adminbhustleLearn how to secure cleaning and housekeeping jobs in Singapore for foreigners with visa sponsorship and job search tips.
Singapore’s thriving economy and high demand for facility services make it a prime destination for foreigners seeking cleaning and housekeeping jobs. These roles, classified as unskilled or low-skilled labor, are accessible to international workers, particularly from countries like India, Bangladesh, the Philippines, and Malaysia.
With Singapore’s strict immigration policies, securing such jobs requires understanding the job market, visa requirements, and application strategies. This comprehensive guide outlines practical steps to help foreigners land cleaning and housekeeping jobs in Singapore.
Understanding the Cleaning and Housekeeping Job Market in Singapore
Cleaning and housekeeping jobs in Singapore are in high demand across various sectors, including commercial offices, hotels, hospitals, and residential properties. These roles typically involve tasks such as vacuuming, disinfecting surfaces, waste management, and maintaining cleanliness in public or private spaces.
According to the Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM), the cleaning sector employs a significant number of foreign workers under the Work Permit scheme, with employers often providing visa sponsorship for reliable candidates.
In 2025, the demand for cleaners remains strong due to Singapore’s focus on hygiene, especially post-COVID-19, and its growing hospitality and healthcare industries. Salaries for cleaning and housekeeping roles typically range from S$1,300 to S$1,800 per month, with some employers offering benefits like accommodation or overtime pay.
These jobs are ideal for foreigners without specialized skills or advanced education, but competition can be intense due to the volume of applicants.
Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Cleaning and Housekeeping Jobs
1. Research Job Opportunities and Requirements
To find cleaning and housekeeping jobs, start by identifying reputable job platforms and employers. Popular job portals in Singapore include:
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MyCareersFuture.gov.sg: A government-backed platform listing local job openings, including cleaning roles.
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sg.indeed.com: Features a wide range of entry-level job listings with filters for visa sponsorship.
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sg.jobstreet.com: Offers job postings and employer reviews, ideal for foreigners.
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JobsDB Singapore: Lists opportunities in hospitality and facility services.
Additionally, recruitment agencies like Zenith Facility Services Pte. Ltd., 3C Synergy, and Career Hub Consultants specialize in placing foreign workers in cleaning roles. These agencies often assist with visa applications and employer matching.
Key Requirements:
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Age: Typically 18–50 years old (up to 58 for Malaysians).
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Health: Candidates must pass a medical examination as per MOM guidelines.
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Language Skills: Basic English proficiency is often required for communication.
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Work Permit Eligibility: Foreigners must secure a Work Permit for Migrant Workers, which requires a confirmed job offer.
2. Understand Visa and Work Permit Regulations
Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower regulates foreign workers through the Work Permit for Migrant Workers, the primary visa for unskilled jobs like cleaning. Here’s what you need to know:
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Work Permit: Issued for specific employers and roles, with a maximum validity of two years (renewable).
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Employer Sponsorship: Employers must apply for the Work Permit on your behalf, covering costs like the foreign worker levy (S$300–S$450 monthly, paid by the employer).
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Eligibility: Open to workers from approved source countries, including Malaysia, India, Bangladesh, China, and the Philippines.
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Application Process: After securing a job offer, the employer submits the Work Permit application via MOM’s online portal. Processing takes about one to three weeks.
Always verify with employers whether they offer visa sponsorship, as not all cleaning jobs include this benefit. Be cautious of agencies charging exorbitant fees, as legitimate recruiters align with MOM regulations.
3. Prepare a Professional Application
A well-crafted application increases your chances of standing out. Here’s how to prepare:
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Resume: Create a simple, one-page resume highlighting any cleaning, hospitality, or manual labor experience. Include personal details (name, nationality, contact information), work history, and basic skills (e.g., teamwork, time management). If you lack experience, emphasize reliability and willingness to learn.
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Cover Letter: Write a brief cover letter tailored to each job, explaining why you’re interested in cleaning or housekeeping and how you meet the employer’s needs.
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Certifications: While not mandatory, certifications in cleaning techniques or workplace safety (e.g., WSQ Certificate in Environmental Cleaning) can boost your application.
Ensure your resume is free of errors and formatted clearly. Many employers prefer digital submissions, so save your documents as PDFs for compatibility.
4. Leverage Job Portals and Networking
To maximize your job search:
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Set Up Job Alerts: Create accounts on MyCareersFuture, Indeed, and JobStreet, and enable email notifications for new cleaning job postings.
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Contact Recruitment Agencies: Reach out to agencies specializing in foreign worker placement. Provide your resume and specify your interest in cleaning or housekeeping roles.
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Network: Connect with fellow countrymen already working in Singapore through community groups or social media platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn. They may provide job leads or employer referrals.
