Are you looking for a stable job opportunity abroad with decent pay and full immigration support? If yes, working as a cleaner in Canada with visa sponsorship could be your gateway to a new life in one of the world’s most welcoming countries. This career path offers both skilled and unskilled workers the opportunity to earn a living, enjoy job stability, and secure long-term residency in Canada.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about visa sponsorship for cleaners in Canada, including salary expectations, visa types, job requirements, top employers, and step-by-step instructions to apply in 2025. Whether you are from Africa, Asia, or Latin America, Canada’s immigration system provides opportunities for everyone willing to work hard and contribute to the country’s workforce.
Visa Sponsorship for Cleaners in Canada To Earn $35,000: Your Complete 2025 Guide
Visa sponsorship for cleaners in Canada is one of the most accessible and practical immigration pathways in 2025 for foreigners without a formal degree. In a country where cleanliness is not just a necessity but a health and safety priority, the demand for cleaning staff has seen a sharp rise – across hospitals, hotels, offices and private homes.
Canada’s open-door approach to essential workers, combined with a severe domestic labor shortage in the janitorial and sanitation sector, has made this profession an attractive entry point for job seekers worldwide.
What makes this opportunity even more appealing is that it does not require a university education or professional certification to get started. Unlike many skilled visa programs that favor high-degree holders or tech professionals, this pathway values hands-on work, reliability and willingness to contribute to society in practical ways.
That’s why visa sponsorship for cleaners in Canada is especially popular among hardworking individuals in countries like Nigeria, India, the Philippines, Kenya and Pakistan – who are ready to relocate, earn in foreign currency and support their families back home.
This isn’t just another cleaning job. With visa sponsorship, you are stepping into a legal and structured employment program where you receive fair pay, labor rights and in some cases, a direct route to Canadian permanent residency. Jobs in this category typically come with standard wages ranging from CAD 15 to 22 per hour and many include perks such as health benefits, paid vacation and even housing support. For someone without a degree, this can be life-changing – financially and professionally.
The process is relatively straightforward but does involve steps like securing an LMIA-backed job offer, applying for a work permit and following through with immigration procedures. Thankfully, there are countless Canadian employers across provinces like Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan actively looking for foreign workers to fill cleaning roles.
From commercial cleaning companies to long-term care homes and private service providers, the demand is widespread – and the openings are real.
So, if you’ve been dreaming about moving to Canada but don’t hold a university degree, this is your sign to act. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about visa sponsorship for cleaners in Canada – from job search strategies to immigration requirements, the best cities to apply and how to avoid common mistakes.
Get ready, because by the end of this article, you’ll be fully equipped to start your application journey with clarity and confidence.
Why Canada is Seeking Cleaners in 2025
Canada continues to experience a rapid rise in population, urban development, and economic diversification. These factors have led to a strong and consistent demand for essential workers — particularly cleaners, janitors, and maintenance staff. Across both the public and private sectors, the need for reliable cleaning services has become critical to maintaining hygiene, safety, and operational efficiency.
As of 2025, Canada’s job market has shown that the cleaning and maintenance industry is among the top five employment categories facing persistent labor shortages. The situation is especially acute in major metropolitan regions such as Toronto (Ontario), Vancouver (British Columbia), Calgary (Alberta), and Edmonton (Alberta), where construction booms, tourism, and commercial expansion are driving the need for cleaning staff at record levels.
1. Labor Shortages Across Provinces
The cleaning sector in Canada has been heavily impacted by labor shortages. Many Canadian citizens and permanent residents are moving toward higher-paying or remote professional jobs, leaving large gaps in essential, on-site labor positions. This shortage has prompted employers to actively recruit foreign workers through visa sponsorship programs to ensure that cleaning services in schools, hospitals, and commercial buildings remain uninterrupted.
According to Canada’s Job Bank data, over 25,000 cleaning-related positions were listed in 2024 alone — with projections showing even greater demand into 2025.
