So, you’re thinking about working in the USA in 2025? Good news — if you have a passion for people, service, and teamwork, the hospitality industry is wide open. And yes, foreigners are welcome.
In fact, U.S. hotels, resorts, restaurants, and event venues are actively hiring international workers, especially in places where local labor is short. And the best part? Many of these jobs come with work visa options.
This article breaks down everything: the job types, who can apply, the visa you’ll need, and — most importantly — how to apply step-by-step.
Let’s dive in.
Contents
- 1 Why the U.S. Hospitality Industry Needs Foreign Workers
- 2 Types of Hospitality Jobs Available for Foreigners
- 3 Who Can Apply?
- 4 Visa Options for Hospitality Jobs in the USA
- 5 How Much Can You Earn?
- 6 Best U.S. States for Hospitality Jobs
- 7 How to Apply: Step-by-Step
- 8 A Typical Day in Hospitality
- 9 Final Thoughts
Why the U.S. Hospitality Industry Needs Foreign Workers
From luxury hotels in New York to beach resorts in Florida and national parks out west — the U.S. thrives on tourism and service.
But staffing? That’s another story.
Post-pandemic, many American workers left hospitality. Now, in 2025, thousands of roles are still open. So, to keep businesses running, U.S. employers are turning to foreign workers — especially for entry-level and seasonal jobs.
Whether you’re a fresh graduate, skilled hotel worker, or just looking for a foot in the door abroad, this might be the perfect year for you.
Types of Hospitality Jobs Available for Foreigners
Hospitality is a broad field. And the beauty of it? You don’t need a degree to get started. Here are the most common jobs hiring foreigners in the U.S. in 2025:
Entry-Level Roles
- Housekeeping staff
- Kitchen assistants / dishwashers
- Room attendants
- Bellhop / luggage porter
- Restaurant waiters / servers
- Baristas / coffee shop attendants
- Cleaning crew (hotels, theme parks, airports)
Skilled & Experienced Roles
- Front desk receptionist
- Concierge
- Hotel management trainee
- Bartender / mixologist
- Event coordinator
- Sous chef / head cook
- Spa attendant / therapist
Whether you’re in customer service, food service, or behind the scenes — the U.S. hospitality sector has space for you.
Who Can Apply?
Most hospitality jobs are open to foreigners, but employers want basic qualifications:
- Age 18 or older
- Physically fit and active
- Basic English skills (especially in guest-facing roles)
- Clean criminal background
- Willingness to relocate and follow rules
For entry-level positions, experience is optional. For front office or supervisory roles, experience in hotels or restaurants is often required.
Bonus tip: If you’ve worked in hospitality before — even in your home country — mention it clearly on your resume. It can make a big difference.
Visa Options for Hospitality Jobs in the USA
Here’s the part that matters most: you need the right visa to work legally in the United States.
In 2025, the most common visa options for hospitality workers are:
1. H-2B Visa (Temporary Non-Agricultural Worker Program)
- Best option for seasonal hospitality jobs
- For positions like housekeeping, servers, kitchen help, cleaning staff
- Valid for up to 9 months, renewable
- Employer must sponsor and file a petition on your behalf
2. J-1 Visa (Cultural Exchange / Internship Program)
- For students and recent graduates (under age 35)
- Good for hospitality internships and training programs
- Lasts 6–18 months, often with housing included
- Many hotels and resorts hire under this category
3. Employment-Based Visa (EB-3) – Skilled Workers
- Less common for hospitality
- For full-time, long-term skilled workers (chefs, hotel supervisors)
- Employer must go through PERM labor certification
If you’re applying outside the U.S., your future employer must file the petition first, and you can apply for the visa afterward at your local U.S. embassy or consulate.
How Much Can You Earn?
Pay depends on the job, your experience, and where you’re working.
Average Salary in 2025:
| Job Role | Hourly Rate (USD) | Monthly Pay (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Housekeeping / Cleaning | $14 – $18 | $2,200 – $2,900 |
| Restaurant Server | $15 – $20 + tips | $2,400 – $3,200+ |
| Kitchen Assistant | $14 – $18 | $2,100 – $2,800 |
| Front Desk Staff | $16 – $22 | $2,600 – $3,400 |
| Bartender | $16 – $25 + tips | $2,800 – $4,000+ |
Some jobs include free meals, uniforms, shared housing, or transport to work. Seasonal jobs at resorts and national parks often offer on-site accommodation.
Best U.S. States for Hospitality Jobs
Certain parts of the U.S. are especially active in hospitality hiring:
- Florida – Resorts, beaches, cruise ports
- California – Hotels, spas, theme parks
- New York – High-end hotels, restaurants
- Nevada (Las Vegas) – Casinos, entertainment venues
- Colorado / Utah – Ski resorts, seasonal lodges
- Texas – City hotels, chain restaurants
- Hawaii – Island resorts and tours
Want a better chance at getting hired? Be open to remote or seasonal locations — they often have more demand and fewer local workers.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Let’s simplify the process:
1. Get Your Documents Ready
Prepare the basics:
- CV/resume in English (simple format)
- Passport copy
- Educational certificates
- Reference letters (if any)
- Proof of work experience (optional but useful)
- Police clearance (some employers may ask)
2. Search for Jobs
Use trusted job sites like:
- Indeed USA
- SimplyHired
- CoolWorks.com (seasonal & hospitality)
- HCareers
- SeasonalJobs.dol.gov (official U.S. government site)
Search terms like:
- “Hospitality jobs with visa sponsorship USA 2025”
- “J-1 internship hotel jobs USA”
- “H-2B visa restaurant jobs USA”
3. Apply Online
Once you find a job that offers visa sponsorship, apply with your resume and cover letter. Some employers may reach out for a video interview.
Be prepared, be polite, and show that you’re serious about relocating and working.
4. Wait for Employer Petition
If selected, the employer files a petition with U.S. immigration authorities (for H-2B or J-1 visas). Once approved, you’ll apply for your visa in your home country.
A Typical Day in Hospitality
You wake up early. Put on your uniform. Greet guests, clean rooms, serve breakfast, or check people in at the front desk.
Every shift is different. You meet people from around the world. It’s tiring sometimes — but it’s rewarding, especially when you see guests smiling and you know you’ve helped make their stay great.
At the end of the day, you take off your name tag, count your tips, and dream a little more about where this job could lead.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, hospitality jobs in the USA for foreigners are more than just temporary work — they’re a stepping stone.
With a legal work visa, you can earn, learn, and live in one of the most vibrant service industries in the world. Whether it’s for one season or a long-term move, your opportunity is out there.
So, if you’ve got the energy, the attitude, and the passion to serve — go for it.
Apply today. Your next big adventure could start at a hotel front desk in America.