The U.S. hospitality industry, generating $1.2 trillion annually, faces a labor shortage, with 356,000+ housekeeping jobs offering visa sponsorship for foreign workers earning $11-$33/hour.
Immigrants from Asia, Africa, and Latin America can secure roles like hotel housekeepers, residential cleaners, and hospital cleaners through H-2B, H-1B, and EB-3 visas with firms like Marriott and Hilton. This guide details how to find, apply for, and secure these jobs in 2025-2026.
Housekeeping roles (SOC 37-2012) involve cleaning hotels, homes, hospitals, and offices, with 6,318+ visa-sponsored jobs available.
Salaries range from $11/hour for entry-level cleaners to $33/hour for experienced staff, with cities like New York offering higher pay. Recent job postings highlight openings with companies like Omni Hotels and Discovery Land Company.
With 1.2M work visas issued in 2024, the U.S. welcomes foreign workers to fill gaps. A job offer from a licensed employer is critical for sponsorship. Start now to join a stable industry and build a rewarding career in America.
Benefits of Working in the USA
Housekeeping jobs offer competitive wages ($11-$33/hour), job stability, and access to a diverse workforce with 40% immigrants. Benefits include health insurance, overtime pay at 1.5x rates, and subsidized housing. The role’s accessibility suits workers with minimal experience.
The U.S. hospitality sector, with 15M+ employees, ensures steady demand. Visa sponsorship via H-2B or EB-3 provides legal work and green card pathways. Employers like Hyatt offer training and career growth opportunities.
Dynamic cities like Los Angeles and Boston provide vibrant communities. Workers access networks like the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) for support. These benefits make the U.S. ideal for financial and personal advancement.
Overview of Housekeeping Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Housekeepers (SOC 37-2012) maintain cleanliness in hotels, homes, hospitals, and offices, performing tasks like vacuuming, dusting, and linen changes.
Roles include hotel room attendants, residential cleaners, hospital housekeepers, and commercial cleaners, with jobs at Jani-King and BrightStar Care. Sponsorship is available through H-2B for temporary roles, H-1B for specialized positions, or EB-3 for green cards.
Salaries range from $11/hour (entry-level) to $33/hour (experienced), with residential cleaners earning $19,601-$29,801/year. Full-time roles dominate (75%), with seasonal and part-time options growing. For example, Omni Hotels offers H-2B-sponsored roles in Nashville.
Key job details:
- Roles: Hotel room attendant, residential cleaner, hospital housekeeper, commercial cleaner.
- Settings: Hotels, private homes, hospitals, offices, resorts.
- Salary: $11-$33/hour, $19,601-$29,801/year; top earners up to $38,000.
- Hours: Full-time (75%), part-time (15%), seasonal (10%).
- Visa: H-2B, H-1B, EB-3, J-1 with job offer and basic skills.
- Demand: 356,000+ openings, 6,318+ visa-sponsored jobs (May 2025).
The market is strong, with 85% of hotels facing staffing shortages. High-demand areas like Florida and California offer H-2B roles. A job offer and basic qualifications are essential for sponsorship.
Eligibility for International Housekeepers
Eligibility for entry-level roles requires a high school diploma or equivalent and 3-6 months’ cleaning experience, while specialized roles like hospital cleaners need certifications (e.g., CHESP, $200-$400). Basic English proficiency (CLB 4) is sufficient for most roles, with TOEFL iBT 80-100 or IELTS 6.5 needed for H-1B positions. Physical stamina and background checks are mandatory.
H-2B visas target temporary, unskilled roles, requiring a job offer from 80 eligible countries and no degree. H-1B suits specialized cleaners with a bachelor’s and LCA, while EB-3 offers green cards for permanent roles with PERM certification. Applicants must pass criminal and health screenings.
Eligibility requirements:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent; none for entry-level.
- Experience: 3-6 months (entry-level), 1-2 years (specialized roles).
- Language: CLB 4 (most roles), TOEFL iBT 80-100 (H-1B).
- Skills: Cleaning, laundry, time management, attention to detail.
- Visa: Job offer, LCA (H-1B), PERM (EB-3), or H-2B eligibility.
- Certifications: CHESP ($200-$400), OSHA 10 ($25-$100), or CPR for hospitals.
Certifications like OSHA 10 ($25-$100) enhance profiles. Credential evaluations via WES validate foreign qualifications for skilled roles. Early preparation aligns with employer expectations.
Steps to Secure Housekeeping Jobs
Securing a visa-sponsored housekeeping job involves researching employers, building skills, applying strategically, and navigating visa processes. Platforms like Indeed.com, ZipRecruiter, and USponsorMe list 6,318+ roles, with applications requiring a U.S.-style resume (2 pages, no photo) and cover letter. Interviews assess cleaning skills, reliability, and guest interaction.
