With the demand for skilled cleaning professionals in the USA, employers are willing to provide a sponsorship visa to candidates who qualify for their jobs.
The key is focusing your search, polishing your resume, and going after companies that hire foreign workers.
You’ve got the motivation and work ethic; now you just need the right opportunity.
This article will walk you through how to land cleaning jobs in the US that provide visa sponsorship.
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How to Get Cleaning Jobs in the USA With Visa Sponsorship
Looking for cleaning jobs in the USA that offer visa sponsorship? It may take some work, but it’s possible.
Here is how to get started:
1. Search for Jobs That Offer Visa Sponsorship
To land a cleaning job with visa sponsorship, you must focus your search on positions that specifically offer that benefit.
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Start by checking sites like Indeed, Monster, and Craigslist for listings in the U.S. that advertise visa sponsorship or mention “will sponsor qualified candidates.”
Also, National companies like Jani-King, Coverall, and Jan-Pro often provide visa sponsorship for workers.
When you find openings that interest you, double-check the details to confirm they offer visa support before applying.
Some companies may say they sponsor visas but really only support certain types.
The listing should explicitly state if it includes support for work visas like the H-1B or green cards.
2. Consider Using Agencies
You can search for staffing and recruiting agencies specializing in placing international candidates.
These firms maintain relationships with companies open to sponsoring visas and can match you with suitable openings.
They handle much paperwork and help ensure the sponsorship process goes smoothly.
Using an agency significantly increases your chances of finding an employer willing to sponsor you.
3. Build Your Resume to Emphasize Relevant Experience
To land a cleaning job in the U.S. with visa sponsorship, you’ll need a resume that emphasizes any relevant experience you have.
Focus on skills and qualifications that would be useful for a cleaning role.
A. Highlight Related Skills
Do you have experience with cleaning, housekeeping, janitorial work, or hospitality? Make sure to feature any related skills on your resume prominently.
For example:
- Proficient in sanitizing and disinfecting surfaces
- Skilled at operating industrial cleaning equipment like floor buffers, carpet cleaners, and trash compactors
- Familiar with cleaning chemicals and proper handling/dilution
- Trained in following standard cleaning procedures and meeting strict hygiene standards
B. Emphasize Soft Skills
Soft skills like time management, attention to detail, physical stamina, and customer service are also crucial for cleaning roles.
You can highlight relevant soft skills on your resume, for example:
- Proven ability to work efficiently and meet tight deadlines
- Strong time management and ability to juggle multiple tasks
- Meticulous and detail-oriented with a dedication to quality and customer satisfaction
- Physically fit with the ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and stretch for extended periods
C. Include Any Certifications
If you hold professional cleaning, sanitation, or health and safety certifications, prominently feature them on your resume.
For example, certifications in:
- HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points)
- OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
- HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response)
4. Apply for the Necessary Work Visas
You must obtain the proper work visa to work as a cleaner in the USA. The process can be complicated, but following the steps lets you organize your paperwork.
A. Apply for a Temporary Work Visa
The most common visa for short-term work in the U.S. is the H-2B visa for non-agricultural workers.
As a cleaner, you would apply for an H-2B visa. You’ll need to find an employer to sponsor you, then work with them to submit the necessary application and paperwork. The visa is granted for up to 10 months, with one extension allowed.
Alternatively, you could apply for a B-1 business visitor visa, which allows you to enter the U.S. for work purposes like cleaning for up to six months.
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However, this visa does not require a salary from a U.S. source. You would need to be employed and paid by a foreign employer sending you to complete temporary work in America.
B. Consider a Permanent Residency Visa
For long-term work, consider applying for an employment-based green card for permanent residency.
As a cleaner, you would likely apply for an EB-3 visa for skilled or unskilled workers.
Your employer would need to sponsor you by obtaining a labor certification to prove no qualified U.S. workers are available for the job.
The process can take several years but would provide you with permanent residency status.
5. Be Ready to Provide References and Complete a Background Check
To land a cleaning job in the U.S. with visa sponsorship, you must provide strong references and go through a background check.
Companies want to ensure you’re a good fit before investing in the visa process.
A. References
Have a list of 2-3 references who can vouch for your cleaning work experience and skills.
Former employers, managers, or clients are best. Let your references know that a company may contact them regarding a job opportunity.
Be ready to provide their names, titles, company names, and contact information.
B. Background Check
Expect an employer to conduct a basic background check. This typically involves verifying the information on your CV or resume and checking for any criminal records.
Be upfront about any issues in your background to avoid problems later on. Some U.S. states prohibit employers from considering certain criminal records like arrests without convictions. Know your rights, but also be transparent.
A background check and reference call are standard procedures, so don’t be alarmed if asked to provide more details.
See these signs that a company is interested in hiring and sponsoring you! Some key things companies will evaluate include:
- Work eligibility – Confirming you’re allowed to work legally in the U.S.
- Identity – Verifying your name, date of birth, address, etc.
- Employment history – Checking that your work experience, dates employed, and job titles are accurate
- Education – Confirming any degrees, certifications, or training listed on your application
- Criminal records – Searching for any convictions or other criminal offenses
Conclusion
You can get a cleaning job in the USA with companies that provide visa sponsorship.
While the process may seem daunting, following the steps and advice provided increases your success chances.
With hard work and persistence, you’ll find an opportunity that provides a path to living and working in America.
The key is not to get discouraged. While experience is essential, additional certifications and training can strengthen your resume for cleaning roles in the U.S.
Also, be prepared for many paperwork, costs, and waiting periods. But by taking things step-by-step, you can achieve your goal of finding fulfilling cleaning work in America.