High Paying Cleaning Jobs in UK With Visa Sponsorship

The UK cleaning industry is huge. It employs over 1.4 million people and continues to grow every year.

Because of high staff turnover and the constant need for workers in hospitals, hotels, schools, offices, and care homes, the industry is estimated to create around 90,000+ new jobs annually.

What’s even more interesting is that more than 1 in 5 cleaning workers in the UK are foreign-born, showing that this sector already relies heavily on international labour.

This is why cleaning jobs in UK are often seen as one of the easiest entry points for foreigners who want to live and work in the UK. Unlike many professions that require advanced qualifications or years of training, cleaning roles are considered entry-level.

The best part? You don’t need a university degree or years of experience to qualify.

If you can communicate in basic English, follow instructions carefully, and show strong work ethic, you can easily qualify for many openings.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about landing cleaning jobs in UK with visa sponsorship, including visa types, salaries, top industries, qualifications, how to apply, and common challenges to expect.

Why Cleaning Jobs Are in High Demand in the UK

Cleaning roles are among the most stable and widely available jobs in the United Kingdom. No matter where you live — whether in busy cities like London or smaller towns — there’s always demand for cleaners.

Here are the main reasons:

1. Strict hygiene standards

After the pandemic, hospitals, schools, and businesses have adopted higher hygiene policies. More cleaners are needed daily to meet these strict requirements.

2. 24/7 industries

Airports, hotels, and healthcare facilities never close. They operate around the clock, creating cleaning shifts throughout the day and night.

3. High turnover rates

Many workers leave cleaning jobs quickly for other opportunities. This constant turnover opens up fresh vacancies for newcomers, including foreign workers.

4. Growth in tourism and hospitality

Cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh welcome millions of international visitors every year. Hotels and restaurants must hire more cleaners to meet demand.

5. Accessible entry route for migrants

Unlike other professions, cleaning doesn’t usually require advanced qualifications. This makes it one of the fastest and easiest routes for foreign workers seeking UK job sponsorship.

Responsibilities of a Cleaner in the UK

Cleaning jobs may sound simple, but the responsibilities vary depending on the industry. Still, most cleaners across the UK share common duties such as:

• General cleaning: sweeping, mopping, dusting, and vacuuming rooms or offices.
• Sanitizing surfaces: disinfecting high-touch areas like doors, restrooms, tables, and stair railings.
• Waste disposal: emptying trash bins, recycling, and handling waste safely.
• Laundry duties: washing, drying, and folding linens (especially in hotels and hospitals).
• Special equipment use: operating industrial cleaners, polishers, or floor machines.
• Reporting issues: informing supervisors about broken equipment or health and safety risks.

Types of UK Work Visa Available For Cleaning Jobs

To work in the UK as a cleaner, whether in homes, offices, hospitals, or hotels, there are several visa pathways available, especially for applicants from countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and India.

Here are the main options:

1. Skilled Worker Visa (Tier 2)

Some cleaning roles, especially in hospitals, hotels, and care facilities, are sponsored under this visa if the employer is licensed. You must have a confirmed job offer and meet minimum salary requirements. This visa allows you to live and work in the UK for up to 5 years, with a route to permanent residency.

2. Seasonal Worker Visa:

The Seasonal Worker Visa is ideal for those seeking short-term or contract cleaning jobs in the UK, particularly within hotels, resorts, or agricultural facilities. It allows foreign workers to stay and work for up to 6 months, helping employers fill temporary staffing gaps during busy periods.

3. Health and Care Worker Visa

The Health and Care Worker Visa is suitable for those employed in cleaning or support roles within hospitals, nursing homes, or healthcare centers. If your duties involve maintaining hygiene, assisting with sanitation, or supporting patient care, you may qualify. This visa also offers faster processing and reduced fees compared to standard work visas.

4. Temporary Work Visa (Charity or Government Authorised Exchange):

The Temporary Work Visa allows foreigners to take part in short-term or training-based cleaning roles with approved UK organizations. It’s often used for cultural exchange, internships, or charity placements. This visa is ideal for those gaining hands-on cleaning experience while contributing to community or institutional programs.

5. Student Visa (Part-Time Work Rights)

With a Student Visa, international students in the UK can work part-time while studying, including roles as cleaners in offices, campuses, or residential facilities. You are typically allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, providing a legal way to earn extra income.

Top Industries Hiring  Cleaners With Free Visa Sponsorship in the UK

Here’s where cleaners are most often hired, along with average salaries and sponsorship opportunities:

1. Hospitals & Healthcare Facilities

Cleaning roles in hospitals, nursing homes, and care facilities often qualify for Health and Care Worker Visa sponsorship. Duties include disinfecting wards, sanitizing surgical areas, handling medical waste, and replenishing supplies.

Many NHS trusts and private contractors sponsor international workers. With strict hygiene standards and constant staffing needs, demand is very high.

Salary: £10–£16/hour
Demand: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

2. Hotels & Hospitality

Cleaning roles in hotels and resorts often come with visa sponsorship, especially during peak seasons. Duties include cleaning guest rooms, lobbies, kitchens, and restocking supplies.

Many large hotel chains sponsor eligible cleaners. Demand is high during tourist seasons, making it a steady entry point for international workers.

