Are you a cleaner looking for a career opportunity abroad for better future ? Cleaning jobs in Canada are in high demand due to the growing hospitality, healthcare, and commercial sectors. These roles offer stability, competitive wages, and visa sponsorship opportunities for foreign workers.
With pathways to permanent residency and access to Canada’s vibrant economy, securing a cleaning job could be your gateway to building a prosperous future abroad.
This guide details the eligibility for cleaning positions in Canada, highlights the top employers offering visa sponsorship, and provides easy-to-follow application links to kickstart your career today.
Eligibility and Requirements
Here’s a breakdown of the key criteria and requirements:
- Work Experience and Skills: Previous work experience in cleaning, janitorial services, or a similar field is often preferred. Many employers require at least 6 months to 1 year of experience, especially for specialized roles in healthcare or hospitality.
- Language Proficiency: Some employers may require a basic level of proficiency in English or French to communicate with colleagues and follow safety instructions. Language proficiency may be assessed through tests like IELTS or CELPIP for English or TEF for French.
- Valid Job Offer: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer is essential. The employer must provide a detailed job description, and in most cases, submit a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to confirm the need for foreign workers.
- Work Permit and Visa Sponsorship: To work in Canada as a foreign cleaner, a work permit and visa sponsorship are required. Employers must submit an LMIA application, which, once approved, allows workers to apply for a work visa.
- Age Requirement: Applicants generally need to be at least 18 years old. There is no upper age limit, but older applicants may find it more difficult to obtain a work permit in some cases.
- Educational Requirements: Cleaning jobs usually do not require advanced education. A high school diploma or equivalent is typically sufficient, but specialized roles, such as healthcare cleaning, may require additional certifications or training.
- Health and Safety Standards: Cleaners in Canada must adhere to strict health and safety standards. Employers may require workers to undergo health and safety training, especially for roles in hospitals, hotels, or industrial settings.
- Criminal Background Check: Some employers may require a criminal background check, particularly for jobs in sensitive environments like hospitals, schools, or childcare centers.
- Financial Stability and Proof of Funds: While not always required, Canadian immigration authorities may request proof that the applicant has enough funds to support themselves upon arrival, particularly if applying for a work permit without an LMIA.
- Additional Certifications: Some jobs, especially in specialized cleaning, may require certifications such as WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System), first aid and CPR, and hazardous materials handling.
How to Find and Apply for Cleaning Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship as a Foreigner
Finding and applying for cleaning jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship involves several steps.
Step 1: Research Available Cleaning Jobs in Canada
You can start by:
- Visit Canadian job boards like Indeed, Job Bank Canada, and Workopolis, which list cleaning positions that offer visa sponsorship.
- Explore specialized job portals and recruitment agencies that focus on foreign workers, such as Talent Egg or Immigrate to Canada.
- Check with companies in the hospitality, healthcare, and commercial sectors offering cleaning positions with sponsorship for foreign workers.
- Network on platforms like LinkedIn to connect with potential employers and recruiters.
Step 2: Verify Visa Sponsorship and LMIA Requirements
Once you find a cleaning job that interests you, verify that the employer offers visa sponsorship.
Most employers must apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to hire foreign workers. The LMIA shows there are no Canadian workers available for the role. Verify if the employer has already obtained the LMIA or will apply for one on your behalf.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Prepare the necessary documents for your visa application:
- Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in cleaning, especially if you have specialized skills (e.g., healthcare or industrial cleaning).
- Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that expresses your interest in working in Canada and why you’re the right candidate for the position.
- References: Include professional references from previous employers or supervisors who can vouch for your cleaning experience and work ethic.
- Language Proficiency: If required, take an English or French language proficiency test (like IELTS or CELPIP for English) and submit your results.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Submit your application as instructed by the employer:
- Apply directly through job portals or the employer’s website, uploading your resume and cover letter.
- If applying through a recruitment agency, follow their instructions for submitting your application and documentation.
- Ensure you include all necessary documents, such as proof of experience, language test scores (if applicable), and your job offer.
Step 5: Await Response and Prepare for an Interview
After applying, wait for the employer to review your application. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview. Be prepared to discuss your cleaning experience, availability, and why you want to work in Canada.
Some employers may require a background check or additional documents, like medical records or proof of funds.
Step 6: Secure a Work Permit
You can apply for a work permit to legally work in Canada once you receive a job offer and your LMIA is approved. The work permit application can be submitted online or at a Canadian embassy or consulate in your country.
Submit the required documents, including your job offer, LMIA approval, passport, and proof of financial stability. Once approved, you’ll receive your work visa, allowing you to work in Canada.
Step 7: Prepare for Relocation
After receiving your work visa, it’s time to prepare for your move:
- Arrange your accommodation, especially if you are moving to a city where the employer offers housing or travel allowances.
