Introduction
Canada, with its vast geography and booming logistics industry, continues to experience a persistent shortage of qualified truck drivers. As of 2025, the trucking sector remains one of the most critical industries supporting the Canadian economy, especially in facilitating the movement of goods across provinces and international borders. With the rising demand for supply chain efficiency and e-commerce growth, the need for experienced and entry-level truck drivers has reached new heights. This presents a timely opportunity for foreign workers seeking employment in Canada with visa sponsorship.
Many Canadian employers are actively looking abroad to fill these gaps by offering visa sponsorship to skilled foreign drivers. Provinces such as Alberta, Ontario, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan have introduced immigration-friendly policies to support the hiring of international workers in transportation roles. Foreign nationals who meet the minimum requirements—such as holding a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), possessing clean driving records, and demonstrating basic English or French proficiency—are especially welcomed under Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and certain Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Truck driving in Canada offers competitive wages, employer-sponsored relocation assistance, and potential pathways to permanent residency. For foreigners looking to build a stable career in Canada, this role offers long-term growth, excellent work conditions, and the chance to become a permanent resident through dedicated immigration streams for transportation workers. This guide provides an in-depth look at how to secure truck driver jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship in 2025, including application steps, job sources, salary insights, and employer expectations.
Entry Level Jobs for Immigrants (2025)
Below is a table of entry-level and mid-level transportation-related job opportunities in Canada that are open to foreigners and typically come with visa sponsorship.
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary (CAD) | Visa Sponsorship Availability | High-Demand Provinces | Work Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long Haul Truck Driver | $55,000 – $75,000 | Yes | Alberta, Ontario, Manitoba | Class 1/A license, 1+ year experience |
| Delivery Truck Driver | $42,000 – $55,000 | Yes (select employers) | British Columbia, Quebec | Class 5 license, English/French proficiency |
| Freight Hauler | $60,000 – $80,000 | Yes | Saskatchewan, Alberta | Valid license, clean driving record |
| Garbage Truck Driver | $45,000 – $60,000 | Limited | Ontario, Manitoba | On-the-job training may be required |
| Moving Company Driver | $40,000 – $52,000 | Yes (seasonal work possible) | Nationwide | Ability to lift heavy loads |
| Oil Field Truck Operator | $75,000 – $100,000 | Yes | Alberta | Experience in hazardous goods transport |
| Logging Truck Driver | $60,000 – $70,000 | Yes (seasonal or permanent) | British Columbia, Newfoundland | Road safety certification preferred |
Application Requirements and Documents
Foreign nationals who wish to work as truck drivers in Canada through visa sponsorship must meet several legal and professional criteria. Below are the common requirements and documents involved in securing such roles:
1. Valid Driver’s License
- A Class 1 (or Class A) license is generally required for long-haul and freight truck drivers.
- Depending on the province, foreign licenses may need to be converted or recognized through a provincial test.
2. Work Experience
- At least 1 year of recent commercial driving experience is typically required.
- Experience in long-haul trucking, handling trailers, and cross-border transport is advantageous.
3. Language Proficiency
- Applicants must demonstrate basic English or French proficiency—usually CLB Level 4 or higher.
- Language tests such as IELTS (General Training) or CELPIP may be required for immigration purposes.
4. Clean Driving and Criminal Record
- A clean driving record (abstract) is required, often from both the applicant’s home country and from Canadian authorities.
- Applicants must also provide police clearance certificates to prove they have no criminal history.
5. Medical Examination
- A mandatory medical exam is required under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
- The test checks vision, hearing, general health, and ability to perform the job safely.
6. Job Offer and LMIA
- Employers must secure a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to hire a foreign worker. This document proves no Canadian is available to fill the role.
- A formal job offer letter is also required, detailing salary, duties, hours, and duration.
7. Work Permit Application
- Once LMIA is approved, foreign workers can apply for a work permit.
- Required documents:
- Passport
- Job offer letter
- LMIA copy
- Proof of qualifications
- Medical exam results
- Police certificate
Employment Websites to Find Opportunities
Foreign applicants can find visa-sponsored truck driver jobs in Canada through reputable job boards, government listings, and immigration-focused recruitment portals.
| Website | Description |
|---|---|
| Job Bank Canada | Official Canadian government job portal—filter by “LMIA approved” jobs |
| Indeed Canada | Large job board with advanced filters—search “visa sponsorship truck driver” |
| CanadaJobs.com | General employment portal with listings for all provinces |
| Truck Driver Jobs Canada | Industry-specific portal focused on driver recruitment |
| Workopolis | General job board—many listings for skilled and entry-level driving positions |
| eJobbo | Highlights LMIA-approved employers and visa programs |
| Canadim | Immigration law firm offering job-matching for visa-eligible roles |
| HIRE Trucking | Dedicated to Canadian transportation jobs and driver placement |
| Canadian Driver Directory | Resources and forums for truck drivers in Canada and internationally |
| Use to network directly with HR staff and recruiters in the Canadian logistics sector |
Conclusion
Canada’s labor shortage in the trucking and logistics industry has created a golden opportunity for foreigners looking to immigrate and build a career in the country. With competitive salaries, stable employment, and a structured path to permanent residency, truck driving jobs in Canada are among the most accessible and rewarding options for skilled foreign workers.
In 2025, the combination of growing freight demand, aging domestic workforce, and expanded immigration quotas has led many companies to actively sponsor international drivers. Through government-supported programs like the TFWP and PNP, foreign nationals can legally enter the country, gain valuable work experience, and eventually settle permanently.
To maximize your chances of success, ensure that your documentation is in order, stay informed on provincial requirements, and apply only through verified and legitimate job portals. As a Canadian consular specialist, I encourage applicants to consult with RCIC-certified immigration consultants or employment lawyers to guide them through each step of the application process.
Ready to start your journey? Explore LMIA-approved job offers today, polish your resume, and prepare to take the wheel toward a new life in Canada.
