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Truck Driver Jobs In Canada With VISA Scholarship 2025 – How To Apply

As an experienced truck driver, you may be considering opportunities beyond your home country’s borders. Canada, with its booming economy and major highway infrastructure spanning coast to coast, offers attractive prospects for foreign truck drivers. Obtaining the proper work authorization to drive commercially in Canada does require navigating the complex immigration system, but for qualified candidates, trucking companies will sponsor work visas.

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If you have a proven track record of safe driving, the required licenses and certifications, and English language proficiency, you could land one of the many truck driver jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship in 2025. This guide will walk you through the key steps to make this a reality. With some preparation and persistence, you’ll be cruising the open road in the Canadian countryside in no time.

Truck Driver Shortage in Canada Creates Job Opportunities

Canada is currently experiencing a shortage of truck drivers, which creates numerous job openings in the trucking industry. According to Trucking HR Canada, the trucking sector will need over 34,000 new motorists by 2025 to meet demand.

With numerous educated motorists retiring, there’s an adding demand for good campaigners to fill these positions. Truck driving jobs in Canada that offer VISA sponsorship are particularly appealing for foreign workers looking to immigrate. These roles provide a path to permanent residency through Express Entry.
To become a truck driver in Canada, you must hold the proper license for the vehicle class you want to operate. The most common types are Class 1, 2, or 3 licenses. You will need a clean driving record, be over the age of 21, and pass knowledge and road tests. Some trucking companies may require additional training or certification.
Driving a truck can be a rewarding career. According to Workopolis, the average truck driver’s salary in Canada is $65,000 per year. Compensation often depends on factors like experience, license class, type of cargo, and routes.

Benefits frequently offered with truck driving jobs include health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and VISA sponsorship. Top employers like Bison Transport, Day & Ross Transportation Group, and TFI International are always looking to fill positions.

If you’re interested in becoming a truck driver in Canada, start by researching the different license classes and their requirements. Look for entry-level roles at reputable companies to gain valuable experience. With time and a proven safety record, more opportunities will open up. A career as a long-haul truck driver can provide a stable income and a chance at permanent Canadian residency.

Requirements for Truck Driving Jobs in Canada

To qualify for truck driving jobs in Canada that offer visa sponsorship, you must meet several requirements.
Education and Training

Most companies prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. You will also need a valid commercial driver’s license for the specific vehicle class you will operate, obtained by passing knowledge and road tests. Some provinces require additional certifications. Ongoing training is typically provided.

Experience

While not always mandatory, most employers prefer candidates with at least 2 years of experience driving similar vehicles. Experience driving in varying conditions is ideal. Applicants with no experience may still be considered for entry-level positions if willing to complete company-provided training.

Essential Skills

Strong communication, time management, customer service, and problem-solving skills are essential. You must be able to drive for extended periods, load and unload cargo, perform vehicle inspections and minor repairs, and keep detailed logs. Fluency in English or French is typically required.

Medical Requirements

You must meet strict medical standards regarding vision, hearing, motor skills, and overall health. Drug and alcohol screening is mandatory. Some positions may require additional testing.

Additional Considerations

A clean driving record is usually required. Willingness to travel within a region or province and be away from home for days or weeks at a time is typical. Most sponsoring companies assist with accommodation and travel needs. Positions often come with competitive pay, benefits, and annual salary increases.

Opportunities abound for qualified truck drivers in Canada. By ensuring you meet the key requirements, you will be on the road to an exciting new career.

Top Companies Offering Truck Driver Jobs With VISA Sponsorship

To drive as a truck driver in Canada under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, you will need a job offer from an employer willing to sponsor your work permit. Some of the top companies hiring foreign truck drivers and providing VISA sponsorship in Canada include:

Bison Transport

Bison Transport is one of the largest trucking companies in Canada, offering job opportunities for long-haul truck drivers, local truck drivers, and owner-operators. They frequently hire foreign truck drivers and provide sponsorship for work permits.

SLH Transport

SLH Transport is a transportation and logistics company that operates throughout Canada and parts of the United States. They hire truck drivers for long-haul, local, and regional routes and will sponsor qualified foreign drivers for work permits to drive in Canada.

A & D Transport/A & D Logistics

A & D Transport and A & D Logistics are sister companies focused on transportation and logistics across Canada. They hire long-haul, local, and regional truck drivers and provide VISA sponsorship and work permits for foreign truck drivers who meet their hiring criteria.

