AdminCanada’s transportation industry is one of the strongest in the world. From moving goods across provinces to delivering essential supplies to remote regions, truck drivers play a vital role in keeping the country running. As the demand for logistics and freight services continues to rise, Canada faces a nationwide shortage of qualified truck drivers.
To fill this gap, the Canadian government and private employers are welcoming foreign drivers through official work permit programs. If you have experience behind the wheel and want to start a stable, well-paid career abroad, Canada offers thousands of opportunities with visa and work permit sponsorship.
This guide explains everything you need to know about truck driver jobs in Canada, from salary ranges and visa requirements to how to apply for sponsorship jobs in 2025.
Why Canada Needs Foreign Truck Drivers
Canada’s economy depends heavily on the movement of goods across its vast geography. Nearly 90% of all goods in Canada are moved by trucks. But the country’s aging workforce, high retirement rate, and shortage of local drivers have created a serious labour gap.
According to national industry reports, Canada will need over 55,000 new truck drivers by 2025 to meet growing transportation demands. As a result, foreign workers are being recruited to fill vacancies in both long-haul and regional driving positions.
For international applicants, this shortage means strong job security, employer-sponsored work permits, and clear pathways to permanent residency.
Benefits of Working as a Truck Driver in Canada
Working as a truck driver in Canada is one of the most rewarding blue-collar jobs available to foreign workers. Beyond the competitive salary, you gain legal employment, travel experiences, and long-term settlement opportunities.
Key Benefits Include:
Work permit sponsorship from approved employers, competitive wages with overtime pay, free or subsidized accommodation in some contracts, health insurance and retirement benefits, paid vacation and family visa options, eligibility for permanent residency after continuous employment, modern trucks and safe working conditions.
With its high living standards and fair labour laws, Canada provides truck drivers with dignity, stability, and career growth.
Average Salary for Truck Drivers in Canada 2025
Salaries vary by province, driving distance, and experience, but Canadian truck drivers earn some of the best wages among transport workers globally.
Entry-Level Truck Drivers earn CAD $48,000 – $60,000 per year. Experienced Long-Haul Drivers earn CAD $65,000 – $85,000 per year. Specialized or Oversized Freight Drivers earn CAD $90,000 – $120,000 per year.
Hourly rates range from CAD $25 to $38 per hour, with overtime and night-shift bonuses common. Many companies also offer annual performance bonuses and relocation support for foreign employees.
Provinces with the Highest Demand for Truck Drivers
Truck driver shortages exist across Canada, but certain provinces offer more opportunities, higher wages, and easier immigration pathways.
Ontario
Ontario is the logistics hub of Canada, home to major transport routes and warehouses. It has thousands of vacancies for both domestic and international drivers. Average Salary: CAD $60,000 – $85,000.
British Columbia
Known for its busy ports and cross-border routes to the United States, British Columbia has a strong demand for long-haul truckers and container drivers. Average Salary: CAD $65,000 – $90,000.
Alberta
Alberta’s oil and manufacturing industries rely heavily on trucking for cargo transport. Many employers provide visa sponsorship to foreign truckers here. Average Salary: CAD $70,000 – $100,000.
Saskatchewan and Manitoba
Central provinces like Saskatchewan and Manitoba need truckers for grain, construction, and freight transport. They also offer easier access to provincial immigration programs. Average Salary: CAD $55,000 – $80,000.
Quebec
With a mix of local and long-haul operations, Quebec offers diverse roles for foreign truckers, including delivery and warehouse logistics. Average Salary: CAD $50,000 – $75,000.
Types of Truck Driving Jobs Available
Canada’s trucking industry is vast, offering different types of jobs to match your experience and license class.
Long-Haul Truck Driver
Drive across provinces or cross-border routes into the USA. Trips can last several days or weeks. Salary: CAD $65,000 – $90,000.
Short-Haul or Regional Driver
Operate within one province or region. Drivers usually return home daily or weekly. Salary: CAD $55,000 – $75,000.
Delivery and Freight Driver
Transport goods between warehouses, distribution centers, and retail stores. Salary: CAD $45,000 – $65,000.
Heavy Equipment and Oilfield Hauler
Transport machinery, oilfield equipment, or oversized loads for industrial clients. Salary: CAD $75,000 – $110,000.
Ice Road or Remote Route Driver
Drive in Canada’s northern regions under extreme conditions during winter. These jobs offer premium pay due to difficulty. Salary: CAD $90,000 – $120,000.
Eligibility Requirements for Foreign Truck Drivers
To work legally in Canada as a truck driver, you must meet certain educational, professional, and licensing requirements.
