JoshCanada’s economy runs on wheels. From food to construction materials, everything is transported across the country by trucks. With over 325,000 truck drivers employed, the industry is massive — yet in 2025, it faces a critical shortage of workers.
To fill the gap, Canada is actively recruiting foreign truck drivers through work permits and permanent residency programs. For those without university degrees but with driving experience, this is one of the most realistic immigration pathways.
Salaries for truck drivers in Canada typically range from CAD $48,000 to $70,000 per year, with long-haul and specialized drivers earning even more. Some employers also offer visa sponsorship, housing support, and bonuses to attract workers.
This guide explains the salaries, job opportunities, immigration pathways, and step-by-step process to move to Canada as a truck driver in 2025.
Truck Driver Salaries in Canada
Your income depends on the type of trucking, distance covered, and province.
Average Salaries by Category
| Role | Average Annual Salary (CAD) | Hourly Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Delivery Driver | $42,000 – $55,000 | $20 – $26 | Works within one city/region |
| Short-Haul Driver | $48,000 – $65,000 | $23 – $31 | Regional routes, home most nights |
| Long-Haul Truck Driver | $55,000 – $75,000 | $26 – $36 | Cross-province & cross-border trips |
| Specialized Truck Driver (Tanker/Heavy Haul) | $65,000 – $85,000 | $30 – $40 | Requires extra certification |
| Owner-Operator | $80,000 – $120,000+ | Varies | Self-employed, higher risk & reward |
Regional Salary Comparison
| Province | Average Salary Range (CAD) | Cost of Living (1-bed apt/month) |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | $50,000 – $70,000 | $1,800 – $2,500 |
| British Columbia | $52,000 – $72,000 | $1,900 – $2,700 |
| Alberta | $55,000 – $75,000 | $1,400 – $1,900 |
| Saskatchewan | $50,000 – $68,000 | $1,000 – $1,300 |
| Manitoba | $48,000 – $65,000 | $1,100 – $1,400 |
| Atlantic Provinces | $45,000 – $62,000 | $900 – $1,200 |
Alberta and Saskatchewan offer the best balance: higher wages with lower cost of living compared to Toronto or Vancouver.
Truck Driver Jobs in Demand
In 2025, truck driver shortages are so severe that many employers are ready to hire foreign workers with visa sponsorship. High-demand roles include:
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Long-Haul Drivers (cross-country, US border routes)
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Flatbed & Heavy Haul Drivers
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Tanker Truck Drivers (fuel, chemicals, liquids)
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Refrigerated Goods Drivers (food & medical supplies)
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Livestock Transport Drivers
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Local/Regional Delivery Drivers (last-mile logistics)
Immigration Pathways for Truck Drivers
1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
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Many trucking companies hire foreign drivers through the TFWP.
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Employers must obtain an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment).
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Work permits are usually valid for 2 years and renewable.
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Several provinces have specific immigration streams for truck drivers:
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Saskatchewan Long-Haul Truck Driver Project – designed for foreign drivers with work experience in Saskatchewan.
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Manitoba Employer Direct Stream – trucking companies can nominate drivers for PR.
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British Columbia PNP Entry-Level & Semi-Skilled Category – includes long-haul drivers.
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Alberta Opportunity Stream – recognizes truck drivers as eligible occupations.
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Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) – allows trucking employers in Atlantic provinces to hire foreign workers leading to PR.
3. Express Entry (Limited Cases)
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Some truck driver roles fall under TEER 3 (NOC 73300).
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They may be eligible through Express Entry if supported by provincial nominations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Immigrating as a Truck Driver
Step 1: Check Eligibility
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Age: 21–55 (most employers prefer this range).
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Driving License: Class 1/A (or equivalent) from your country.
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Experience: At least 1–2 years of commercial truck driving.
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Language: CLB 4 minimum (basic English/French).
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Clean criminal record and medical exam required.
Step 2: Get Canadian License
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Once in Canada, you’ll need to obtain a Class 1/A provincial license.
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Some provinces allow testing directly, while others may require training.
Step 3: Find an LMIA-Approved Employer
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Search on Job Bank Canada (jobbank.gc.ca) using “LMIA approved.”
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Apply directly to trucking companies in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.
Step 4: Employer Applies for LMIA
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Employer proves they need foreign workers.
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Once approved, you’ll get an LMIA confirmation letter.
Step 5: Apply for Work Permit
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Submit application online via IRCC.
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Required documents:
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Passport
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Job offer letter & LMIA
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Driving license & experience records
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IELTS/CELPIP language results
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Police clearance & medical exam
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Step 6: Travel to Canada & Start Work
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Present your work permit approval at the airport.
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Border officers issue your work permit.
Step 7: Transition to Permanent Residency
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After 1 year of Canadian experience, apply through:
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Saskatchewan Truck Driver Project (PNP)
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Manitoba PNP
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Atlantic Immigration Program
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Express Entry (if nominated)
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Benefits of Truck Driver Immigration
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Stable jobs – trucking shortage expected until at least 2030.
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Good salaries – $48,000–$70,000 annually, higher with overtime.
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Accessible pathway – no university degree required.
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Visa sponsorship available – many employers assist with permits.
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Permanent residency options – multiple PNPs support drivers.
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Family benefits – spouses can get open work permits; kids access schools.
Challenges for Immigrant Truck Drivers
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Long hours away from home – long-haul trucking means days/weeks on the road.
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Harsh weather – winter driving in Canada can be dangerous.
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Certification/licensing costs – getting a Canadian Class 1/A license costs $5,000–$10,000 in some provinces.
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Employer dependence – tied to employer until PR is secured.
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Physical & mental stress – fatigue, irregular schedules.
Conclusion
In 2025, Canada’s truck driver shortage creates a clear path for foreign workers. With salaries of $48,000–$70,000, visa sponsorship opportunities, and multiple immigration pathways, truck driving is one of the most practical routes for non-degree holders to achieve permanent residency in Canada.
If you have truck driving experience, now is the time to act. With the right license, an LMIA-approved employer, and determination, Canada can offer you not just a job, but a long-term future for you and your family.
Josh
