Dishwasher Jobs With Visa Sponsorship in the USA 2026

Dishwasher Jobs With Visa Sponsorship in the USA

The hospitality and restaurant industry in the United States is one of the most dynamic sectors of the economy, and it relies heavily on the hard work of back-of-house staff. Among these roles, dishwashers (often referred to as kitchen stewards or porters) are essential for maintaining the hygiene and flow of a busy kitchen. For international workers, obtaining a dishwasher job with visa sponsorship is a popular entry point into the U.S. workforce, particularly through seasonal and permanent visa programs.

Why is There a Demand for Dishwashers?

Restaurants, luxury resorts, and hotels across the country face consistent labor shortages. The role of a dishwasher is vital because:

Kitchen Efficiency: Without clean plates, cutlery, and cookware, the entire service grinds to a halt.
Hygiene Standards: Dishwashers ensure that all equipment meets strict health and safety regulations.
Entry-Level Access: This role typically requires no prior experience or advanced degrees, making it accessible to many applicants.

Common Visa Pathways for Dishwashers

For foreigners, there are two primary legal routes to working as a dishwasher in the USA:

1. H-2B Visa (Temporary/Seasonal)

The H-2B visa is the most common path for dishwashers. It allows U.S. employers to hire foreign nationals for non-agricultural seasonal work.

Duration: Typically up to 9 months, though it can be extended for up to 3 years.
Ideal for: Summer resorts, winter ski lodges, and hotels in tourist-heavy areas (like Mackinac Island, MI, or coastal Florida).
Key Benefit: Many H-2B employers provide housing assistance and may cover travel and visa costs.

2. EB-3 Visa (Permanent/Green Card)

The EB-3 visa (specifically the “Other Workers” subcategory) is for unskilled labor that is not seasonal or temporary.

Duration: Leads to a permanent Green Card.
The Process: Requires a “PERM” Labor Certification, where the employer proves they cannot find a qualified U.S. worker.
Ideal for: Large restaurant chains or industrial kitchens looking for long-term stability.

Qualifications and Requirements

While you don’t need a university degree, you will typically need to meet these criteria:

Physical Stamina: The ability to stand for long hours and lift heavy racks of dishes (up to 50 lbs/23 kg).
Basic English: Enough to follow safety instructions and communicate with the kitchen team.
Reliability: In a fast-paced kitchen, showing up on time and working efficiently is the most valued skill.
Clean Background: You must pass a standard background check for visa eligibility.

How to Find Sponsoring Employers

Finding a dishwasher job with sponsorship requires looking in the right places:

SeasonalJobs.dol.gov: The official U.S. government portal where employers list H-2B jobs before they are allowed to hire foreigners. Search for “Dishwasher” or “Kitchen Steward.”
Specialized Agencies: Companies like Alliance Abroad or Yummy Jobs specialize in international recruitment for the hospitality sector.
ZipRecruiter & H2 Job Board: Use keywords like “Dishwasher H2B” or “Visa Sponsorship Kitchen” to filter through commercial job sites.
Resort Locations: Target large-scale operations in tourism hubs (e.g., Hilton, Marriott, or independent luxury resorts in states like Colorado, Michigan, and California).

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

Identify Sponsoring Employers: Use the platforms mentioned above to find active H-2B or EB-3 listings.
Submit Application: Highlight your willingness to learn and your reliability.
Interview: Most interviews are conducted virtually. Focus on your work ethic and flexibility.
Receive a Job Offer: Ensure the offer explicitly states they will handle the visa sponsorship.
Employer Files Petition: The employer files form I-129 (for H-2B) or I-140 (for EB-3) with USCIS.
Consular Interview: Visit the U.S. Embassy in your home country for a final visa interview.

Important Note: Be wary of anyone asking for large sums of money upfront for a “guaranteed” visa. Legitimate H-2B employers are often required by law to cover most of your recruitment and visa-related costs.

Moving to the USA as a dishwasher is a practical way to gain international experience, earn a competitive wage ($12–$20 per hour depending on the state), and build a foundation for future career growth in the culinary arts.