Salary: £10–£16/hour
Demand: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

3. Schools & Universities

Cleaning roles in schools, colleges, and universities offer visa sponsorship for international workers. Duties include cleaning classrooms, hallways, restrooms, and staff areas, as well as maintaining hygiene standards across campus.

Some educational institutions and contractors sponsor eligible cleaners.

Salary: £10–£13/hour
Demand: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

4. Airports & Transportation Hubs

Cleaning roles at airports, train stations, and bus terminals may offer visa sponsorship for international workers. Duties include sanitizing terminals, restrooms, lounges, and waiting areas, ensuring hygiene and safety for travelers.

Major airport authorities and transportation contractors often sponsor eligible cleaners.

Salary: £10–£14/hour
Demand: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

5. Warehouses & Factories

Cleaning roles in warehouses, factories, and industrial facilities may provide visa sponsorship for international workers. Duties include sweeping floors, cleaning machinery, maintaining storage areas, and ensuring workplace hygiene and safety.

Many industrial companies and cleaning contractors sponsor eligible foreign cleaners.

Salary: £13–£16/hour
Demand: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

6. Restaurants & Food Facilities

Cleaning roles in restaurants, cafes, and food processing facilities may offer visa sponsorship for international workers. Duties include sanitizing kitchens, dining areas, equipment, and storage spaces to meet hygiene regulations.

Large restaurant chains and food service contractors often sponsor eligible cleaners.

Salary: £10–£14/hour
Demand: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Requirements For Employment as a Cleaner in the UK

To work as a cleaner in the UK with visa sponsorship, you must meet certain basic requirements and they include:

1. Valid Passport: You must have a passport from an eligible country.

2. Visa Eligibility: Depending on the role, you may need a Skilled Worker Visa, Health and Care Worker Visa, or Seasonal Worker Visa.

3. Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor: Employers must be licensed to sponsor international workers.

4. Basic English Skills: Ability to understand instructions, safety rules, and communicate effectively on the job.

5. Physical Fitness: Cleaning roles often require standing, lifting, and repetitive tasks.

6. Background Checks: Some positions, especially in healthcare or schools, may require DBS (criminal record) checks.

7. Willingness to Work Shifts: Early mornings, evenings, or weekends may be required.

How to Apply for Cleaning Jobs in UK With Free Visa Sponsorship (Step-by-Step)

If you want to work as a cleaner in the UK and get visa sponsorship, following a structured application process will increase your chances of success. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Research Eligible Employers

Look for cleaning companies, hospitals, hotels, schools, and facilities that are licensed to sponsor visas. This way, you can be sure the employer is genuine.

2. Prepare Your CV

Create an Australian/UK-style CV highlighting cleaning experience, attention to detail, teamwork, and any certifications. Keep it concise (1–2 pages).

3. Apply Online or Through Recruitment Agencies

Use job portals like Indeed UK, Totaljobs, or Reed.co.uk. Specialized recruitment agencies for healthcare, hospitality, and industrial cleaning often help with sponsorship applications.

4. Attend Interviews

Employers may conduct online or in-person interviews. Highlight reliability, physical fitness, and the ability to follow safety guidelines.

5. Receive Job Offer & Employer Sponsorship

Once hired, your employer issues a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to apply for the relevant visa.

6. Apply for a Visa

Submit your visa application online, provide supporting documents, and await approval before traveling to the UK.

FAQs About Cleaning Jobs in UK With Free Visa Sponsorship

1. Can foreigners really get cleaning jobs in UK with free visa sponsorship?
Yes, many UK employers sponsor cleaners, especially in healthcare, hospitality, and care facilities.

2. Do I need a degree to qualify?
No. Most cleaning jobs are entry-level and only require basic English and reliability.

3. Which visa is used for cleaning jobs in the UK?
Most cleaners are hired under the Skilled Worker visa or Temporary Worker visa.

4. How much do cleaners earn in the UK?
Cleaners typically earn £9.50–£14 per hour, depending on the employer and location.

5. Which UK cities hire the most foreign cleaners?
London, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, and Edinburgh have the highest demand.

6. Do employers provide free accommodation?
Some hotels, hospitals, and care homes provide staff housing, but not all do.

7. Can cleaning jobs in the UK lead to permanent residency?
Yes. If you work under a Skilled Worker visa, you may apply for settlement after 5 years.

8. How can I avoid job scams?
Apply only through official job boards, licensed UK sponsors, or trusted recruitment agencies.

9. Do cleaning jobs require IELTS or English tests?
Not always, but basic English is needed for safety instructions and communication.

10. Can I bring my family with me if I get sponsored?
Yes. Skilled Worker visas allow dependents, but you must show proof of income to support them.

11. Are part-time cleaning jobs eligible for sponsorship?
No. Only full-time roles qualify for visa sponsorship in the UK.

12. How long does visa processing take once I’m hired?
It usually takes 3–8 weeks, depending on your country and the UK embassy workload.

13. Do recruitment agencies really help with sponsorship?
Yes, some agencies specialize in placing foreign workers in UK cleaning roles with visa sponsorship.

14. Are there age limits for applying?
No strict age limit, but most employers prefer applicants between 21–50 years old.

15. Is free visa sponsorship truly free?
Yes, genuine employers cover the sponsorship process. Be careful of recruiters asking for large upfront payments.

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