2. Rapid Business Expansion and Urban Growth
Canada’s growing economy has led to the development of new office spaces, residential complexes, hospitals, and hotels. Each new facility requires dedicated cleaning personnel to maintain cleanliness and adhere to strict health standards. Additionally, as Canada continues to welcome thousands of immigrants each year, the expansion of residential and public infrastructure has created long-term employment opportunities for cleaners nationwide.
Cities like Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Vancouver are seeing an unprecedented surge in commercial property development, which naturally boosts demand for janitorial and maintenance staff.
3. Supportive Immigration and Labor Policies
Canada’s government recognizes the vital role that low- and semi-skilled workers play in sustaining its economy. That’s why cleaning jobs are often classified under “essential occupations” eligible for visa sponsorship under programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
The Canadian government has simplified pathways for foreign workers by:
- Reducing visa processing times for labor-shortage sectors
- Allowing employers to offer Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)-approved sponsorships
- Promoting long-term settlement options for experienced foreign workers
This means that cleaners coming from abroad not only fill an immediate labor gap but also contribute to the long-term stability of the Canadian workforce.
4. Aging Workforce and Retirement Trends
Canada has one of the world’s most rapidly aging populations. A large portion of the domestic cleaning workforce is nearing retirement age, leaving a noticeable gap in manual labor roles. The demand for young, energetic workers from abroad has therefore grown significantly.
Employers are increasingly seeking international workers who are dependable, physically fit, and willing to work full-time hours in positions that are vital to maintaining public hygiene and business operations.
5. Heightened Focus on Health and Safety Standards
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a strong national emphasis on sanitation and hygiene standards in public places. Businesses, hospitals, schools, and hotels are now required to maintain strict cleanliness protocols, leading to a surge in demand for professional cleaners and janitors.
Cleaning roles have evolved from being seen as “basic labor” to essential public health positions — particularly in healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and hospitality settings. Employers now value cleaners not only for maintaining tidiness but also for preventing infections and improving overall public safety.
Visa Options for Cleaners in Canada
If you’re a foreign national interested in working as a cleaner in Canada with visa sponsorship, there are several immigration pathways that allow you to live and work legally while earning a decent income. The Canadian government provides multiple programs specifically designed to address labor shortages in essential occupations such as cleaning, janitorial services, and facility maintenance.
Below is a detailed overview of the most popular visa programs that cleaners can use to move to Canada in 2025.
1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) is one of the most common and direct routes for foreign cleaners to gain legal employment in Canada. Through this program, Canadian employers can hire foreign workers for temporary positions when there are no qualified Canadians available to fill the roles.
To hire a foreign worker, employers must first obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) — a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that verifies the need to hire a foreign worker for the position.
Once the LMIA is approved, the employer can issue a formal job offer to the applicant, who can then apply for a Canadian work permit.
Eligibility Requirements for TFWP:
- A valid job offer from a Canadian employer
- A positive LMIA from ESDC
- Proof of relevant experience or training (if required)
- Ability to meet Canadian language standards (basic English or French)
- Clean criminal record and medical clearance
Key Benefits:
- Legal right to work and live in Canada for up to 2 years (renewable)
- Opportunity to gain Canadian work experience
- Access to free healthcare and employment protections under Canadian labor law
- Possibility of transitioning to permanent residency through other immigration streams like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Note: Many cleaning companies in Canada are LMIA-approved employers, meaning they are legally allowed to hire foreign workers under this program.
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is another excellent option for cleaners looking for long-term immigration opportunities in Canada. Each province and territory operates its own version of the PNP, targeting specific labor market needs.
For cleaning and janitorial roles, provinces such as Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Alberta, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick are especially active in nominating foreign workers.
The key advantage of this program is that provincial governments can directly nominate applicants for permanent residency based on local demand, without requiring high education or advanced job experience.
PNP Highlights for Cleaners:
- Many provinces include cleaning, janitorial, or housekeeping jobs under NOC codes 65310 and 65311 (Light Duty Cleaner and Janitor/Caretaker).
- Some provinces may waive the LMIA requirement if the employer is already approved under a provincial immigration agreement.
- Applicants who receive a nomination from a province can apply for permanent residence through the Express Entry or non-Express Entry stream.
