these firms often benefit from structured visa sponsorship programs since these corporations rely heavily on international recruitment.

Wages in commercial contracts range between $15–$22 per hour, translating to $32,000–$50,000 annually, depending on overtime and shift type.

Real Estate and Residential Cleaning Firms

Companies such as Molly Maid and Merry Maids sponsor foreign workers for residential cleaning services, particularly in suburban areas where demand for domestic help remains high.

These jobs often include client tips, transportation allowances, and flexible scheduling. A residential cleaner employed full-time can earn about $30,000–$40,000 annually, with opportunities for higher income in upscale neighborhoods.

In short, the best-paying and most secure visa-sponsored cleaning jobs in the USA are concentrated in large-scale industries such as hospitality, healthcare, and commercial facilities.

Immigrants targeting these employers are more likely to secure not only higher pay but also long-term sponsorship pathways.

Visa Types and Options for Cleaners

One of the most critical aspects of securing cleaning jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship is understanding the available work visa categories.

Employers are often required to follow strict immigration laws when recruiting foreign staff, and knowing the right visa type can make the application process smoother for both the employer and the worker.

H-2B Temporary Work Visa

The H-2B visa is the most common visa type used for cleaners, janitors, and housekeepers. It is designed for temporary or seasonal non-agricultural work, including hotel housekeeping and custodial services.

Employers must first obtain Department of Labor (DOL) certification, proving that there are not enough U.S. workers to fill the roles. The visa is typically valid for up to one year but can be extended to three years.

Workers on H-2B visas earn the same wages as U.S. citizens, often between $15 and $20 per hour in major cities.

J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa

Some hospitality employers use the J-1 visa to recruit foreign workers for cultural exchange and training programs. This visa is commonly offered for housekeeping and hospitality roles in hotels and resorts.

While it is usually temporary, lasting 6–12 months, it can serve as an entry point into the U.S. workforce. Cleaners under J-1 programs often earn $14–$18 per hour with housing sometimes provided.

Employer-Sponsored Green Card (EB-3 Visa)

For immigrants seeking permanent residency, the EB-3 visa is an option. Employers can sponsor cleaners under the “unskilled worker” category if they demonstrate a shortage of local workers. This pathway allows applicants to eventually apply for a U.S. green card, granting permanent work authorization.

While the process can take 1–3 years, it is one of the most stable visa options for cleaners. Salaries under EB-3 sponsorship are competitive, ranging between $32,000 and $45,000 annually, with benefits included.

H-1B Visa (Less Common)

Though primarily used for specialized professions, some facility management companies with large-scale international operations may use the H-1B visa for supervisory or managerial cleaning roles. However, this is less common compared to H-2B or EB-3 visas.

Key Point: The best visa pathway depends on whether the applicant seeks temporary work (H-2B), cultural training (J-1), or long-term residency (EB-3 green card sponsorship).

Where to Find Cleaning Jobs Opportunities

Foreign workers interested in cleaning jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship should focus on trusted job platforms, recruitment agencies, and direct employer websites. The challenge for many immigrants is separating genuine opportunities from fraudulent offers. Reliable platforms help ensure safe and legal migration.

Online Job Boards

Websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and SimplyHired frequently list visa-sponsored cleaning jobs. Employers often indicate whether they provide H-2B or EB-3 sponsorship in the job description. Cleaners searching for roles in New York, California, or Texas can filter results by location and salary, with average postings offering $14–$20 per hour.

Government Portals

The official U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) website and the SeasonalJobs.dol.gov portal list H-2B visa jobs. These are verified positions with certified employers. Most cleaning roles advertised here are tied to large hotels, resorts, or commercial cleaning firms.

Recruitment Agencies

Agencies like Alliance Abroad, M Global Services, and WorkAway International assist in connecting international applicants with U.S. employers offering visa sponsorship. Many charge service fees but provide step-by-step guidance, including visa application and relocation support.

Direct Employer Websites

Large corporations such as Hilton, ABM Industries, and Sodexo post vacancies on their official careers pages. Applying directly through these portals increases the chances of securing legitimate sponsorship opportunities and avoids third-party fraud.

Social and Community Networks

Immigrant communities in the USA often share job opportunities through local networks and community centers. Joining online forums or Facebook groups dedicated to visa-sponsored employment in the USA can provide first-hand leads.

In summary, the most reliable job opportunities come from government portals and direct employer websites, while job boards and agencies serve as additional channels. Immigrants should remain cautious and verify all job offers to ensure legitimacy.

How to Apply for Cleaning Jobs as an Immigrant in the USA

Applying for cleaning jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship requires a combination of document preparation, job search strategy, and employer communication. Successful applications often depend on following legal processes and demonstrating strong employability.

Step 1: Prepare Documents

Applicants must have a valid passport, resume (CV), and sometimes proof of prior work experience. While cleaning jobs are entry-level, having a resume that highlights reliability, work ethic, and safety training increases employer interest.

Step 2: Search and Apply

Immigrants should apply through government portals, trusted agencies, or direct employer websites. When applying, it is essential to specify willingness to relocate and request visa sponsorship support. Most employers advertise wages between $28,000 and $40,000 annually, so applicants should compare offers carefully.

Step 3: Employer Sponsorship and Certification

For H-2B visa applications, the employer must file a Labor Certification Application (LCA) with the U.S. Department of Labor. Only after this approval can the immigrant proceed with the visa interview at a U.S. embassy. EB-3 visa applicants undergo a more extensive process that may take longer but leads to permanent residency.

Step 4: Interview and Offer Letter

Applicants typically undergo a short interview where employers assess English communication skills, reliability, and willingness to work flexible shifts. Successful candidates receive an official offer letter outlining job duties, pay rate (usually $13–$20 per hour), and visa sponsorship terms.

Step 5: Visa Application

With the employer’s support, applicants then file for the appropriate visa (H-2B, J-1, or EB-3). After consular approval, workers can legally travel to the USA and begin employment.

Important Tip: Avoid agencies or recruiters who request large upfront fees for job placement. Genuine employers usually cover visa and recruitment costs, particularly under the H-2B program.

By following this structured process, immigrants increase their chances of securing stable cleaning jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship, paving the way for financial stability and possible long-term residency.