Explore top truck driver jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship in 2025. Discover industry demand, salary expectations, job types, eligibility, and application steps for foreign applicants.
Canada’s vast geography and booming economy make transportation one of its most vital industries — and at the center of it all are truck drivers. These professionals are not just road warriors; they are the backbone of Canada’s supply chain, ensuring goods get from coast to coast efficiently. From fresh produce and retail stock to construction materials and industrial freight, trucks move over 60% of all goods across the country.
As demand for consumer products and e-commerce grows, so too does the need for reliable, skilled truck drivers. Recognizing the shortfall of qualified drivers, Canadian employers are turning to international talent — and visa sponsorship is opening new doors for foreign applicants looking to work in Canada legally and long-term.
Whether you’re a seasoned long-haul driver or new to the profession, Canada offers solid career prospects, competitive salaries, and immigration-friendly pathways for truck drivers ready to make the move.
The Demand for Truck Drivers in Canada
Canada’s trucking sector is experiencing a workforce shortage that’s expected to intensify over the coming years. With an aging workforce and rising demand for delivery services, especially in rural and interprovincial areas, there’s a pressing need to attract new drivers — both locally and from abroad.
According to the Canadian Trucking Alliance, the country is already short over 18,000 truck drivers, with projections showing more than 70,000 vacancies expected by 2024. This surge in demand presents a golden opportunity for foreign drivers looking to build a future in Canada’s logistics industry.
These roles span across long-haul routes, regional deliveries, and specialized transport jobs. Employers are particularly keen to hire drivers who are safety-conscious, well-trained, and open to working flexible schedules — and they’re often willing to support the immigration process for the right candidates.
Why Choose Truck Driving Jobs in Canada?
✔ Steady Demand & Job Security
The trucking industry in Canada is considered essential, with goods constantly needing transport regardless of economic ups and downs. Truck drivers rarely face mass layoffs, making this one of the most secure blue-collar professions in the country.
✔ Competitive Salaries & Benefits
Drivers earn between CAD 50,000 and CAD 80,000+ annually depending on experience, type of cargo, and distance traveled. Some companies offer bonuses, paid overtime, health insurance, and retirement contributions.
✔ Opportunities for Career Growth
From starting as a local delivery driver to advancing into fleet management or becoming an owner-operator, trucking offers career progression and entrepreneurship opportunities.
✔ Immigration Support
Many companies are open to hiring foreign workers and will sponsor eligible candidates through the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process, making it easier to secure a work permit.
Visa Sponsorship: How It Works
Visa sponsorship in Canada begins when a Canadian employer expresses the intent to hire a foreign worker by applying for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This document proves that no local candidate is available for the role and that hiring a foreigner won’t negatively impact Canada’s workforce.
After LMIA approval:
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The foreign worker can apply for a Canadian work permit.
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The permit allows them to legally live and work in Canada for the duration of the job contract.
Several reputable trucking companies actively offer visa sponsorship for qualified international applicants. These include:
| S/N | Trucking Company Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Bison Transport |
| 2 | Trimac Transportation |
| 3 | Kelsey Trail Trucking |
| 4 | Hank’s Transport |
These companies often list openings for long-haul drivers and regional delivery roles across various provinces, especially in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Ontario.
Average Salaries and Benefits for Truck Drivers in Canada
| S/N | Job Type | Average Salary (CAD/year) | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Long-Haul Truck Driver | 60,000 – 85,000 | Bonus pay, per diem, accommodation allowances |
| 2 | Local Delivery Driver | 45,000 – 60,000 | Health insurance, regular hours |
| 3 | Specialized Cargo Driver | 70,000 – 90,000+ | Hazard pay, training incentives |
Eligibility Requirements for Foreign Truck Drivers with Visa Sponsorship
To work as a truck driver in Canada, foreign applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Valid Job Offer from a Canadian employer willing to sponsor.
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Positive LMIA from the employer.
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Work Permit issued by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).
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Relevant Driver’s License (usually a Class 1, Class A, or equivalent).
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Language Proficiency: English or French, with proof through tests like IELTS or CLB scores.
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Clean Criminal Record and good health status.
Driver’s License & Language Requirements
License Requirements:
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Home Country Driver’s License (initially valid in Canada for up to 90 days in some provinces).
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International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended.
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To drive professionally, most provinces will require:
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Canadian Commercial Driver’s License (Class 1/A).
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Pass knowledge and road tests based on provincial laws.
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Language Proficiency:
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English or French fluency is essential.
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May require results from an approved test (IELTS General or CELPIP).
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Effective communication is critical for safety, reporting, and navigation.
Types of Truck Driver Jobs with Visa Sponsorship Available
Canada’s trucking sector offers diverse opportunities. Depending on experience and interest, drivers can work in:
1. Long-Haul Trucking
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Cross-province or international (US–Canada) deliveries.
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Extended hours, overnights, and road trips of 1,000+ km.
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Requires endurance, time management, and route planning.
2. Specialized Transport
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Transporting hazardous materials, oversized equipment, or refrigerated goods.
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Needs special training and permits.
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Higher pay due to complexity and risk.
3. Local & Regional Delivery
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Operates within a city or province.
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Regular hours, multiple daily stops.
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Ideal for those seeking work-life balance.
Sectors Offering Truck Driver Jobs
| S/N | Sector | Job Role Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Transportation Companies | Long-haul or cross-border trucking |
| 2 | Freight Logistics Firms | Heavy cargo and machinery delivery |
| 3 | Specialized Cargo Firms | Hazardous or oversized goods |
| 4 | Retail & Distribution Hubs | Store-to-warehouse deliveries |
| 5 | Agricultural Supply Chains | Produce and farm equipment transport |
Final Thoughts
Canada’s trucking industry is wide open for skilled drivers — and with visa sponsorship programs actively supporting immigration, now is the perfect time to seize this opportunity. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or entering the field for the first time, the industry offers job security, great pay, and a chance to live and work in one of the world’s most welcoming countries.
If you’re ready to steer your career forward, take the first step by researching Canadian trucking firms with open LMIA-approved positions. Your next chapter in Canada could be just a few kilometers — and a visa — away.
FAQs About Truck Driver Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship
1. Can I get a trucking job in Canada without Canadian experience?
Yes. Many employers offer training for foreign drivers and sponsor work permits through LMIA if they cannot find local workers.
2. Is a special license required to drive trucks in Canada?
Yes, you’ll need a Canadian Commercial Driver’s License (Class 1 or A), which may require additional testing depending on the province.
3. How long does visa sponsorship take?
The LMIA and work permit process can take 3–6 months, depending on processing times and document readiness.
4. What’s the best province for truck driving jobs?
Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, and Manitoba have high demand due to industrial activities and trade routes.
5. Can truck drivers bring their families?
Yes. With a valid work permit, many drivers can apply for open work permits for spouses and study permits for children.