Jobs for Immigrants in Florida: Your Complete Guide

Florida has become one of the most popular destinations for immigrants starting a new life in the United States. With its booming economy, expanding industries, and diverse, welcoming communities, the Sunshine State offers endless opportunities to grow and succeed. Immigrants play a key role in Florida’s workforce. As of recent data, immigrants comprised about 26.6% of the labor force. That is more than one in four workers statewide. In Miami, a major hub for international talent, immigrants represent over 56% of the population and workforce. Their contributions are huge. Immigrant-led households in Florida held $139.6 billion in spending power in 2021, fueling the local economy significantly. With such strong participation in the workforce, many employers across Florida actively seek immigrant talent. Whether you are entering the job market for the first time or advancing your career, Florida offers an environment where ambition and hard work open doors. In this guide, we will explore why Florida is a great place for immigrants to build a career, which industries offer the best opportunities, and some of the employers that are always hiring. You'll also learn how to use our services to boost your chances with fast, affordable translation and evaluation services. Let’s get right into it!

Best Industries for Jobs for Immigrants in Florida

Florida’s economy is growing quickly, offering jobs for immigrants in many different fields. From tourism to healthcare and construction, immigrants play an important role in keeping the state running. Below are some of the best industries where immigrants in Florida can find work, along with real data and insights about each one.

Hospitality and Tourism

Tourism is Florida’s largest industry and a major source of jobs for immigrants. In 2023, the tourism sector generated $127.7 billion in economic impact and supported over 2.1 million jobs across the state visitflorida.org.

Immigrants are key workers in hotels, restaurants, theme parks, and cruise lines. From Miami Beach and Orlando to Tampa and Key West, they fill roles in guest services, food preparation, cleaning, and management. Florida’s theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, hire thousands of immigrant workers each year, many through international exchange and work programs.

The hospitality industry is also one of the best entry points for newcomers because it offers on-the-job training, flexible hours, and opportunities to grow into management or supervisory positions. Job listings for this sector can be found on the state’s official employment portal at FloridaJobs.org.

Agriculture and Food Systems

Florida is one of the country’s top agricultural producers, generating more than $100 billion in economic impact each year according to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The state leads in crops like citrus, sugarcane, tomatoes, and bell peppers, with thousands of farms across regions such as Immokalee, Plant City, and Belle Glade.

Immigrants make up nearly half of Florida’s agricultural workforce according to the American Immigration Council. They work in planting, harvesting, packaging, and food distribution, often through both seasonal and year-round employment. The agriculture sector is vital to Florida’s economy, feeding millions of Americans while creating local jobs and export revenue.

Many farmworkers also receive job assistance and training through the state’s CareerSource Florida program, which connects immigrants with agricultural employers who need reliable labor.

The Healthcare Industry in Florida

Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing industries in Florida. With one of the oldest populations in the United States, the state depends on nurses, caregivers, and healthcare technicians — many of whom are immigrants.

Immigrants make up almost one-third of home care workers and a large share of nursing and medical staff according to the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF). Hospitals like AdventHealth, Baptist Health South Florida, and Orlando Health employ thousands of international professionals each year.

Healthcare offers stable, well-paying jobs with opportunities to grow. Immigrants can begin in support roles such as nursing assistants, medical aides, or home health workers and later advance into licensed or specialized positions.

The Construction Industry in Florida

Florida’s construction industry continues to grow as more people move to the state. New housing, roads, schools, and businesses are being built every day, creating steady demand for skilled and entry-level workers alike. Immigrants fill jobs such as laborers, carpenters, electricians, roofers, and plumbers in both residential and commercial projects.

Construction jobs often offer competitive wages, on-site training, and long-term stability. Many employers also sponsor apprenticeships that help workers gain new skills and higher pay over time. The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity regularly publishes employment data showing construction as one of the top growth sectors in the state.

Transportation, Warehousing, and Logistics

Florida’s ports, airports, and highways make it one of America’s most important logistics hubs. Immigrants play a vital role in keeping goods and services moving throughout the state.

In 2023–2024, Florida’s ports handled over 113 million tons of cargo and supported more than 900,000 related jobs according to the Florida Ports Council. Jobs in this industry include truck driving, forklift operation, warehouse management, and shipping coordination. As e-commerce continues to grow, demand for logistics and delivery workers is expected to stay strong for years to come.

Where Immigrants Work Most in Florida

Immigrants are vital to Florida’s economy. They fill key jobs across agriculture, construction, transportation, and healthcare. The table below shows where immigrant workers make up the largest share of Florida’s labor force. These industries continue to offer strong job prospects and steady employment for newcomers.

These industries not only employ large numbers of immigrant workers, but they also offer career growth, steady income, and long-term opportunities across Florida’s major cities and rural areas. In the next section, we’ll look at specific employers in Florida that actively hire immigrants and the types of jobs they offer.