Basic eligibility includes a minimum high school education, a valid truck driving license from your home country, at least two years of experience driving commercial vehicles, a clean driving record, good physical health, and knowledge of basic vehicle maintenance and safety procedures.
Foreign drivers must also qualify for a Canadian work permit under specific immigration programs.
Work Permit and Immigration Options for Truck Drivers
Canada offers several visa and work permit pathways for foreign truck drivers. The most common are the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP).
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
This is the primary route for foreign truck drivers. Canadian employers who cannot find local workers can sponsor foreign applicants under this program. Once approved, you receive an official job offer and a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) confirming the need for your employment. Duration: Up to 2 years, renewable. Path to PR: After gaining Canadian work experience, you may apply for permanent residency through the PNP or Express Entry.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
Each province manages its own immigration system. Truck drivers can apply for nomination through programs such as Saskatchewan Long-Haul Truck Driver Stream, Manitoba Skilled Worker Program, British Columbia Skills Immigration, and Alberta Opportunity Stream. A provincial nomination provides additional points toward permanent residency and faster processing.
Atlantic Immigration Program
Open to foreign workers moving to Atlantic provinces such as Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland. Employers in these regions hire truck drivers under official sponsorship.
Express Entry After Experience
After working in Canada for at least one year, truck drivers may qualify under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and become permanent residents.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Truck Driver Jobs in Canada
Step 1: Prepare your documents such as your passport, driver’s license, educational certificates, and employment history. Include reference letters and proof of experience.
Step 2: Create a Canadian-style resume highlighting your driving experience, truck types, and safety certifications.
Step 3: Search for employers offering sponsorship or LMIA support. Focus on verified logistics firms and trucking companies.
Step 4: Attend interviews, often conducted online. Be ready for questions about routes, vehicle maintenance, and safety.
Step 5: Receive your job offer and LMIA approval.
Step 6: Apply for your work permit online with your LMIA number, job offer, and required documents.
Step 7: Travel to Canada, complete your orientation, and start work.
Documents Required for Work Permit Application
Valid passport, employment contract or job offer, LMIA approval, driver’s license, reference letters, police clearance, medical examination report, and proof of funds. Processing time is usually between 8 and 12 weeks.
Major Trucking Companies Hiring Foreign Drivers
Several Canadian logistics companies hire international drivers under the LMIA or provincial programs. These employers often provide relocation help and settlement support.
Top employers include Bison Transport, Challenger Motor Freight, TransX Group, Day & Ross, Canada Cartage, Westcan Bulk Transport, Mullen Group, Trimac Transportation, H&R Transport, and Kriska Transportation. Each company hires drivers for regional, long-haul, and specialized freight positions.
Life of a Truck Driver in Canada
Driving across Canada means experiencing some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. From the Rocky Mountains to the Great Lakes, every route is unique.
Most drivers work 8 to 12-hour shifts with mandatory rest breaks. Trucks are modern and equipped with advanced navigation systems. Long-haul drivers often sleep in sleeper cabins or company-provided lodging. Winter driving can be tough, but safety training and equipment are always provided.
Truck drivers in Canada enjoy high respect, independence, and financial security.
Tips for a Successful Application
Keep your driving record clean. Take additional safety or logistics certifications. Avoid paying anyone who promises job offers. Highlight your long-distance or winter driving experience. Apply early and to multiple provinces for better chances. Employers value reliability and commitment above all else.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
After working in Canada for a few years, foreign truck drivers can apply for permanent residency under Provincial Nominee Programs, the Canadian Experience Class, or the Atlantic Immigration Program. Once you become a permanent resident, you can live anywhere in Canada, change jobs freely, and sponsor your family members to join you.
Future Outlook for 2025 and Beyond
The demand for truck drivers in Canada will remain strong for at least the next decade. With e-commerce, food distribution, and manufacturing expanding, companies are investing in fleet growth and international recruitment.
Canada’s transport industry is also embracing electric trucks and digital logistics, creating new roles for tech-savvy drivers. For foreign applicants, this means long-term job security and new opportunities in a growing economy.
Conclusion
Canada truck driver jobs with work permits in 2025 offer a real chance for skilled drivers to build a stable, rewarding future abroad. With strong demand across provinces, thousands of employers are ready to sponsor qualified drivers who meet the requirements.
Prepare your documents, apply through verified employers, and follow the official process carefully. Canada offers more than a job — it offers safety, dignity, and a new beginning for those ready to take the wheel.
Admin