Cleaner Jobs in Norway: A Comprehensive Guide
Working as a cleaner in Norway can be a solid opportunity for both locals and foreigners looking for steady employment in a developed economy. Cleaners are essential across many sectors—commercial buildings, offices, hotels, hospitals, schools, and residential spaces—helping to maintain hygiene and comfort in daily life. Here’s everything you need to know about what the job involves, how much you can earn, and how to find work in this field in Norway.
1. What Do Cleaners in Norway Do?
Cleaners in Norway perform a wide range of cleaning and maintenance tasks, depending on the workplace:
•General Cleaning: Sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, dusting, and trash removal in offices, schools, and public buildings.
•Specialized Cleaning: Window cleaning, floor maintenance with machines, and industrial cleaning in factories or production facilities.
•Hospitality Cleaning: Keeping hotel rooms, corridors, and shared spaces tidy.
•Sanitation & Hygiene: Cleaning restrooms, disinfecting surfaces, and keeping environments safe and presentable.
Most roles require physical stamina, reliability, and attention to detail. Formal education is often not required, but experience and professional cleaning skills (or training certificates) are advantages when applying.
2. Salary and Benefits
Wages for cleaners in Norway are generally competitive compared with many countries, reflecting Norway’s high standard of living and strong labor laws.
Typical Salary (2025)
•The average annual salary for a cleaner in Norway is about 420,000 NOK (~35,000 NOK/month) before tax.
•Salary can vary based on experience, location, and collective agreements. Cleaners in big cities like Oslo tend to earn more.
•With experience or vocational training, cleaners may earn higher wages.
Many employers also offer supplements (extra pay) for night shifts, weekends, and overtime work—especially under collective bargaining agreements common in Norwegian companies.
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3. Who Hires Cleaners in Norway?
Cleaners can find roles in:
•Cleaning and facility services companies (e.g., ISS, Coor, Toma Gruppen) that contract with many clients.
•Hotels and hospitality businesses needing room attendants and housekeeping staff.
•Offices, schools, hospitals, and public institutions with dedicated maintenance teams.
•Industrial and warehouse environments requiring both cleaning and light maintenance tasks.
Even without Norwegian language skills, some companies like Freska hire cleaners and offer an easy application process; they may prioritize attitude and willingness to learn over language fluency.
4. Requirements & Work Permits
For Norwegians and EEA/EU Citizens
•Citizens of Norway or countries in the EEA/EU generally have the right to live and work in Norway without special permits.
For Non-EU/EEA Nationals
•You need a valid work permit or visa to be employed legally. Employers can sometimes assist with visa sponsorship, especially for full-time positions.
•Cleaners may be hired under unskilled or worker permits if the employer can demonstrate the job isn’t easily filled locally.
Language Requirements:
•While many workplaces speak English and basic Norwegian can help, some employers may prefer workers who can communicate in Norwegian or English.
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5. How to Find Cleaning Jobs in Norway
Here are effective ways to apply :
Tip: A CV emphasizing reliability, physical work experience, and any cleaning training will improve your chances.
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6. Things to Keep in Mind
Labor Rights: Norway has strict labor laws—cleaners working under contract are entitled to fair wages, benefits, and safe working conditions. Always ensure your employment is legal and well-documented.
Language Skills: Norwegian is not always mandatory, but it increases opportunities and communication at work.
Growth Opportunities: With experience and training, cleaners can advance to supervisory or specialized cleaning roles.
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Conclusion
Cleaner jobs in Norway provide stable employment opportunities in a structured labor market. With competitive salaries, legal protections, and demand across many sectors, these roles can be a good fit for individuals seeking entry-level work or steady income. Whether you’re already in Norway or planning to move there for work, understanding the job expectations, wages, and visa requirements will help you pursue cleaner positions effecti
