The UK’s essential services sector has a constant demand for reliable cleaners in hospitals, offices, schools, transport hubs, and public facilities. In 2026, this demand has created a legitimate but competitive pathway for international job seekers to obtain a UK Skilled Worker Visa through licensed employers.
If you are physically fit, dependable, and can communicate in basic English, cleaner jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship offer a legal route to live and work in the UK, earn a stable income, and grow long-term in the facilities management industry.
To qualify, you need to be physically fit and reliable and have a good understanding of basic English for safety and communication. No formal qualifications are required. In return, you can expect an hourly wage of £10.50 to £14.00, along with the crucial benefit of a Skilled Worker Visa sponsored by a licensed employer. If you are a hardworking individual seeking a new start, a cleaner role could be your gateway.
What Does a Cleaner Do in UK?
Cleaners play a critical role in maintaining hygiene, safety, and infection control, especially in hospitals and public buildings.
Typical Responsibilities of a General Cleaner
- Sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming floors
- Cleaning and sanitizing toilets and washrooms
- Dusting desks, furniture, and equipment
- Emptying bins and disposing of waste safely
- Cleaning windows and glass surfaces
- Restocking supplies (soap, paper towels, sanitizers)
- Following COSHH safety standards and NHS hygiene protocols
Entity mentions: NHS cleaning standards, facilities management, hygiene compliance, COSHH regulations.
Salary Expectations for Cleaner Jobs in UK
Cleaner salaries vary by role, shift, and sector.
| Job Role | Hourly Pay (GBP) | Estimated Monthly Salary |
|---|---|---|
| General Cleaner | £10.50 – £12.00 | £1,700 – £1,950 |
| Night Cleaner | £11.50 – £13.00 | £1,850 – £2,200 |
| Hospital / Deep Cleaner | £12.00 – £14.00 | £2,000 – £2,400 |
Fact: The UK Skilled Worker Visa minimum salary requirement is £20,960 per year or £10.75/hour, which these roles meet.
Key Benefits of Cleaner Jobs in UK
Entry Without Formal Qualifications
No degree or diploma is required. Employers prioritize:
- Reliability
- Physical fitness
- Attention to detail
Stable Work & Income
Cleaners are required in:
- NHS hospitals
- Schools and universities
- Airports and train stations
- Offices and shopping centres
This creates year-round job stability.
Legal Employment & Worker Protection
Sponsored workers receive:
- Paid holidays
- Sick leave
- Employment contracts
- Protection under UK labor law
Access to Public Services
With a valid visa, you can access:
- NHS healthcare
- Worker protections and legal rights
Career Growth
Many workers progress to:
- Team Leader
- Site Supervisor
- Facilities Manager
Pro Tip (Experience):
“In NHS facilities, cleaners who consistently follow hygiene protocols are often promoted within 12–18 months.”
Visa Sponsorship Explained – Skilled Worker Visa (UK)
To work legally as a cleaner in the UK, most sponsored roles fall under the Skilled Worker Visa or Health and Care Worker Visa.
Requirements for Visa Sponsorship
- Job offer from a licensed UK sponsor
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from employer
- Minimum salary threshold met
- English level B1 (IELTS for UKVI or equivalent)
- Proof of funds (£1,270 unless employer certifies)
Top UK Employers That Sponsor Cleaner Visas
NHS (National Health Service)
- Job title: Domestic Assistant / Hospital Cleaner
- Visa route: Health and Care Worker Visa
- Official site: jobs.nhs.uk
Facilities Management Companies
These companies manage cleaning contracts for airports, schools, and offices:
- Mitie Group
- OCS Group
- ISS UK
They regularly sponsor visas for hard-to-fill roles.
Who Can Apply for UK Cleaner Jobs?
You are eligible if you:
- Are 18+ years old
- Are physically fit for manual work
- Have basic English communication
- Have a clean criminal record
- Hold a valid passport
Applicants from Asia, Africa, and Latin America are commonly recruited.
How to Apply for General Cleaner Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship
Step-by-Step Process
1. Prepare Your Documents
- 1-page CV (cleaning, labor, reliability experience)
- Valid passport
- Police clearance certificate
2. Search on UK Job Portals
Use:
- Indeed.co.uk
- TotalJobs.com
- Reed.co.uk
Search terms:
- “Cleaner visa sponsorship UK”
- “Domestic Assistant NHS Skilled Worker”
- “Hospital cleaner UK visa”
3. Apply Directly to Employers
Check career pages of:
- NHS Trusts
- Mitie
- OCS
- ISS
4. Interview & Job Offer
- Phone or video interview
- Receive job offer + CoS
5. Apply for Skilled Worker Visa
- Submit online visa application using CoS
Conclusion
While cleaner jobs with visa sponsorship in the UK are competitive, they remain a legal and realistic pathway for hardworking individuals. With strong demand in the NHS and facilities management sector, reliable workers can secure stable employment, legal residency, and long-term career growth.
If you are consistent, patient, and apply through the right employers, a cleaner role can become your gateway to building a future in UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an English test really mandatory for a cleaning job?
Yes. For the Skilled Worker Visa, proving B1-level English through an approved test like IELTS for UKVI is a strict requirement, regardless of the job type.
Can I bring my family with me on this visa?
Yes. If you hold a valid Skilled Worker Visa, you can bring your spouse/partner and dependent children. You must meet the financial requirement to support them.