After a job offer, employers file an LCA for H-1B ($460-$2,460, 2-4 months), H-2B petition ($460, 5-8 months), or PERM for EB-3 (6-12 months). Certifications like OSHA 10 ($25-$100) or CPR ($50) may be required. Apply by March 2025 for H-1B filing or summer 2025 roles.
Steps to secure jobs:
- Build Skills: Gain 3-6 months’ cleaning experience; obtain OSHA 10 or CPR.
- Research: Use Indeed.com (6,318+ roles), ZipRecruiter, USponsorMe for jobs.
- Apply: Submit resume, cover letter, certifications, and work history.
- Interview: Highlight cleaning skills, reliability, and guest service.
- Visa: Employer files LCA (H-1B), H-2B petition, or PERM (EB-3).
- Relocate: Arrange housing, complete onboarding, comply with state laws.
Tailor resumes to emphasize cleaning experience. For example, Marriott seeks hotel housekeepers with H-2B support in Florida. Consult immigration lawyers via AILA.org for guidance.
Visa Sponsorship for Housekeepers
Visa sponsorship primarily occurs through H-2B for temporary, unskilled roles (9 months, $460), requiring a job offer from 80 eligible countries. H-1B targets specialized roles like hospital cleaners (3-6 years, $460-$2,805) with an LCA and degree. EB-3 offers green cards for permanent roles, taking 1-3 years with PERM certification.
H-2B has a 66,000 annual cap, with applications starting October 2025. H-1B’s 85,000 cap opens April 2025. EB-3 involves PERM ($2,000-$5,000, employer-paid), proving no U.S. workers are available. J-1 visas suit exchange programs for hospitality roles.
Visa sponsorship essentials:
- H-2B: $460, 9 months, 66,000 cap, no degree required.
- H-1B: $460-$2,805, 3-6 years, 85,000 cap, bachelor’s needed.
- EB-3: Green card, 1-3 years, PERM ($2,000-$5,000), job offer.
- J-1: For exchange programs, 1-2 years, no degree needed.
- Documents: Passport, job offer, experience proof, TOEFL/IELTS.
- Processing: 5-8 months (H-2B), 2-4 months (H-1B), 6-12 months (EB-3).
For example, Discovery Land Company sponsors seasonal housekeepers via H-2B in New York. Contact lawyers at +1 202-787-1944 for support. Apply post-job offer to streamline processes.
Benefits of Housekeeping Jobs
Housekeeping jobs offer wages of $11-$33/hour, with experienced cleaners earning up to $38,000/year. Employers provide health insurance, subsidized housing, and overtime pay. Visa sponsorship ensures legal work and residency pathways.
High demand, with 356,000+ openings, guarantees stability. Entry-level roles need minimal experience, while certifications like CHESP offer specialization. Workers access AHLA resources for career growth.
Job benefits:
- Financial: $11-$33/hour, $19,601-$29,801/year, overtime pay.
- Security: 356,000+ openings, 6,318+ visa-sponsored jobs.
- Support: Health insurance, housing, training, relocation stipends.
- Flexibility: Full-time (75%), part-time (15%), seasonal (10%).
- Immigration: H-2B, H-1B, EB-3 for green card pathways.
- Growth: OSHA 10, CHESP certifications, AHLA membership.
For example, Hilton hires housekeepers with H-2B support in California. The role’s accessibility suits newcomers. Green cards enhance long-term stability.
Where to Find Housekeeping Jobs
Finding visa-sponsored jobs involves job boards, employer websites, and agencies. Indeed.com lists 6,318+ roles, ZipRecruiter offers 204+ jobs, and USponsorMe curates listings. Employers like Omni Hotels and Jani-King post openings. Following X accounts like @JOBCORNER247 shares alerts.
Networking with AHLA or attending hospitality job fairs in Miami connects you with sponsors. Agencies like H2B Visa Jobs offer job-matching. Forums like Reddit’s r/Immigration provide peer insights.
Resources for job search:
- Job Boards: Indeed.com (6,318+ roles), ZipRecruiter, USponsorMe.
- Employer Sites: Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, Omni Hotels.
- Social Media: @JOBCORNER247, @WorkVisaJobsUSA for updates.
- Networks: AHLA, job fairs in Miami, New York.
- Forums: Reddit’s r/Immigration, Quora for advice.
- Agencies: H2B Visa Jobs, W3Global for job-matching.
Verify jobs via official sites to avoid scams. Start searching by March 2025 for summer 2025 roles. Save links and contact employers directly.
Application Tips for Success
A strong application highlights cleaning experience, reliability, and certifications. U.S. resumes (2 pages, no photo) should list OSHA 10, CPR, and relevant skills. Cover letters must address employer needs, like hygiene standards.
Prepare for interviews by practicing questions on cleaning techniques and guest service. Secure OSHA 10 ($25-$100) or CPR ($50) early. Follow up with employers within 1-2 weeks.
Application best practices:
- Resume: 2 pages, list OSHA 10, CPR, cleaning experience.
- Cover Letter: Highlight reliability, hygiene, guest interaction.