- Familiarize yourself with Canadian culture, workplace norms, and local living conditions to ease your transition.
- Consider purchasing health insurance and setting up your finances in Canada before you arrive.
Step 8: Arrive in Canada and Start Your Job
Once you arrive in Canada:
- Complete any additional paperwork required by your employer.
- Attend an orientation or training session, especially if you are working in specialized environments like healthcare or industrial settings.
- Start your new job and integrate into your role as a cleaner, adhering to safety standards and job expectations.
The Average Salary for Cleaning Jobs in Canada for Foreigners
Job Category
- Light-Duty Cleaners: These workers are typically responsible for cleaning offices, hotels, and retail spaces. The average salary is $30,000–$38,000/year and the hourly wage is $15–$18/hour.
- Housekeepers and Home Care Cleaners: Focused on residential cleaning tasks, including laundry and home organization. The average salary is $24,000–$35,000/year and the hourly wage is $14–$16/hour.
- Executive Housekeepers: Manage cleaning teams in hotels, resorts, and healthcare facilities. The average salary is $35,000–$50,000/year depending on location and level of responsibility.
- Industrial Cleaners: Handle specialized tasks in factories or warehouses, such as hazardous material cleanup. The average Salary is $40,000–$55,000/year, reflecting the technical nature of the work.
Benefits of Cleaning Jobs in Canada for foreigners
Cleaning jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship offer numerous advantages for foreign workers looking to start or continue their careers abroad.
Financial Stability and Competitive Pay
Visa Sponsorship and Immigration Support
Access to Comprehensive Benefits.
Minimal Entry Requirements
Career Growth Opportunities
Stability and Job Security
Accommodation and Relocation Support
Integration into Canadian Society.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Top Janitorial Services Companies and Agencies Offering Cleaning Jobs in Canada for foreigners
Bee-Clean Building Maintenance
One of Canada’s largest janitorial services companies, Bee-Clean operates nationwide and hires cleaners for various environments, including offices, healthcare facilities, and industrial spaces.
This company supports the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) for foreign applicants. Eligibility requirements include prior cleaning experience (not mandatory) and basic English communication skills.
You can visit their careers page to apply and explore job openings.
GDI Integrated Facility Services
A leader in cleaning, maintenance, and facility management, GDI frequently recruits for cleaning roles in commercial, residential, and industrial settings. They participate in federal and provincial programs to bring in foreign workers for hard-to-fill roles.
You can visit Visit their official careers page for listings and application instructions.
Compass Group Canada
A global company providing food and cleaning services to various sectors such as healthcare, education, and business. They offer sponsorships depending on labor shortages and job types.
You can visit Explore opportunities on the Compass Group career portal.
Merry Maids
Specializing in residential cleaning services, Merry Maids operates in multiple Canadian locations and occasionally sponsors visas for foreign workers. They offer visa sponsorship but limited to specific branches that experience labor shortages.
You can visit Find available job postings and branch contacts on the Merry Maids careers page.
ServiceMaster Clean
ServiceMaster Clean is a nationwide cleaning company offering services in residential, healthcare, and commercial facilities. They support visa sponsorship for roles under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
You can visit Explore their job opportunities page to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I immigrate to Canada as a cleaner?
Yes, cleaners can immigrate to Canada through programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP). Sponsored employment in this field often leads to permanent residency via pathways such as Express Entry.
Are cleaners in demand in Canada?
Yes, cleaners are in high demand, especially in healthcare, hospitality, and industrial sectors. This demand has risen due to stringent sanitation requirements across the country.
How many hours does a cleaner work in Canada?
Cleaners typically work 30–40 hours weekly for full-time roles. Part-time jobs average 15–25 hours, with flexible or shift-based schedules common in many sectors.
What type of cleaners make the most money in Canada?
Industrial cleaners and executive housekeepers earn the highest, with salaries ranging from $40,000 to $60,000 annually, due to specialized skills or supervisory responsibilities.
How much is a cleaner paid in Canada?
Cleaners earn an average of $30,000–$38,000 per year or $14–$18 per hour. Experienced cleaners and supervisors can make up to $25/hour.
Where can I find hotel cleaning jobs in Canada for foreigners?
Hotel cleaning jobs with sponsorship are advertised on platforms like Job Bank, Indeed, and major hotel chain career sites (e.g., Hilton, Fairmont).
Which provinces in Canada pay cleaners the highest?
Alberta, Ontario, and British Columbia offer the highest pay. For example, industrial cleaners in Alberta earn up to $55,000/year, while Ontario and BC offer competitive wages in the hospitality and healthcare sectors.
What are the requirements for getting a cleaning job in Canada for Foreigners
Requirements include basic cleaning skills, English/French proficiency, physical fitness, employer sponsorship through TFWP, and, in some cases, a clear background check. Specialized roles may need certifications.
