Canada faces a growing demand for skilled truck drivers, leading many companies to sponsor foreign workers through programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). If you are an experienced truck driver looking to work in Canada, several employers offer visa sponsorship to help fill labor shortages. Below is a detailed list of companies that sponsor foreign truck drivers, along with key requirements and how to apply.
1 Major Trucking Companies Offering Sponsorship
Several large Canadian trucking firms actively recruit and sponsor international drivers. These companies often partner with immigration programs to bring in qualified workers.
A. Bison Transport
-
Location: Nationwide (headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba)
-
Positions: Long-haul, regional, and team drivers
-
Sponsorship: Partners with TFWP and PNPs
-
Requirements: Valid Class 1 license (or equivalent), clean driving record, minimum 2 years of experience
-
How to Apply: Submit an application via their careers page and indicate your need for sponsorship
B. Trimac Transportation
-
Location: Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario
-
Positions: Tanker drivers, bulk transport
-
Sponsorship: Supports LMIA-based work permits
-
Requirements: Experience in tanker hauling, safety certifications (e.g., TDG)
-
How to Apply: Check job postings on their website or contact recruitment directly
C. TransX Group of Companies
-
Location: Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec
-
Positions: Cross-border and domestic drivers
-
Sponsorship: Works with Manitoba’s PNP for skilled drivers
-
Requirements: U.S. border clearance (for cross-border roles), clean abstract
-
How to Apply: Email resumes to their hiring department with “Visa Sponsorship Inquiry” in the subject
D. Kriska Transportation Group
-
Location: Ontario, Quebec
-
Positions: OTR (over-the-road) and dedicated fleet drivers
-
Sponsorship: Accepts international drivers under TFWP
-
Requirements: Minimum 1 year of tractor-trailer experience
-
How to Apply: Apply online and mention visa needs in the application
2 Regional Companies That Sponsor Truck Drivers
Smaller regional carriers also hire foreign drivers, particularly in provinces with labor shortages.
A. Mullen Trucking (Alberta)
-
Specialization: Oilfield and heavy haul
-
Sponsorship: Frequently hires through TFWP
-
Requirements: Experience with oversized loads preferred
B. Day & Ross (Atlantic Canada & Ontario)
-
Positions: Dedicated, LTL (less-than-truckload), and team driving
-
Sponsorship: Participates in Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP)
-
Requirements: Clean CVOR (Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration)
C. Armour Transportation Systems (Maritimes)
-
Positions: Local and regional drivers
-
Sponsorship: Supports LMIA applications for skilled drivers
-
Requirements: Class 1 or 3 license, depending on the role
3 How to Secure a Sponsored Truck Driving Job in Canada
Step 1: Meet Basic Eligibility
-
Have a valid truck driver’s license (Class 1/A equivalent).
-
Minimum 1-2 years of professional experience.
-
Clean driving record (no major violations).
-
Pass a medical exam (required for Canadian licensing).
Step 2: Research Companies Hiring Foreign Drivers
-
Check job boards (Indeed, Workopolis, Trucking HR Canada).
-
Look for phrases like “LMIA support” or “visa sponsorship available.”
Step 3: Apply Directly to Employers
-
Tailor your resume to Canadian standards.
-
Highlight experience with specific equipment (e.g., flatbeds, reefers).
-
Clearly state your need for sponsorship.
Step 4: Obtain a Work Permit
-
If the employer gets an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment), you can apply for a work permit.
-
Some provinces (e.g., Saskatchewan, Alberta) nominate drivers for PR through PNPs.
4 Alternative Pathways for Truck Drivers
If you don’t secure immediate sponsorship, consider:
-
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Some provinces prioritize truck drivers for permanent residency.
-
Express Entry: If you have additional qualifications (e.g., trade certification), you may qualify.
-
Student to Work Visa: Enroll in a Canadian trucking school, then transition to a work permit.
Conclusion
Many Canadian trucking companies offer visa sponsorship to foreign drivers due to ongoing labor shortages. Major carriers like Bison Transport, Trimac, and Kriska frequently hire internationally, while regional employers in high-demand areas (e.g., Alberta’s oil sector) also sponsor skilled drivers. To improve your chances, ensure you meet licensing and experience requirements, apply directly to employers, and explore immigration programs like PNPs. With persistence and the right qualifications, securing a sponsored truck driving job in Canada is achievable.