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X Platform: Search for job postings or employer reviews on X by using hashtags like #SingaporeJobs or #CleaningJobsSG. Engage with posts from recruitment agencies or employers to stay updated.
5. Prepare for Interviews
Once shortlisted, prepare for interviews to demonstrate your suitability:
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Practice Common Questions: Be ready to answer questions like “Why do you want to work in Singapore?” or “How do you handle physically demanding tasks?”
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Highlight Reliability: Employers value punctuality, diligence, and a positive attitude. Share examples of your work ethic, even from unrelated fields.
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Ask About Sponsorship: Confirm visa sponsorship details during the interview to avoid misunderstandings later.
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Virtual Interviews: Many employers conduct initial interviews via Zoom or phone, so ensure a stable internet connection and a quiet environment.
Dress neatly for in-person or video interviews. Wear professional attire and maintain eye contact to convey confidence. If English is not your first language, practice clear and simple responses to ensure effective communication.
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Cultural Awareness: Show respect for Singapore’s multicultural workplace by demonstrating adaptability and openness to teamwork.
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Follow-Up: After the interview, send a polite thank-you email to express gratitude and reaffirm your interest.
6. Understand Employment Contracts and Conditions
Once offered a job, carefully review the employment contract. Key points to check:
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Salary and Benefits: Confirm the monthly salary (typically S$1,300–S$1,800), overtime pay, and benefits like accommodation or meals.
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Working Hours: Cleaning jobs often involve shifts, including weekends or nights. Ensure clarity on schedules.
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Visa Sponsorship Terms: Verify that the employer will handle Work Permit costs and renewals.
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Termination Clauses: Understand notice periods and conditions for contract termination.
Consult MOM’s website for worker rights and protections to ensure fair treatment. Reputable employers adhere to MOM guidelines, including providing rest days and safe working conditions.
7. Adapt to Life in Singapore
After securing a job, prepare for life in Singapore:
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Cost of Living: Singapore is expensive, with accommodation and food being major expenses. Budget wisely, as cleaning jobs offer modest salaries.
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Housing: Some employers provide shared accommodation for foreign workers. If not, explore options like HDB rentals or dormitories.
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Cultural Integration: Respect Singapore’s strict laws (e.g., no littering, no chewing gum) and embrace its multicultural environment to build positive relationships.
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Support Networks: Join community groups or religious organizations for social support. MOM’s Migrant Workers’ Centre offers resources for foreign workers.
Tips for Success in Cleaning and Housekeeping Jobs
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Upskill: Enroll in short courses like the WSQ Environmental Cleaning programme to enhance your skills and increase earning potential.
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Build a Reputation: Demonstrate reliability and efficiency to secure promotions or better-paying roles within the company.
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Save and Plan: Save a portion of your income for future goals, such as further education or starting a business back home.
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Stay Informed: Follow MOM updates and job market trends on platforms like X to stay competitive.
Challenges to Anticipate
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Competition: The cleaning sector attracts many applicants, so persistence and a strong application are key.
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Language Barriers: Limited English proficiency can be a hurdle. Practice basic phrases and consider language classes.
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Physical Demands: Cleaning jobs require stamina. Maintain good health through proper diet and rest.
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Homesickness: Being away from family can be tough. Stay connected via affordable apps like WhatsApp or Zoom.
Where to Find Job Listings
In 2025, the following platforms and resources are recommended for cleaning and housekeeping jobs:
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MyCareersFuture.gov.sg: Official job portal with verified listings.
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sg.indeed.com and sg.jobstreet.com: Popular for entry-level roles.
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Recruitment Agencies: Agencies like Zenith Facility Services and ManpowerGroup Singapore offer visa sponsorship and job placement services.
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X Platform: Search for #SingaporeCleaningJobs or follow local recruitment accounts for real-time updates.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
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Avoid Illegal Work: Working without a valid Work Permit is illegal and can lead to deportation or fines.
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Beware of Scams: Avoid agencies charging high upfront fees without guaranteed job offers. Verify agency credentials with MOM.
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Worker Rights: MOM ensures fair wages, rest days, and safe conditions. Report violations to MOM’s helpline (1800-221-9922).
Conclusion
Securing cleaning and housekeeping jobs in Singapore as a foreigner is achievable with the right approach. By researching job opportunities, understanding visa requirements, preparing strong applications, and leveraging networks, you can land a role in this high-demand sector.
Singapore’s cleaning industry offers stable employment, visa sponsorship, and opportunities for growth, making it an attractive option for unskilled workers. Start your job search today, stay persistent, and take advantage of Singapore’s robust job market to build a rewarding career.
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