- Certifications: OSHA 10 ($25-$100), CPR ($50), CHESP ($200-$400).
- Interview: Discuss cleaning methods, teamwork, attention to detail.
- Timeline: Start March 2025, apply by June for summer 2025 roles.
- Follow-Up: Email employers within 1-2 weeks post-application.
For example, Hyatt seeks room attendants with H-2B support in Texas. Optimize LinkedIn for recruiter visibility. Early applications boost chances in a competitive market.
Cost of Relocating and Working
Relocating costs $5,000-$10,000, including flights ($500-$2,000), housing deposits ($1,500-$3,000), and certifications ($25-$400). H-2B ($460) and H-1B ($460-$2,805) fees are employer-covered, but EB-3 PERM ($2,000-$5,000) may vary. Living costs range from $1,200-$2,500/month, with Orlando being affordable.
Salaries ($19,601-$29,801) cover expenses, with overtime adding 20%. Additional costs include taxes (25-35%) and personal expenses ($500/month). Budgeting for uniforms ($100-$200) ensures stability.
Key expenses (covered/supported):
- Visa: H-2B ($460), H-1B ($460-$2,805), employer-covered.
- Relocation: Flights ($500-$2,000), housing ($1,500-$3,000).
- Living: $1,200-$2,500/month (housing, food, transport).
- Certifications: OSHA 10 ($25-$100), CPR ($50), CHESP ($200-$400).
- Taxes: 25-35% on income, consult tax professional.
- Extras: Uniforms ($100-$200), personal expenses ($500/month).
Sponsorship minimizes costs. Confirm coverage with employers. Budgeting supports financial planning.
Networking for Job Success
Networking with employers, AHLA, and agencies enhances job prospects. Attend hospitality webinars by H2B Visa Jobs or job fairs in New York. Connect with recruiters on LinkedIn or follow @WorkVisaJobsUSA for insights.
Join forums like Reddit’s r/Immigration or AHLA communities. Follow up with contacts within 1-2 weeks. For example, a Filipino housekeeper landed a Marriott role via AHLA networking.
Networking strategies:
- Attend: H2B Visa Jobs webinars, job fairs in New York, Miami.
- Connect: LinkedIn recruiters, @WorkVisaJobsUSA, @JOBCORNER247.
- Engage: Reddit’s r/Immigration, AHLA forums.
- Contact: Email firms (e.g., careers@marriott.com).
- Follow-Up: Message contacts within 1-2 weeks post-interaction.
- Join: AHLA, industry groups post-relocation for support.
Start networking by March 2025. AHLA feedback refines applications. Persistent engagement secures sponsored roles.
Challenges for Applicants
The market is competitive, with 356,000+ applicants for housekeeping roles. Visa processing delays, like H-2B (5-8 months) or EB-3 (1-3 years), pose hurdles. Certifications like CHESP ($200-$400) require time and fees.
Language barriers (CLB 4 for most roles, IELTS 6.5 for H-1B) and credential evaluations challenge applicants. Job scams targeting visa seekers are prevalent. Physically demanding roles require stamina and safety compliance.
Common challenges:
- Competition: 356,000+ applicants for housekeeping roles.
- Visa Delays: H-2B (5-8 months), EB-3 (1-3 years).
- Certifications: OSHA 10 ($25-$100), CHESP ($200-$400), time-intensive.
- Language: CLB 4 (most roles), IELTS 6.5 (H-1B).
- Scams: Verify jobs via Indeed.com, avoid unofficial platforms.
- Demands: Physical stamina, hygiene standards ongoing.
Use USponsorMe, prepare IELTS via Duolingo, and consult lawyers to mitigate risks. Apply to multiple firms by June 2025. Resilience overcomes obstacles.
Tips for Long-Term Success
Sustaining a housekeeping career requires continuous skill development and adaptability. Enroll in online courses for cleaning techniques ($50-$150) to stay competitive. Join AHLA for mentorship and job alerts.
Seek promotions to supervisory roles, which pay $20-$33/hour, after 1-2 years. Maintain a strong work ethic and build relationships with employers for visa renewals or green card sponsorship.
Success strategies:
- Upskill: Take cleaning courses ($50-$150), earn CHESP certification.
- Network: Join AHLA, attend industry events for opportunities.
- Perform: Show reliability, hygiene, and guest service skills.
- Advance: Aim for supervisory roles ($20-$33/hour) after 1-2 years.
- Renew: Work with employers for H-2B extensions or EB-3 sponsorship.
- Save: Budget earnings to cover living costs and future goals.
For example, a Kenyan housekeeper advanced to a supervisor role at Hilton after earning CHESP. Document achievements for visa renewals. Consistent effort ensures career growth.
Conclusion
Housekeeping jobs in the USA for 2025-2026 offer salaries of $19,601-$29,801, visa sponsorship, and green card pathways. By securing certifications, job offers, and using platforms like Indeed.com, you can join a thriving industry. Start now to build your American dream.