The United Kingdom continues to offer great opportunities for international workers looking to build a stable career in essential service industries. One of the roles in strong demand is that of housekeeping.
From luxury hotels and care centers to private homes, the need for reliable housekeepers is growing across the UK. This demand is opening doors for international job seekers—especially those needing visa sponsorship.
Housekeeping isn’t just about cleaning. It involves trust, attention to detail, and is crucial for maintaining health and comfort. With post-Brexit labor needs, the UK has made visa sponsorships more accessible than before.
This guide covers:
- Entry-level skills
- Best regions for pay
- Salary expectations
- Companies hiring
- Visa options
- Job platforms
- How to apply
Entry-Level Skills and Experience Required
Most housekeeping roles in the UK don’t require a university degree or extensive experience. However, essential skills include:
- Attention to detail – Cleanliness and order are top priorities.
- Time management – Complete tasks efficiently without compromising quality.
- Basic English – Understand and follow instructions.
- Communication skills – Especially in hotels and care homes.
- Physical fitness – Standing, lifting, and moving for long periods.
- Previous experience – A bonus if you’ve worked as a cleaner, maid, janitor, or helper.
- Certificates – Health & safety or hygiene training is a plus.
- Documents – Valid passport, clear background check, and medical fitness.
Regions with the Highest Payment Structures
Pay varies based on region. Here are the best-paying areas:
1. London & South East
- Highest wages
- Demand in hotels, luxury apartments, private estates
- Often includes free accommodation and meals
2. Manchester, Birmingham & Bristol
- Competitive salaries
- Growing hospitality and care industries
3. South West (Bath, Exeter)
- Seasonal tourism jobs
- Higher earnings during peak seasons
4. Scotland (Edinburgh, Glasgow)
- Strong tourism sector
- More open to sponsoring international workers
5. Wales & Northern Ireland
- Fewer jobs overall
- Some opportunities in private healthcare and resorts
Salary Expectations for Foreign Workers
- Entry-Level: £10.50–£12.50/hour (Approx. £420–£500/week)
- Live-in Roles: Lower hourly pay, but includes accommodation and meals
- Experienced Roles: £14–£16/hour in luxury settings or supervisory positions
- Holidays/Weekends: Time-and-a-half or double pay
All foreign workers with legal visas are protected under UK labor laws.
Companies Hiring Housekeepers in the UK
- Hotel Chains: Hilton, Marriott, Radisson Blu, IHG
- NHS: Housekeeping jobs in hospitals and clinics
- Care Homes: Barchester Healthcare, Care UK, Anchor Hanover
- Cleaning Services: ISS UK, Mitie, Sodexo, OCS Group
- Private Clients: High-end households, embassies, VIPs
Always apply directly via official websites or trusted job platforms to avoid scams.
Visa Types and Options for Housekeepers
- Skilled Worker Visa – For roles with added responsibility (supervisory, team leads)
- Health and Care Worker Visa – For housekeepers in healthcare settings
- Seasonal Worker Visa – Temporary roles in tourism or events
Employers must provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Check the official UK sponsor list before applying.
Where to Find Housekeeping Job Opportunities
- GOV.UK Job Board
- Indeed UK
- TotalJobs, Monster UK, Reed.co.uk, Adzuna
- Hotel careers pages (e.g., Hilton, IHG, Marriott)
- Care homes (e.g., Bupa, Care UK)
- Recruitment agencies (e.g., A1 Care, Avanta Care, Bluebird Care)
- LinkedIn for job networking and applications
Warning: Never pay for a job or visa sponsorship. Use verified sources only.
How to Apply for Housekeeping Jobs in the UK
- Prepare a UK CV – Focus on housekeeping experience, English skills, and certifications.
- Write a tailored cover letter – Mention why you want to work in the UK and if you need sponsorship.
- Apply on verified sites – Upload all documents carefully and avoid mass applications.
- Prepare documents:
- Passport
- Police clearance
- Medical fitness certificate
- Employment history
- Relevant certifications
- Interview Prep – Be ready for online interviews about cleaning tasks, confidentiality, and time management.
- Visa Process – After a job offer, your employer applies for your CoS. Then you apply for the visa and pay any fees.
Once approved, arrange travel, open a UK bank account, and register for a National Insurance Number.
Final Thoughts
Housekeeping jobs in the UK offer international workers stability, fair pay, and career growth. With the right documents and approach, you can secure employment and build a better future in the UK.
Categories: UK Jobs, Visa Sponsorship, Housekeeping Careers
Tags: UK housekeeping jobs, visa sponsorship UK, work in UK 2025, NHS jobs, care home jobs, foreign workers UK, how to apply housekeeping UK