If you’ve ever dreamed of working in a peaceful, clean, and safe country like New Zealand, there’s good news. In 2025, there are real opportunities for foreigners to work in New Zealand through cleaning jobs that come with visa sponsorship.
You don’t need a university degree. You don’t need years of experience. What you need is a good attitude, willingness to work hard, and the ability to follow rules. Many employers in New Zealand are actively hiring cleaners for hotels, offices, hospitals, and homes—and they’re offering visa support to workers from overseas.
In this article, we’ll walk you through what these jobs involve, how much you can earn, who can apply, and how to apply online.
Contents
Why Cleaning Jobs Are in Demand in New Zealand
New Zealand is a small but growing country. Its population isn’t large enough to fill all the available jobs—especially in sectors like cleaning, aged care, construction, and agriculture.
As tourism returns and hospitality businesses expand, the demand for cleaners has grown. At the same time, many New Zealanders prefer jobs in other sectors, so employers are turning to foreign workers to fill these essential roles.
That’s why the New Zealand government allows certain employers to sponsor overseas applicants under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) system. This visa lets you work legally in New Zealand for a period of time, usually 1 to 3 years, depending on the job offer.
What Kind of Cleaning Jobs Are Available?
Cleaning work is available across several industries, and most of these jobs are entry-level.
Here are the main types:
- Hotel cleaners: Housekeeping staff who clean guest rooms, change sheets, and maintain general cleanliness.
- Office and commercial cleaners: Clean workspaces, meeting rooms, and public areas in office buildings.
- Hospital cleaners: Clean and sanitize hospital rooms, hallways, and bathrooms to strict hygiene standards.
- Factory and warehouse cleaners: Ensure industrial spaces stay clean and safe for workers.
- Residential cleaners: Clean homes or apartment buildings, often working in teams or independently.
- School and daycare cleaners: Maintain safe and tidy environments for children.
Some roles require early morning or night shifts, while others follow standard daytime hours. Many positions include training, so you don’t need to be an expert before you apply.
How Much Can You Earn?
Cleaning jobs in New Zealand offer fair wages, especially considering the cost of living and labor protections.
On average, cleaners earn:
- NZD $23 to $27 per hour depending on the region and employer.
- A full-time cleaner working 40 hours a week can earn between NZD $920 to $1,080 per week.
- Weekend or night shifts may offer higher pay.
Some employers offer accommodation support, especially in rural areas or if you work for a hotel or resort. Others may offer transport or relocation assistance as part of their sponsorship package.
What Is Visa Sponsorship?
Visa sponsorship means a New Zealand employer agrees to support your visa application. This includes:
- Offering you a full-time, genuine job
- Applying for approval under the Accredited Employer system
- Providing proof to Immigration New Zealand that no local worker is available for the job
Once approved, the employer sends you a job offer, and you use that to apply for a work visa. Once granted, you can legally enter and work in New Zealand under that employer.
This process is safe and legal. You don’t need to pay bribes or use agents who make fake promises. If your employer is legitimate and accredited, they will help you every step of the way.
Who Can Apply?
These cleaning jobs are open to people from many different countries. You don’t need to be highly educated, but you do need to meet some basic criteria:
- Be between 21 and 50 years old
- Have good physical health (cleaning is physical work)
- Be able to speak and understand basic English
- Have no serious criminal history
- Be willing to follow instructions and company rules
- Have a valid passport
Having previous cleaning experience is helpful, but not required. Most employers will train you if you’re new to the job.
Countries That Commonly Apply
Many workers come from countries like:
- Philippines
- India
- Nepal
- Bangladesh
- Sri Lanka
- Indonesia
- Kenya
- Nigeria
- Fiji
- Tonga
- Samoa
- South Africa
If you’re from a country with good visa processing ties to New Zealand, your application might move faster.
Documents You’ll Need
Before applying, prepare the following:
- An updated CV or resume (mentioning any cleaning or physical work experience)
- A valid passport with at least 6 months remaining
- Passport-size photos
- Police clearance from your home country
- Medical certificate (usually required after job offer)
- A short cover letter or application message
Once the employer sends you a job offer, you’ll follow their instructions for the visa application.
How to Apply Online for Cleaning Jobs in New Zealand
Let’s walk through the steps you’ll need to follow.
1. Search for Jobs on Trusted Websites
Use job websites that list legal and verified openings, such as:
- seek.co.nz
- trademe.co.nz/jobs
- indeed.com.nz
- workhere.co.nz
- jobs.govt.nz
Search terms like:
- “Cleaning jobs with visa sponsorship”
- “Housekeeping jobs New Zealand for foreigners 2025”
- “Accredited employer cleaner jobs”
Also check Facebook groups and recruitment agencies in your home country that deal with New Zealand visas.
2. Check if the Employer is Accredited
Only employers accredited by Immigration New Zealand can sponsor foreign workers. Make sure this is clearly stated in the job ad. If not, ask them directly before applying.
3. Send Your Application
Write a short message or email like this:
Hello,
I am writing to apply for your advertised cleaning position. I am hardworking, reliable, and physically fit. I have previous experience in cleaning work and am available to relocate under visa sponsorship.I’ve attached my CV. Looking forward to hearing from you.
Thank you.
4. Attend Interviews and Wait for the Offer
If shortlisted, you may be interviewed via phone or video. Be polite, honest, and clear. If selected, the employer will send you a job offer and help you begin the visa application process.
5. Get Your Visa and Fly to New Zealand
Once approved, you’ll receive your visa. The employer may help with travel or housing. Upon arrival, you start work—usually after a short orientation.
When to Apply
Hiring happens throughout the year, but the busiest months are:
- January to March – high tourist season
- August to November – before the summer rush
Apply at least 2 to 3 months before your preferred start date to allow time for processing.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship in 2025 are a real chance for people looking to build a better life abroad. These are honest jobs that offer fair pay, legal protection, and a chance to work in one of the world’s most peaceful countries.
If you’re responsible, physically able, and ready for a new start—start applying now. With the right approach, your New Zealand journey could begin sooner than you think.
Let your work speak for you, and the opportunities will follow.