To apply for truck driving jobs with VISA sponsorship in Canada, you will need to meet the following basic requirements:

  • Have a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) for the class of vehicle you will drive. Certain provinces may require additional licenses or permits.
  • Provide a current, clean driving record and background check.
  • Have at least 2 years of verifiable driving experience in a similar vehicle. Some companies may require more experience.
  • Meet language requirements – Most companies require English and/or French language proficiency.
  • Be in good health – You will need to pass a medical exam to ensure you meet safety standards.
  • Have a passport – Required for entering Canada to obtain your work permit.
  • Be willing to commit to a fixed-term contract, typically 1-2 years. Some companies may provide an opportunity to extend.

Following the application process for the specific companies you are interested in will maximize your chances of obtaining a truck driving job in Canada with VISA sponsorship. Do your research, meet all the requirements, and be prepared for the additional obligations that come with a sponsored work permit.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Work Visa as a Truck Driver in Canada

To obtain a work visa as a truck driver in Canada, follow these steps:

  • Research job opportunities and requirements

Search online for “truck driver jobs in Canada” and explore companies currently hiring foreign workers. Review the job requirements and qualifications to ensure you meet the necessary criteria, such as a certain number of years of driving experience. Make note of the specific types of commercial driver’s licenses and endorsements the companies prefer or require.

  • Apply for any necessary licensing or endorsements

If needed, obtain additional licensing or endorsements to drive the specific vehicle types the companies utilize, e.g. tractor-trailers, tankers, etc. The licensing and application process can take several months, so start this early.

  • Prepare a strong resume

Create a polished resume highlighting your relevant work experience, skills, training, and licenses. Emphasize any international driving experience. Have a friend or family member review your resume for any errors before applying.

  • Apply for jobs and interview

Apply for truck driver positions you are interested in and well-qualified for. If selected for an interview, prepare thoroughly by researching the company and role in depth. Dress professionally, arrive a few minutes early, bring copies of your resume, and be ready to discuss your experience, qualifications, career goals, and reasons for wanting to immigrate to Canada.

  • Obtain a job offer

If a company wants to hire you, they will provide an official job offer outlining salary, benefits, start date, and length of the contract. Review and sign the offer to accept the position.

  • Apply for a work permit

With a job offer in hand, you can now apply for a Canadian work permit. Follow the application instructions on the Government of Canada website. The process typically takes 3 to 4 months. If approved, the work permit will allow you to legally work as a truck driver in Canada for a specified period, usually 1-2 years.

Tips for Finding the Best Truck Driving Job Opportunities in Canada

To find the best truck driving jobs in Canada that offer VISA sponsorship, focus your search on companies that regularly hire foreign workers. Some tips to keep in mind:

  • Search job sites that specialize in truck driving roles.

Websites like Indeed, Monster, and Craigslist frequently post openings for truck drivers in Canada. Set up alerts for new listings containing keywords like “truck driver,” “VISA sponsorship” and “work permit.” Apply as soon as possible to increase your chances.

  • Build a strong resume.

Emphasize any truck driving experience, licenses, or certifications you hold. Discuss your safe driving record and motivation for the role. Some employers may require additional screening like a background check, so be prepared to provide references and work history verification.

  • Consider temporary foreign worker programs.

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program and International Mobility Program can facilitate hiring foreign truck drivers. Research which pilot projects or streams you may be eligible for based on your country of citizenship and qualifications. Employers enrolled in these programs are authorized to support VISA applications for qualified candidates.

  • Be willing to start with an entry-level role.

For candidates with less experience, it may be easier to find a truck driving job in Canada that offers VISA sponsorship if you are open to an entry-level position. These roles typically have higher turnover, so companies are often recruiting to fill them. You can then gain valuable Canadian experience to qualify for more advanced jobs.

  • Network whenever possible.

Attend industry events and connect with as many trucking companies as possible that operate in Canada. Even if they are not currently hiring, building a relationship can lead to new opportunities. Some may be willing to sponsor VISAs for candidates they have gotten to know, especially if there are future labor shortages. Stay in regular contact and express your ongoing interest in roles with their organization.

With determination and the right strategy, you can land a truck driving job in Canada that will sponsor your work permit. Finding an employer to support your VISA is key to making the move, so focus your efforts on those most likely to hire foreign workers. With experience and time, you can advance your career as a truck driver in Canada.

Conclusion

There are many opportunities for truck drivers in Canada, and the demand is high. With the proper preparation by researching the requirements, obtaining the necessary license and certification, and finding employers willing to sponsor work visas, you can land one of these jobs and experience living and working in Canada. While the process requires patience and perseverance, the rewards of gaining valuable work experience, earning a good salary, and living in a new country can make the effort worthwhile. If driving trucks and adventure appeal to you, start doing your homework and prepare to shift your career into high gear in Canada.

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