Employers in Florida That Hire Immigrants

Florida’s top employers recognize the value immigrants bring to their workforce. Many companies not only hire immigrants but also support international recruitment and sponsorship programs for qualified workers. From world-famous resorts to major healthcare systems and logistics networks, immigrants help power nearly every major industry in the state.

Below are some of the best-known employers in Florida that regularly hire immigrant workers.

Disney World and Universal Orlando

Florida’s tourism industry wouldn’t be the same without its world-famous theme parks. Walt Disney World in Orlando is the state’s largest single-site employer, with more than 75,000 employees. Many are immigrants working in hospitality, guest services, food preparation, and maintenance. Universal Orlando Resort also employs thousands of international workers through seasonal and exchange visitor programs.

These companies often recruit through partnerships with international staffing and student exchange programs, giving newcomers a way to gain work experience while improving their English and customer service skills. Tourism remains one of Florida’s most immigrant-friendly industries, especially for those new to the country.

AdventHealth and Baptist Health South Florida

Florida’s growing population creates a strong demand for healthcare professionals. AdventHealth, one of the largest nonprofit hospital systems in the United States, employs more than 90,000 team members across Florida. Many of its nurses, therapists, and support staff are immigrants who bring valuable multilingual and multicultural experience to patient care.

Baptist Health South Florida, based in Miami, has also been recognized as one of the state’s best employers for diversity and inclusion. Its network includes hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers that serve international communities throughout South Florida. Healthcare organizations like these often hire immigrants with foreign medical training, as long as they meet state licensing requirements.

Publix Super Markets

Publix Super Markets is one of Florida’s largest private employers, with over 240,000 employees across the southeastern United States. The company is known for promoting from within and offering steady jobs in customer service, logistics, and food production.

Publix welcomes immigrant workers across its grocery stores, bakeries, warehouses, and distribution centers. Because it operates in nearly every major Florida city, it’s a strong option for newcomers seeking stable, entry-level work with opportunities to advance. The company also supports bilingual employees who serve Florida’s diverse communities.

Lennar Corporation

As one of the nation’s leading homebuilders, Lennar Corporation plays a major role in Florida’s booming construction industry. The company employs thousands of construction workers, engineers, and project managers across the state. Many immigrant workers help build new homes in fast-growing areas like Orlando, Tampa, and South Florida.

Construction remains one of the top industries for immigrants in Florida, employing about 38 percent of the state’s construction workforce according to the American Immigration Council. Lennar and other major builders often partner with subcontractors who hire and train immigrant workers in carpentry, roofing, painting, and electrical trades.

Ryder System Inc.

Florida’s location makes it a hub for transportation and logistics, and Ryder System Inc., headquartered in Miami, is one of the state’s most important employers in this field. The company provides trucking, supply chain management, and warehouse services nationwide. Immigrants work as drivers, warehouse associates, and logistics coordinators — essential roles that keep Florida’s trade and delivery networks running smoothly.

The transportation and warehousing sector employs around 37 percent immigrant workers statewide according to the American Immigration Council. Ryder’s continued expansion in South Florida and Central Florida makes it a strong employer for immigrants with experience in logistics, delivery, or fleet maintenance.

Finding the Right Employer in Florida

Many large employers in Florida value diversity and international experience. Hospitals, universities, construction firms, and logistics companies all benefit from the unique skills immigrants bring. Whether you’re looking for a first job or aiming to continue your professional career, these employers offer opportunities for growth, stability, and advancement.

In the next section, we’ll explain how immigrants can legally work in Florida, including information about work permits, visas, and employment authorization documents (EADs).

How Can Immigrants Work in Florida

Immigrants can work in Florida legally as long as they have valid authorization. Florida’s workforce includes millions of foreign-born residents who hold jobs in hospitality, healthcare, construction, agriculture, and logistics. To work, you need a visa, a green card, or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Legal Work Authorization

Most immigrants work under one of three categories: a Permanent Resident Card, a work visa such as the H1B visa, or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

If you qualify for an EAD, you apply with Form I-765 and submit the required documents. For a plain-English overview of the process, see MotaWord’s guide to the EAD.

If you are targeting universities, nonprofits, or research entities, you may avoid the H-1B lottery by focusing on cap-exempt employers. Many skilled workers also strengthen filings with an expert opinion letter or a work experience evaluation when their education or duties need clarification.

Employer Verification and Compliance

Every employer must verify your identity and work eligibility using Form I-9. Many Florida employers also use E-Verify, which checks your authorization with the Department of Homeland Security. Keep your authorization current and save copies of your approval notices, I-94, and any receipts for pending renewals.

Credentials, Translations, and Licensing

If your documents are not in English, provide certified translations that meet USCIS standards. You can order certified translation for USCIS directly from MotaWord.

If your career depends on degree equivalency or a course-by-course review, see MotaWord’s guide to transcript evaluations. These ensure your foreign education is properly recognized by U.S. employers and licensing boards.

