Find out how to land a truck driver job in Canada, the USA, or the UK with visa sponsorship. Learn about pay, visa types and top companies hiring.

Truck driving is one of the most essential professions in North America and Europe, especially in countries like Canada, the USA, and the UK. The shortage of qualified drivers has opened doors for international candidates looking to relocate and work. With visa sponsorship, truck driving offers a stable and well-paying opportunity for many, including those from countries like Nigeria.

Why Truck Driving is in High Demand

The logistics and supply chain industries are the backbones of major economies. Goods need to be transported daily from raw materials to finished products. With increasing demand for online shopping and intercity transport, countries like Canada, the U.S., and the UK are constantly seeking more drivers.

Aging domestic workforces and low interest from locals in long-haul driving roles have left companies no choice but to recruit from abroad.

How much does a truck driver earn in Canada per month?

Delivery and truck drivers in Canada with visa sponsorships earn solid incomes. Here’s a breakdown:

• Long-haul Truck Drivers: $55,000 – $80,000 per year
• Local Delivery Drivers: $40,000 – $60,000 per year
• Hourly Wage Range: $20 – $35/hour

Wages vary depending on the province, company, and your level of experience. Atlantic Canada tends to offer competitive salaries to attract foreign talent.

How to Apply for a Truck Driving Job in Canada from Nigeria

If you’re in Nigeria and aiming for a truck driving job in Canada, here are the essential steps:

1. Get a Valid International Driver’s License

You’ll need a Nigerian driver’s license with clean records. Convert it into an International Driving Permit (IDP) through the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC).

2. Gain Experience

Most Canadian employers require 2+ years of driving experience, especially for long-haul routes.

3. Research LMIA-Supported Jobs

You need a job offer backed by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which shows the employer couldn’t find a Canadian for the job.

4. Apply Through Approved Job Portals

Use Canadian government job sites and LMIA-approved portals such as:

• Job Bank Canada
• Workopolis
• Indeed Canada (filter by “visa sponsorship”)
• Trucking HR Canada

5. Submit a Well-Prepared CV

Create a Canadian-style resume with clear job history, licenses, and references. Add any logistics or safety training.

6. Communicate with Recruiters

Reach out to trucking companies and recruiters directly. Use platforms like LinkedIn or contact employers via their websites.

7. Complete the Immigration Paperwork

Once selected, the employer will apply for LMIA. Then you apply for a work permit under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).

Which visa is required for truck driver from Canada to USA?

• B1 Visa (Business Visitor Visa): This is issued to Canadian truckers delivering goods in the U.S. as part of international trade.
• H2B Visa (Temporary Non-Agricultural Worker Visa): Sometimes used by U.S. companies to hire foreign drivers if they meet the criteria.

Note: Canadian citizens have more relaxed rules, but drivers from other countries must obtain the correct U.S. visa for cross-border operations.

Qualifications Needed to Be a Truck Driver in Canada

1. Valid Driver’s License (Class 1 or Class AZ): This is required for operating heavy trucks.
2. Clean Driving Record: No serious violations or DUI history.
3. High School Education: Basic education is generally required.
4. Medical Examination: Vision, hearing, and overall fitness must meet provincial standards.
5. Language Proficiency: English or French communication is essential.
6. Experience: At least 1–2 years of verifiable experience is preferred.
7. Professional Driving Training: Many provinces require completion of a certified training program (MELT).

Companies Hiring Foreign Truck Drivers in Atlantic Canada

Atlantic Canada is more open to hiring internationally due to labour shortages. Here are some companies to consider:

• Midland Transport (New Brunswick)
• Day & Ross (New Brunswick)
• Cooke Aquaculture (Nova Scotia)
• TST-CF Express (Prince Edward Island)
• Munden Ventures Ltd (Nova Scotia)
• Seaboard Transport
• East Coast International Trucks

Most of these companies are approved for the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), which fast-tracks permanent residency.

Is it Easier to Get a Truck Driver Job in Canada or America?

Canada:

• More structured immigration programs like AIP, TFWP, and LMIA.
• Provinces actively support international recruitment.
• Employer paperwork and sponsorships are more transparent.

USA:

• Stricter immigration policies.
• H2B visa for truckers is limited and seasonal.
• Fewer companies willing to sponsor non-citizens due to regulatory hurdles.

Verdict: For truck drivers from Nigeria and other countries, Canada offers a more accessible and clear pathway to employment and permanent residence.

Truck Driver Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship

Following the UK’s driver shortage crisis in recent years, the government opened up visa options for foreign drivers. Here’s what to know:

Requirements:

• Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) License (Category C or CE)
• At least 1 year of driving experience
• Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC)
• English proficiency
• Clean background and driving record

Visa Type:

• Skilled Worker Visa: Eligible for truck drivers under the “Shortage Occupation List.”

Employers in the UK Hiring Drivers:

• DHL Supply Chain
• Tesco Logistics
• Wincanton
• Eddie Stobart
• Gist Limited

Job portals to use include Indeed UK, Reed, TotalJobs, and government listings.

Final Thoughts

Truck driving with visa sponsorship is more than a job—it’s a gateway to better opportunities abroad. Whether you’re aiming for Canada, the USA, or the UK, preparation is everything. Focus on licensing, experience, and reaching out to companies actively looking for foreign workers. Canada remains the most accessible for international drivers, but strong applications can also open doors in the UK and USA.

Start by getting qualified, building a clean record, and applying through the right channels. With persistence and proper steps, you can land a stable job with good pay, a clear immigration pathway, and a chance to build a better future.