Industries that hire the most
- Tourism and hospitality: theme parks, hotels, restaurants and the convention center.
- Construction: homes, roads and commercial projects across the region.
- Healthcare: hospitals (AdventHealth, Orlando Health), clinics and home care.
- Logistics: warehouses, distribution and the airport.
- Tech, simulation and aerospace: especially around UCF and Lake Nona.
Speaking Spanish is a real advantage in customer service, healthcare, sales and public services. Put it on your résumé.
Where to look
Documents they’ll ask for
When you’re hired, the employer must verify you’re authorized to work (Form I-9). In Florida, private employers with 25 or more employees must also use E-Verify. You’ll be asked for documents such as a passport with a work visa, a green card, a work permit (EAD), or a driver’s license plus a Social Security card.
Florida minimum wage
Florida’s minimum wage goes up every September 30, as voters approved in 2020:
- As of September 30, 2026: $15.00 per hour
- Tipped jobs: $11.98 per hour plus tips (if tips don’t bring you to $15, the employer must make up the difference)
If you work more than 40 hours in a week, most jobs must pay you time and a half for the overtime.
Your rights (even without papers)
- You have the right to be paid for every hour you work.
- If you aren’t paid, you can file a complaint with the Department of Labor. They don’t ask about immigration status.
- If you’re hurt at work, you’re often entitled to workers’ compensation. Tell your boss in writing and see a doctor.
- Keep your own record of hours and photos of your pay stubs.
If you were a professional back home
Engineers, nurses, teachers, accountants and lawyers can work in their field here, but almost always need:
- A credential evaluation of their degrees (for example, from WES or Josef Silny).
- A Florida license for their profession, sometimes with an exam.
- Strong English.
Meanwhile, look for related jobs where your experience counts (assistant, technician, interpreter).
A real job never charges you to be hired, for a uniform or for training. Nor will it ask you to receive and reship packages, or cash checks and send the money back — that’s fraud, and you can be blamed for it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Florida minimum wage in 2026?
As of September 30, 2026, Florida’s minimum wage is $15.00 per hour. For tipped jobs it is $11.98 per hour plus tips.
Can I complain about unpaid wages if I’m undocumented?
Yes. Wage laws protect all workers. The federal Department of Labor does not ask about immigration status.
This guide is informational and is not a substitute for advice from a lawyer or other professional. Laws and requirements change — always confirm with the official source. See something out of date? Email us at hola@soyorlando.com.