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NOC 73300TEER 3Transport
Truck Driver Immigration to Canada
Complete pathway guide for truck drivers moving to Canada. Explore Express Entry, provincial programs, requirements, and job prospects.
NOC Code
73300
TEER Category
TEER 3
Median Salary
$55,000
Very High Demand
Overview
Truck Driver Pathway to Canada
Truck drivers face one of the most severe labor shortages in Canada. The logistics sector desperately needs qualified drivers, particularly for long-haul routes.
As of 2026, Transport category Express Entry draws specifically target truck drivers, offering a direct pathway to permanent residence with lower CRS requirements.
Class 1 (or equivalent) commercial driver's license required. Most provinces require Canadian Class 1 license, though some offer reciprocal recognition for experienced drivers.
Expert Immigration Support
Get personalized guidance from RCIC-licensed consultants specializing in transport worker immigration.
Book ConsultationCalculate CRS ScoreLearn About Express EntryRCIC License: R515110
Immigration Pathways
Eligible Programs for Truck Drivers
Multiple pathways available depending on your qualifications and circumstances.
Express Entry - Transport Category
New transport category draws specifically for truck drivers with 1+ year recent experience.
Provincial Nominee Program
Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Atlantic provinces have dedicated trucking industry streams.
Atlantic Immigration Program
Atlantic region actively recruits truck drivers with job offers.
Requirements
What You Need to Qualify
Key requirements for truck driver immigration to Canada.
Education
High school diploma. Commercial driver training certificate preferred.
Experience
Minimum 1 year full-time experience as truck driver (Class 1/AZ equivalent) in last 3 years.
Language
CLB 5 minimum (IELTS 5.0). CLB 6-7 improves CRS and job prospects significantly.
Licensing
Valid commercial driver's license. Must obtain Canadian Class 1 license (training $3,000-8,000).
Express Entry
Express Entry for Truck Drivers
Transport category draws have significantly lower CRS cut-offs (350-400). Drivers under 35 with CLB 7 and 3 years experience score 380-420.
Category-Based Draws
Truck Drivers are eligible for category-based Express Entry draws, which typically have lower CRS cut-offs than general draws. This significantly improves your chances of receiving an ITA.
Typical CRS Range
350-420
Processing Time
6 months
Employment Outlook
Job Market & Settlement
What to expect when you arrive in Canada as a truck driver.
Time to Employment
1-3 months
Average time to secure first job in Canada
Top Cities for Truck Drivers:
TorontoCalgaryWinnipegEdmontonVancouver
Job Search Tips
Get Canadian Class 1 license quickly (4-8 weeks). Start with local delivery to build Canadian experience. Major carriers sponsor work permits. Job boards: Indeed, Trucking Jobs Canada, company websites.
Top Employer Types
Transforce
Challenger Motor Freight
Trimac Transportation
Day & Ross
Vitran Express
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about truck driver immigration to Canada
Can I convert my foreign truck driving license to Canadian Class 1?
Depends on province and country. US CDL holders may get partial credit. Most international drivers need Class 1 training and testing in Canada (4-8 weeks, $3,000-8,000). Some employers cover training costs.
Do I need Canadian driving experience to immigrate?
No, but you need 1 year truck driving experience from anywhere. Canadian experience helps job search but not required for immigration. Many drivers start with local routes to build Canadian experience.
Can my family come with me as a truck driver immigrant?
Yes, Express Entry and PNP programs allow family sponsorship. Spouse gets open work permit. Children can attend school. Transport category draws make it easier for truck drivers to bring families.
What is the salary range for truck drivers in Canada?
Local delivery: $45-55K. Regional routes: $55-65K. Long-haul (owner-operator): $65-90K. Specialized (tanker, oversized): $70-100K. Overtime and bonuses common. Alberta and Ontario typically pay highest.
Is long-haul or local driving better for newcomers?
Local driving offers better work-life balance and quicker settlement. Long-haul pays more but requires extended time away. Most newcomers start local, then choose based on family situation and income goals.
Ready to Immigrate as a Truck Driver?
Our RCIC-licensed consultants specialize in transport worker immigration. Book a consultation to discuss your pathway to Canadian permanent residence.