Status-Specific Work Options

• Green card holders may work for any employer in Florida.
• Temporary workers employed through the H1B visa or seasonal categories like H-2B must work for the sponsoring employer and follow their petition terms.
• Students (F-1) may work on campus or through OPT and CPT. See eligibility rules on the official DHS site.
• Asylum seekers and certain parolees can work with a valid EAD while their cases are pending; application steps are on USCIS.

Practical Tips to Get Hired Faster

1. Track expirations so your EAD, visa, or green card never lapses during hiring.
2. Assemble a simple credentials pack with your passport, I-94, approval notices, and certified translations.
3. Align your role with your status — for example, H-1B positions should match a specialty occupation. If the match is close, consider an expert opinion letter.
4. Use accurate job titles that match U.S. labor codes and your visa description.
5. Know your rights under U.S. wage and labor laws at the Department of Labor.

With the right authorization, accurate documentation, and professional translations, immigrants can build strong careers across Florida’s fastest-growing industries.

MotaWord Translation and Academic Evaluation Services

Starting a new life and career in Florida often begins with proper documentation. From diplomas and transcripts to birth certificates and legal papers, these documents help prove your education, experience, and identity. At MotaWord, we make this process simple, accurate, and stress-free.

We help immigrants in Florida succeed by providing:

• Certified translations of personal and professional documents accepted by USCIS, employers, and educational institutions.
• Academic evaluations that convert foreign degrees and transcripts into U.S. equivalents, helping your qualifications get the recognition they deserve.
• Professional expertise from our global network of translators and credential evaluators who understand the requirements of U.S. immigration and Florida employers.

Our mission is to remove language and credential barriers so that you can focus on your goals. Every translation and evaluation we deliver meets the highest standards of accuracy and confidentiality.

We take pride in helping immigrants showcase their achievements with confidence. When you’re ready to move forward, simply upload your documents through MotaWord’s secure online platform. We’ll deliver certified results quickly so you can take the next step in your career journey.

FAQ About Jobs for Immigrants in Florida

Finding a job in a new country can feel overwhelming, but Florida offers many opportunities for immigrants to build strong and rewarding careers. Below are answers to some of the most common questions immigrants have when starting work in Florida.

1. Can immigrants work in Florida without a work permit?

No. To work legally in Florida, immigrants must have proper authorization, such as a visa, a green card, or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Employers are required to verify this through the federal Form I-9 process.

2. What are the best jobs for immigrants in Florida?

Immigrants in Florida work in nearly every industry, but some fields are especially strong. Hospitality, healthcare, construction, agriculture, and transportation consistently offer reliable employment. These sectors also provide opportunities for both entry-level and skilled workers.

3. Do employers in Florida sponsor work visas for immigrants?

Yes. Some larger employers — including hospitals, construction companies, and international hospitality organizations — may sponsor work visas for qualified applicants. Sponsorship usually depends on your profession, experience level, and the company’s needs.

4. How can immigrants prove their foreign education or work experience to employers?

Employers and licensing agencies in Florida often require proof that your education or experience meets U.S. standards. At MotaWord, we help with certified translations and academic evaluations so your foreign credentials are accurately recognized. This ensures you can apply for jobs or professional licenses with confidence.

5. Are jobs for immigrants in Florida easy to find?

Yes, but competition can be strong. Florida’s economy is large and diverse, and new jobs are created every month. Immigrants who network with local communities, use official state job portals, and apply to companies known for hiring internationally have the best chances of success.

6. What documents should immigrants prepare before applying for jobs?

You should have your identification, Social Security number (if applicable), proof of work authorization, and certified translations of important documents, such as diplomas or work certificates. Having these ready helps employers process your application more efficiently and demonstrates professionalism.

Florida Jobs for Immigrants: Your Path to Success

Florida is one of the best places in the United States for immigrants to live, work, and build a better future. With its strong economy, diverse communities, and growing industries, the Sunshine State continues to welcome people from around the world who are ready to contribute their skills and dreams.

From the hotels of Miami to the hospitals of Orlando, from construction sites in Tampa to farms in Central Florida, immigrants are helping the state thrive. Every day, new arrivals find jobs, start businesses, and bring valuable experience that strengthens local communities.

If you’re an immigrant planning to work in Florida, preparation is key. Make sure your documents are translated, your credentials are evaluated, and your work authorization is up to date. With these steps in place, you’ll be ready to take advantage of Florida’s many opportunities, whether you’re looking for your first job or advancing in your career.

At MotaWord, we’re proud to support immigrants as they take these important steps. Our certified translations and academic evaluations help you present your qualifications clearly to employers, schools, and government agencies. We understand how important accuracy and speed are when you’re starting a new chapter in life, and we’re here to make the process smooth and reliable.

Your path to success in Florida starts with preparation, confidence, and the right support. Let us help you take the next step toward your goals. Upload your documents today and move forward with confidence.