Benefits of the PNP Pathway:
- Faster route to permanent residency compared to temporary work visas
- No need for a job offer in certain provincial streams
- Family sponsorship eligibility (you can bring your spouse and dependent children)
- Access to settlement support programs provided by provincial governments
Examples:
- Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP): Regularly accepts cleaners and janitors under the Occupations In-Demand stream.
- Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP): Recognizes essential workers in cleaning and building maintenance.
- Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP): Encourages unskilled and semi-skilled workers to apply for permanent settlement.
3. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is specifically designed for employers in Canada’s Atlantic provinces — New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. This program aims to attract foreign workers to fill persistent labor shortages in the region’s growing hospitality, maintenance, and cleaning industries.
One of the biggest advantages of AIP is that employers do not need to apply for an LMIA, making the process much faster and more accessible.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Job offer from an AIP-designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces
- High school education or equivalent
- Proof of basic language proficiency (CLB level 4 or higher)
- Intention to live in the Atlantic region permanently
Benefits of AIP for Cleaners:
- Faster visa processing time than the TFWP
- Direct path to permanent residence
- Opportunity to bring family members to Canada
- Employer and provincial support for relocation and settlement
Because of its streamlined process and employer-driven model, the AIP has become one of the most foreigner-friendly immigration routes for cleaners and general laborers looking for permanent settlement opportunities.
4. Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) is designed to encourage immigrants to settle and work in smaller, rural communities across Canada. Many of these towns and regions face severe labor shortages, particularly in essential service jobs such as cleaning, maintenance, and hospitality.
If you prefer a quieter lifestyle and wish to contribute to the growth of smaller communities, the RNIP is an excellent pathway.
Participating Communities Include:
- North Bay, Ontario
- Brandon, Manitoba
- Thunder Bay, Ontario
- Vernon, British Columbia
- Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan
RNIP Requirements for Cleaners:
- Full-time, permanent job offer from an employer in a participating community
- Proof of work experience in a related occupation (6 months to 1 year preferred)
- Educational credential (at least a high school diploma)
- Language proficiency (CLB 4 or higher)
- Sufficient funds to settle in the community
Benefits of RNIP:
- Opportunity to work in peaceful, low-cost communities
- High demand for cleaners in rural towns (less competition than cities)
- Pathway to permanent residency after 1–2 years of work experience
- Strong community integration and settlement support
5. Agri-Food Pilot and Other Regional Pathways
While not specifically targeted at cleaners, some regional and sectoral pilots occasionally include cleaning and sanitation roles related to agricultural facilities, food processing, and manufacturing. These positions can sometimes qualify under the Agri-Food Pilot Program or employer-driven LMIA exemptions if sanitation is part of production work.
Such opportunities are often found in processing plants, cold storage facilities, and packaging industries, where maintaining cleanliness is crucial for food safety.
Eligibility Criteria for Visa Sponsorship
One of the most appealing aspects of cleaning jobs in Canada is the minimal entry requirements. Most positions do not require a formal degree, making them accessible to a broader range of applicants. Key eligibility criteria include:
-
Job Offer from a Canadian Employer: Securing a job offer is the first step. Employers must demonstrate that they cannot find a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to fill the position.
-
Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): The employer must obtain an LMIA, which assesses the impact of hiring a foreign worker on the Canadian labor market.
-
Work Permit: Once the LMIA is approved, applicants can apply for a work permit, allowing them to work legally in Canada.
Application Process
-
Job Search: Utilize Canadian job portals such as Indeed, Job Bank and Workopolis to find cleaning job listings that offer visa sponsorship.
-
Resume and Cover Letter: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and express your willingness to relocate.
-
Interview Process: Be prepared for virtual interviews and demonstrate your commitment and reliability.
-
LMIA and Work Permit Application: Once a job offer is secured, the employer will apply for an LMIA. Upon approval, you can proceed to apply for a work permit.
Benefits of Working as a Cleaner in Canada
Working as a cleaner in Canada offers numerous benefits:
-
Competitive Salaries: Cleaners can earn between CAD 15 to CAD 20 per hour, depending on the region and employer.
