Canada is currently facing a national shortage of qualified truck drivers, and this labor gap has opened doors for international candidates. With the Canadian transportation sector expanding and the demand for logistics growing, many employers are offering truck driver jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship. For foreign nationals with the right experience and certifications, this is an excellent opportunity to secure a stable, high-paying job and possibly permanent residency.
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In this article, we’ll explore the latest truck driving opportunities in Canada, visa sponsorship options, and how foreign workers can apply.
Why Canada Needs Foreign Truck Drivers
Canada relies heavily on the trucking industry to move goods across its vast geography. Due to an aging workforce and increased freight demand, the country is experiencing a shortage of over 20,000 truck drivers, according to the Canadian Trucking Alliance.
This shortfall has pushed many transportation companies and employers to hire international truck drivers through visa sponsorship, particularly under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
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Salary and Benefits for Truck Drivers in Canada
Truck driving in Canada is a well-paid profession. Salaries vary based on province, employer, and the type of haul (long-haul, local, freight-specific).
Average Salary:
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Long-haul drivers: $60,000 – $80,000 CAD per year
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Local and regional drivers: $45,000 – $65,000 CAD per year
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Owner-operators: $100,000+ CAD annually (after expenses)
Benefits May Include:
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Medical and dental insurance
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Overtime pay
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Housing support
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Immigration assistance
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Pathways to permanent residency
Visa Options for Truck Drivers in Canada
1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
Most truck drivers are hired through the TFWP, which allows Canadian employers to bring in foreign workers when qualified Canadians are not available. The employer must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to prove that hiring a foreign driver is necessary.
Steps:
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Secure a job offer from an LMIA-approved employer
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Employer submits LMIA application
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Once approved, the worker applies for a work permit
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Some provinces include truck drivers in their in-demand occupation lists, which allows foreign drivers to apply for permanent residency through the PNP while working in Canada.
Popular provinces include:
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Saskatchewan (SINP)
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Alberta (AINP)
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Manitoba (MPNP)
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British Columbia (BC PNP)
3. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Truck drivers can also apply through the Atlantic Immigration Program, which is employer-driven and covers provinces like Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Employers do not need an LMIA under this program, making it faster and easier to hire foreign truck drivers.
Qualifications for Truck Driver Jobs in Canada
To be eligible for a truck driving job with visa sponsorship in Canada, you typically need:
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A valid foreign driver’s license with clean driving history
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Class 1/A driver’s license (can be obtained in Canada after arrival)
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Air Brake Endorsement (Z)
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Minimum 2 years of professional truck driving experience
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English or French language proficiency (CLB 4 or above)
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Ability to pass medical exams and background checks
Some employers may assist with training and licensing conversion once you arrive in Canada.
Where to Find Truck Driver Jobs With Sponsorship
Here are platforms and resources where you can find truck driver jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship:
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Job Bank Canada – www.jobbank.gc.ca
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Indeed Canada – Use filters like “LMIA available” or “visa sponsorship”
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Canada Immigration Job Portals – e.g., JobServe, Workopolis
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Recruitment agencies specializing in immigration
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Direct applications to trucking companies (many advertise sponsorship)
Top companies often hiring include:
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Bison Transport
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TransX Group of Companies
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Canada Cartage
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Challenger Motor Freight
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Kriska Transportation Group
Tips for Securing a Truck Driver Job with Visa Sponsorship
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Tailor your resume for Canadian employers and highlight international driving experience
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Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before applying
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Pass English language tests if required (IELTS General recommended)
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Research the province’s PNP eligibility before choosing an employer
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Avoid job scams and apply only through trusted channels
Conclusion
With a high demand for skilled labor and a growing economy, Canada offers excellent opportunities for foreign truck drivers looking to build a career and life abroad. Whether through the TFWP, PNP, or AIP, there are legitimate and well-paying truck driver jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship available in 2025.
By understanding the requirements, targeting the right employers, and preparing a strong application, international drivers can find long-term success and even transition to permanent residency in Canada.
Start your journey today — Canada’s roads are open for skilled drivers from around the world.
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