Cleaning Jobs in UK for Foreign Workers: Opportunities, Requirements & How to Apply
Cleaning Jobs in UK for Foreign Workers: Opportunities, Requirements & How to Apply
I. Introduction
The United Kingdom, with its bustling cities and expanding service industry, offers various employment opportunities for foreign nationals.
Among the most accessible and in-demand jobs are cleaning roles. These jobs are essential for maintaining hygiene standards across residential, commercial, industrial, and healthcare sectors.
For foreign workers, cleaning jobs offer a practical entry into the UK workforce, often requiring minimal qualifications and flexible schedules.
This blog post provides a comprehensive guide for foreigners interested in taking up jobs as cleaners in the UK. It covers job types, application procedures, legal requirements, and tips for success.
II. Types of Cleaning Jobs Available in the UK
1. Domestic Cleaning
Involves cleaning private homes. Tasks include vacuuming, dusting, laundry, and general tidying. Jobs may be part-time or full-time, often arranged directly with homeowners or through agencies.
2. Commercial Cleaning
Includes cleaning offices, shops, schools, and public buildings. Work usually takes place outside of regular business hours (early mornings or evenings).
3. Industrial Cleaning
Entails cleaning factories, warehouses, and construction sites. This may involve more physically demanding tasks and the use of specialized cleaning equipment.
4. Hotel & Hospitality Cleaning
Roles include housekeeping staff in hotels, BnBs, and hostels. Responsibilities involve room cleaning, bathroom sanitation, and linen changes.
5. Healthcare Cleaning
Cleaning hospitals, clinics, and care homes. This requires strict adherence to hygiene protocols. Additional training may be required.
6. Specialized Cleaning
Includes deep cleaning services, carpet cleaning, window cleaning, and biohazard cleanup. These jobs usually pay higher but require specific training or certification.
III. Who Can Apply?
Foreign workers from both EU and non-EU countries can apply for cleaning jobs in the UK, provided they meet immigration and work eligibility criteria.
Eligible Categories:
- Nationals with a valid UK work visa
- Students with part-time work rights
- Dependents of skilled workers
- Asylum seekers with work authorization
Note: Always check your visa conditions before applying.
IV. General Requirements for Cleaning Jobs
While most cleaning jobs do not require formal education, some basic requirements and soft skills are essential:
- Physical stamina and fitness
- Basic spoken English
- Ability to follow instructions and work unsupervised
- Reliability and punctuality
- Clean criminal record (especially in healthcare and schools)
- Optional: COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) training
V. Work Visa Options for Foreign Workers
1. Skilled Worker Visa
Cleaning jobs are generally not classified under skilled occupations, so this may not be applicable unless you’re in a supervisory role.
2. Temporary Work Visa (Seasonal Worker Route)
Limited cleaning roles fall under this route, primarily for agricultural and support work.
3. Student Visa with Work Rights
Holders can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
4. Dependent Visa
Family members of skilled workers can work full-time in cleaning roles.
Avoid illegal work: Engaging in unauthorized employment can result in visa cancellation and deportation.
READ MORE: Cleaning Jobs in USA for Foreign Workers: Opportunities, Requirements & How to Apply
VI. Typical Work Conditions & Salary
- Hourly Pay: £10 – £13 per hour (London typically pays more)
- Working Hours: Flexible; may include early mornings, late nights, or weekends
- Employment Type: Both part-time and full-time available
- Perks: Paid holidays, pension schemes (for long-term employees), uniforms, and transportation allowance in some roles
Challenges:
- Repetitive tasks
- Physically demanding
- Exposure to chemicals (for industrial or healthcare cleaning)
VII. How to Find Cleaning Jobs in the UK
Online Job Portals:
- Indeed (www.indeed.co.uk)
- Reed (www.reed.co.uk)
- Totaljobs (www.totaljobs.com)
- CV-Library (www.cv-library.co.uk)
Cleaning Agencies:
- Mitie
- ISS UK
- OCS Group
- Atalian Servest
Other Avenues:
- Facebook groups for job seekers
- Local community boards
- Walk-in applications in hotels, restaurants, or malls
VIII. How to Write a Strong CV for Cleaning Jobs
Key Sections:
- Contact Information
- Objective: Simple and to the point (e.g., “Seeking a cleaning role to contribute to hygiene and safety standards”)
- Experience: Highlight any previous cleaning or maintenance jobs
- Skills: Attention to detail, time management, physical stamina
Tip: Keep your CV one page and easy to read.
IX. Interview Tips for Cleaning Jobs
Common Questions:
- Can you describe your previous experience?
- Are you comfortable working early mornings or late nights?
- How do you handle repetitive tasks?
Preparation Tips:
- Be punctual and dress neatly
- Practice basic English phrases
- Show willingness to learn and flexibility with shifts
X. Tips for Success as a Foreign Worker
- Be punctual and reliable
- Maintain good communication with supervisors
- Respect workplace rules and cultural norms
- Ask for feedback and aim to improve
- Show initiative; opportunities for promotion to team leader or supervisor may arise
XI. Best Cities in the UK for Cleaning Jobs
- London: High demand and better pay, but also higher cost of living
- Manchester: Many commercial and hospitality opportunities
- Birmingham: Growing industrial and retail cleaning sector
- Glasgow & Edinburgh: Great for hospitality and hotel cleaning
- Liverpool & Leeds: Affordable living and consistent job demand
XII. Legal Rights and Worker Protection
- National Minimum Wage: £11.44/hour (as of April 2024, for workers aged 21+)
- Work Contracts: Always sign one; read the terms carefully
- Health & Safety: Employers must provide training and protective gear
- Discrimination & Exploitation: Report to ACAS or Citizens Advice if you face unfair treatment
XIII. Real-Life Experiences and Testimonials
Maria, from the Philippines: “My first job in the UK was as a hotel cleaner in Manchester. The agency helped with everything, and I later moved into a supervisory role.”
Abdi, from Somalia: “I started in commercial cleaning in London while studying. It was hard at first, but it helped me pay rent and gain confidence.”
XIV. Final Thoughts
Cleaning jobs in the UK may not be glamorous, but they are vital, well-structured, and often serve as a stepping stone to better opportunities. For foreign workers, they offer a path to earn, learn, and adapt to life in the UK.
With the right attitude, attention to detail, and willingness to work, success is not just possible—it’s likely. Whether you’re starting fresh or transitioning between roles, cleaning jobs in the UK can be your first step towards stability and growth.
