Do you hope to begin your new life in a place with impressive scenery, a rich background and welcoming people? Skilled workers worldwide can find cleaner jobs in Scotland with the help of a visa.
Here, you’ll find all the essential information such as variety of jobs, expected salary, getting a visa, cost of living and how to apply.
Why Scotland Needs International Cleaners
Tourism, healthcare and education are major contributors to the Scottish economy. Maintaining health and safety in these areas is ensured by cleaners.
This explains why these industries are on the rise.
- There are over 15 million visitors to Scotland every single year. Since many people use hotels, restaurants and attractions, they require cleaners for upkeep.
- The NHS in Scotland hires cleaners to reduce risks of hospital infections.
- Global Firms: Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen welcome large companies that use daily cleaners for their offices.
- Older Local Workers: Because many people are retiring, the departure of local workers means that more roles will be available for attention from people living abroad.
Foreign cleaners can legally work in the UK because the country’s government grants employers visas through the Skilled Worker Visa program.
Detailed Breakdown of Cleaner Roles + Salaries
Below is a complete table of cleaner jobs in Scotland, including tasks, salaries, and required skills.
| Job Title | Key Responsibilities | Average Salary (Annual) | Hourly Wage | Skills Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Cleaner | Clean offices, schools, and shops. Tasks: vacuuming, mopping, sanitizing restrooms. | £18,000 – £22,000 | £9 – £11 | Time management, teamwork. |
| Domestic Cleaner | Clean private homes. Tasks: laundry, window cleaning, deep cleaning kitchens/bathrooms. | £16,500 – £20,000 | £8.50 – £10 | Attention to detail, reliability. |
| Hospital Cleaner | Follow strict hygiene protocols. Tasks: disinfect surfaces, handle biohazard waste. | £19,000 – £23,000 | £9.50 – £12 | Knowledge of safety standards. |
| Industrial Cleaner | Clean factories/warehouses. Tasks: operate floor scrubbers, remove debris, manage waste. | £20,000 – £25,000 | £10 – £13 | Physical stamina, equipment training. |
| Hotel Housekeeper | Clean guest rooms, replenish supplies, and maintain lobbies/dining areas. | £17,000 – £21,000 | £8.75 – £10.50 | Customer service, efficiency. |
Note: Salaries vary by city. For example, cleaners in Edinburgh earn 5-10% more than rural areas.
Step-by-Step Visa Sponsorship Process
To work in Scotland, you’ll need a Skilled Worker Visa. Here’s how it works:
1. Check Eligibility
- Job Offer: Secure a job from a UK employer with a valid Sponsor License (check the UK Sponsorship List).
- Salary: Earn at least £20,960 per year (or £10.75 per hour). Most cleaning jobs meet this threshold.
- English Proficiency: Pass an English test (IELTS, CEFR) or prove you studied in English.
2. Apply for the Visa
- Your employer sends a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- Submit your application online with:
- Passport
- Proof of savings (at least £1,270 to support yourself)
- Tuberculosis test results (if required for your country)
- Pay the visa fee: £719 (for up to 3 years) or £1,420 (over 3 years).
3. Relocate to Scotland
- Once approved, you can move to Scotland and start working. The visa lasts up to 5 years, renewable.
Where to Find Cleaner Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Take advantage of these websites to find opportunities.
- Search UK: Filter your job search by “Visa Sponsorship” and also select a location from the available list (like Glasgow or Aberdeen).
- Reed.co.uk: You can find plenty of sponsored cleaning jobs through the site.
- The Scottish Government’s website offers information on public-sector openings in hospitals or schools.
- You can follow Mitie, Sodexo or ISS Facility Services on LinkedIn because they are common sources of vacancies for cleaners.
- Blue Arrow and Pertemps are among the agencies that focus on cleaning jobs.
- Try searching for “visa sponsorship cleaner jobs in Scotland” or “sponsored cleaning jobs in the UK” to find good results.
Benefits of Working as a Cleaner in Scotland
- To apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), one must work in the UK for a period of five years.
- Bring your partner and your children if your household income meets the required levels (£285 for the spouse and £315 for every child annually).
- You have access to specialized medical services on the NHS, free of charge.
- Visit Areas: You can check out the Highlands, Loch Ness and Inverness during your weekends.