Canada is currently facing a major shortage of qualified truck drivers, and this has opened up incredible job opportunities for foreigners with the right skills and experience.
If you’re looking to move abroad, secure a stable job, and possibly gain permanent residency, this detailed guide explains how to find truck driver jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship, what qualifications you need, and how to apply successfully.
Why Canada Needs Foreign Truck Drivers
Canada’s economy relies heavily on transportation and logistics — but the trucking industry is experiencing a serious labor shortage. Many experienced drivers are retiring, and freight demand keeps increasing.
According to the Canadian Trucking Alliance, the shortage has reached more than 20,000 truck drivers, and that number continues to rise.
Because of this, many Canadian companies are now open to hiring international truck drivers through official visa sponsorship programs to fill the gap.
Salary and Benefits of Truck Drivers in Canada
Truck driving in Canada pays well, especially for long-haul and specialized routes. Here’s an overview:
- Long-haul drivers: CAD $60,000 – $80,000 per year
- Local or regional drivers: CAD $45,000 – $65,000 per year
- Owner-operators: CAD $100,000 + (after expenses)
Common benefits include:
- Health and dental insurance
- Overtime pay
- Housing assistance (in some companies)
- Visa and relocation support
- Possible pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) for qualified drivers
Visa and Sponsorship Programs for Truck Drivers
Below are the main visa programs available for foreign truck drivers seeking work in Canada:
1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
Most visa-sponsored truck driver jobs are processed through the TFWP.
Under this program, employers must prove that no Canadian workers are available for the position by obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Steps to apply under TFWP:
- Secure a job offer from an approved Canadian employer.
- Employer applies for an LMIA.
- Once approved, apply for your work permit.
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Many provinces include truck driving as an in-demand occupation.
If you secure employment in one of these provinces, you can apply for nomination, which may lead to Permanent Residency.
Popular PNP options include:
- Saskatchewan (SINP)
- Alberta (AINP)
- Manitoba (MPNP)
- British Columbia (BC PNP)
3. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
This program helps employers in the Atlantic provinces — Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island — hire foreign workers.
The process is employer-driven and often does not require an LMIA, making it faster and easier.
Requirements to Work as a Truck Driver in Canada
To qualify for truck driver jobs in Canada, you must meet the following criteria:
- A valid driver’s license from your home country and a clean driving record
- A Canadian Class 1/A license (or willingness to obtain it upon arrival)
- Air Brake Endorsement (Z) – required for most trucking positions
- At least 2 years of verifiable driving experience
- Basic proficiency in English or French (CLB 4 or higher)
- Ability to pass a medical exam and background check
Some employers also help foreign hires convert their driver’s license once they arrive in Canada.
Where to Find Truck Driver Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Here are some of the most trusted platforms and resources to search for visa-sponsored driving jobs:
- Job Bank Canada – jobbank.gc.ca
- Indeed Canada – search using keywords like “LMIA available” or “visa sponsorship”
- Workopolis and JobServe – reputable job portals for immigrants
- Recruitment agencies that specialize in international placement
- Company websites – many large transportation companies post open sponsorship roles directly
Leading trucking companies hiring foreign drivers:
- Bison Transport
- TransX Group of Companies
- Canada Cartage
- Challenger Motor Freight
- Kriska Transportation Group
How to Apply for Truck Driver Jobs in Canada
Follow these key steps when applying:
- Prepare a Canadian-style resume and cover letter – highlight your professional driving experience, safety record, and licenses.
- Get an International Driving Permit (IDP) if available in your country.
- Research target provinces to know which ones currently list truck drivers as in-demand.
- Apply only through official job portals or registered agencies to avoid scams.
- Take a language test (IELTS General or CELPIP) if required by your employer or province.
- Once you receive a job offer, your employer will start the LMIA and visa process.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Hired
- Emphasize your driving safety record and reliability.
- Get endorsements such as hazardous materials or long-haul certification.
- Stay flexible with provinces and job offers — rural areas often hire faster.
- Be patient but consistent — immigration processes can take several months.
- Keep all your documents and references well organized.
Final Thoughts
If you have the right skills, experience, and determination, becoming a truck driver in Canada with visa sponsorship is a realistic and rewarding goal.
With strong demand, competitive pay, and programs like TFWP, PNP, and AIP, foreign drivers now have multiple pathways to build a stable career and even obtain permanent residency in Canada.
Start your application today — Canada’s highways are waiting for skilled drivers like you.