A recent study suggests that in 2024, Canada will need 48,000 more long-haul truckers. This is good news for people considering moving to Canada for trucking jobs.
The demand for long-haul truck drivers in Canada is high, and the government supports foreign workers by offering work visas to those qualified for truck driving jobs in the country.
TRUCK DRIVER JOB REQUIREMENTS WITH VISA SPONSORSHIP
Let’s look at what you need to become a truck driver in Canada, especially if you’re a foreigner seeking a job with visa sponsorship. Here are the key requirements:
1. Types of Jobs:
Truck driving jobs in Canada vary in terms of hours, including full-time, part-time, overtime, weekend, day, night, and overnight shifts.
2. Education:
While having a high school diploma is preferred, it’s not a must for this position.
3. Driving Skills:
Having strong driving skills is important, but it’s not absolutely necessary.
4. Language Skills:
Basic English communication skills are essential.
5. Certifications and Licenses:
You’ll need various certifications, licenses, memberships, and completion of specific courses for this job.
6. Driver’s License:
A valid Class 1 or A driver’s license is required, along with a Compressed air brake (Z) endorsement.
7. Trucking and Gear Types:
Familiarity with different trucking and gear types, such as Heavy transport, Flatbed, Refrigerated, Highway, and Straight truck (4,600kg+ or 10,000lbs+ with 3+ axles).
8. Safety Requirements:
Meeting safety and security standards is crucial, including a clean criminal record, driving record check, medical examination, and drug test.
9. Travel:
Being willing to travel throughout Canada and the US, including day, night, or overnight shifts, and being able to travel for extended periods.
10. Other:
Candidates must have legal permission to work in Canada and be comfortable working in a two-person team for long-haul trucking.
REQUIRED SKILLS
1. Driving Skills:
You should be able to drive trucks to transport goods and supplies.
2. Loading and Unloading:
Ability to load and unload freight, secure it with tarps, and ensure its safety.
3. Trip Planning:
You need to plan your travel routes and schedules.
4. Navigation Skills:
Using maps and planning tools to help guide your journey.
5. Communication:
Getting and passing on information to the central dispatcher.
6. Teamwork:
Ability to drive alone or as part of a two-person crew.
7. Vehicle Maintenance:
Checking the condition of the vehicle, including tires, lights, brakes, refrigeration, and other equipment.
TOP PROVINCIAL PROGRAMS IN CANADA FOR TRUCK DRIVERS
Here are the best programs for finding a truck driver job with visa sponsorship in different provinces of Canada:
1. British Columbia
British Columbia is a great place for truck drivers. The province has over 400 job opportunities for long-haul truckers, making it a top choice for those seeking entry-level and semi-skilled positions. Successful candidates can even make British Columbia their permanent home.
Learn more about immigration in British Columbia at [BC Immigration] (https://www.immigration.ca/englishcolumbia-migration).
2. Quebec
Quebec is a leading province with 837 job ads for truck drivers. The government’s job site describes the employment prospects for truck drivers as ‘excellent.’
Access the Quebec site at [Quebec Immigration](https://www.immigration.ca/en/quebecimmigrationprovincial.html).
3. Ontario
Ontario has added the NOC code for transport truck drivers to its Migrant Candidate Program Employer Job In-Demand Skills Stream. This means experienced truck drivers with a job offer in Ontario can follow a defined path to permanent residency in Canada.
Explore more about immigration in Ontario at [Ontario Immigration](https://www.immigration.ca/en/ontario-immigration.html).
4. Alberta
Alberta’s Foreign Worker Nominee Program is another popular choice for long-haul truckers. There are over 500 job opportunities available through both the Alberta Opportunity Stream and Alberta Express Entry for truck drivers.
5. Manitoba
Trucking companies in Manitoba need to follow the federal Labour Market Impact Assessment for Temporary Foreign Workers process. The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program allows companies to hire truck drivers under certain conditions, including recruitment efforts and compliance with provincial employment regulations.
Visit the Manitoba immigration site at [Manitoba Immigration](https://www.immigration.ca/en/manitoba-immigration.html).
6. Newfoundland and Labrador
This province anticipates a significant need for truck drivers, as highlighted in the Work Market Outlook 2025 report. Trucking companies must apply to be eligible employers under the NLPNP’s Skilled Worker and Express Entry streams.
7. Saskatchewan
For those already working in Canada on a work permit, Saskatchewan Immigration offers a separate Long-haul Truck Drivers Sub-Class. The occupation also qualifies for the province’s Express Entry and Occupations In-Demand categories.
8. Nova Scotia
Transport Truck Drivers are one of two targeted positions in the Nova Scotia Nominee Program’s Occupations In-Demand Stream. This provides a clear path to permanent residency for drivers.
Wages:
Truck drivers’ hourly pay rates are competitive, ranging around the national and provincial averages. Median wages may be slightly below the national average, but they can exceed it in specific conditions.
Conclusion:
If you’re considering a truck driver job with visa sponsorship in Canada, this article has highlighted opportunities in different provinces and the programs that offer them.