Yes, foreigners can apply for cleaner jobs in the United Kingdom, provided they meet visa and work permit requirements. Cleaning jobs remain one of the most accessible employment options for overseas workers, offering stable income, flexible hours, and opportunities in homes, offices, hotels, and hospitals.

The UK’s cleaning and hospitality sectors continue to face labor shortages, creating regular openings for both skilled and unskilled foreign workers.

Types of Cleaner Jobs Available

Foreign workers can apply for a variety of cleaning roles across the UK, such as:

• Domestic or residential cleaner

• Office or commercial cleaner

• Hotel or hospitality cleaner

• Healthcare or hospital cleaner

• Industrial or warehouse cleaner

Many employers offer full-time, part-time, or shift-based positions, depending on business needs.

Eligibility & Requirements

To legally work as a cleaner in the UK, foreigners must hold valid work authorization. The main routes include:

1. Skilled Worker Visa (for eligible cleaning supervisors or roles under eligible job codes)

   • Requires a UK employer with a Home Office sponsorship licence.

   • Must meet minimum salary and English language requirements.

2. Seasonal or Temporary Work Visa

   • For short-term employment (usually up to 6 months).

   • Mostly available for specific sectors such as agriculture or hospitality.

3. Student Visa (part-time work rights)

   • International students can take on cleaning or support jobs up to 20 hours per week during term time.

4. EU Settlement Scheme Workers (EU citizens with pre-settled or settled status)

   • EU nationals who lived in the UK before Brexit can continue working without additional permits.

Documents Required

When applying for a cleaner job, foreign applicants generally need:

• Valid passport and visa or residence permit

• National Insurance (NI) number (or proof of application)

• Proof of address in the UK

• CV or job application form

• References or previous employment certificates (optional)

How to Apply for Cleaner Jobs in the UK

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Search for Jobs on Trusted Platforms
   Use official and verified job sites such as:

   • GOV.UK Find a Job

   • Indeed UK

   • Reed.co.uk

   • Totaljobs

   • Recruitment agencies specializing in hospitality or facility services

2. Check Employer Sponsorship Status
   If you’re outside the UK, confirm whether the employer is a licensed sponsor on the official Home Office list.

3. Apply and Attend Interviews
   Submit your application with a clear CV and cover letter. Interviews may take place online for overseas candidates.

4. Receive Offer and Apply for Visa
   Once selected, you’ll receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) if eligible under a work visa route.

5. Travel and Start Work
   After your visa is approved, travel to the UK and complete onboarding with your employer.

Salary and Working Hours

Cleaner salaries in the UK depend on the job type, region, and experience:

The National Minimum Wage (NMW) for 2025 is £11.44 per hour for workers aged 21 and above. Overtime and night shifts may offer higher pay rates.

Working Conditions and Benefits

• Safe and regulated workplaces under UK Health & Safety standards

• Paid holidays (minimum 28 days annually for full-time workers)

• Statutory sick pay and maternity/paternity leave

• Pension contributions for long-term contracts

• Opportunity for visa extension or permanent residency (in certain cases)

Employers often provide uniforms, training, and cleaning equipment, and some offer free meals or travel allowances.

Why Work as a Cleaner in the UK

• High demand across major cities (London, Manchester, Birmingham)

• Legal protection under the UK labour law

• Opportunity to gain UK work experience

• Simple job entry requirements for foreigners

• Pathways to long-term residence for eligible visa holders

Key Tips for Applicants

• Avoid unlicensed recruitment agencies or job scams

• Always verify your work permit or sponsorship before travelling

• Keep digital copies of your contract and visa

• Learn basic English phrases for better workplace communication

• Regularly check GOV.UK for any visa or salary updates