-
Job Security: The consistent demand for cleaning services ensures job stability.
-
Pathway to Permanent Residency: Many cleaning jobs can lead to permanent residency through programs like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
-
Healthcare and Social Benefits: Access to Canada’s public healthcare system and other social benefits.
Challenges to Consider
While the opportunities are promising, potential applicants should be aware of certain challenges:
-
Physical Demands: Cleaning jobs can be physically demanding, requiring stamina and attention to detail.
-
Weather Conditions: Depending on the region, adapting to Canada’s climate can be challenging.
-
Cultural Adjustment: Adjusting to a new culture and work environment requires flexibility and openness.
Visa sponsorship for cleaners in Canada offers a unique and attainable opportunity for individuals without a degree to legally live and work in one of the most welcoming and prosperous countries in the world. With a consistent demand for cleaning professionals across healthcare, hospitality, residential and commercial sectors, Canada has made it easier for foreign workers to find meaningful employment that comes with not just a paycheck, but dignity, security and a clear path to residency. This is not just about scrubbing floors – it’s about stepping into a better future.
As we’ve explored throughout this guide, the process involves securing a valid job offer, ensuring your employer obtains an LMIA and applying for a work permit. It’s essential to prepare a strong resume, target the right employers and stay updated with immigration regulations. And while the job may come with physical demands and a period of cultural adjustment, the long-term benefits far outweigh the challenges – especially when you factor in competitive wages, benefits and potential for permanent residency.
Now is the time to take action. Whether you’re searching for job listings online, networking through community forums or reaching out to Canadian recruitment agencies, don’t wait on the sidelines. Start preparing your application today and take the first real step toward transforming your life. Canada needs workers like you – motivated, dependable and ready to contribute. And you? You just need to say yes to the opportunity.
FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Visa Sponsorship for Cleaners in Canada To Earn $35,000
1. Can I apply for cleaning jobs in Canada without having a university degree?
Yes, you can. Most cleaning jobs in Canada do not require a formal degree. What matters more is your work ethic, willingness to relocate and your ability to perform cleaning tasks efficiently. Many Canadian employers are open to hiring international workers for these roles and offer visa sponsorship even to those with only secondary school education or equivalent.
2. What kind of visa do I need to work as a cleaner in Canada?
To work legally as a cleaner in Canada through visa sponsorship, you will typically need a Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) work permit. This is usually supported by a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which the employer applies for to demonstrate there is no local worker available for the job. Once approved, you can apply for a work permit.
3. How much do cleaners earn in Canada in 2025?
Wages for cleaners vary by province, employer and the specific job setting (e.g., hospitals vs. private homes). On average, cleaners earn between CAD 15 and CAD 22 per hour, with full-time positions offering consistent weekly hours. Some employers may also provide benefits like healthcare coverage, housing support or paid vacation.
4. How can I find Canadian employers that offer visa sponsorship for cleaning jobs?
You can search for these jobs through official platforms such as Job Bank Canada, Indeed.ca, Workopolis and LinkedIn. Use search terms like “cleaner jobs with visa sponsorship” or “LMIA-approved cleaning jobs.” It’s also helpful to contact Canadian recruitment agencies that specialize in foreign labor.
5. Can cleaning jobs in Canada lead to permanent residency?
Yes, in many cases they can. After working in Canada under a valid work permit, you may become eligible for permanent residency through programs like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Some provinces actively nominate foreign workers in essential roles, including cleaning and sanitation, making this a viable long-term immigration pathway.
Final Thoughts
Working as a cleaner in Canada with visa sponsorship is one of the easiest ways to immigrate and start a new life abroad in 2025. With annual earnings of up to $35,000, you can secure a stable income, gain valuable work experience, and eventually apply for permanent residency.
Whether you’re applying through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or a Provincial Nominee Program, this opportunity offers a practical and rewarding path to live and work in Canada.
If you have the determination to work hard, follow application procedures carefully, and meet basic eligibility requirements, your dream of working and living in Canada as a sponsored cleaner could become a reality in the coming year.