How to Relocate to Canada as a Truck Driver

Canada relies heavily on the trucking industry to keep its economy moving. The vast expanse of the country, with its cities, towns, and remote regions, necessitates the constant movement of goods. This includes delivering consumer products, raw materials, or agricultural goods, truck drivers are the backbone of Canada’s supply chain. The demand for qualified and experienced truck drivers remains consistently high, making it an attractive career choice for those looking to move to Canada.

This guide will delve into each of these steps in detail, providing valuable information and insights to help aspiring truck drivers successfully relocate to Canada and embark on a rewarding career in one of the nation’s most critical industries.

Truck Driving Careers In-Demand

In Canada, the road to economic success is paved with opportunities for skilled truck drivers. The nation’s vast expanse, diverse industries, and thriving economy rely heavily on the trucking and logistics sector to keep goods moving efficiently from coast to coast. According to recent statistics and upcoming changes in immigration policies, the demand for truck drivers in Canada has never been higher, making it an attractive career choice for those considering relocation.

Statistics Canada reveals a compelling picture of the demand for truck drivers in the country. As of now, the vacancy rate in the truck transportation sector stands at approximately 8%. This translates to a staggering 55,600 job vacancies for truck drivers scattered across Canada. This significant number underscores the critical need for skilled professionals in this field to keep the nation’s supply chain moving smoothly.

In addition to the existing vacancies, Canada faces another challenge in the form of an impending labor shortage. The labor supply forecast indicates that nearly 36,000 truck drivers are expected to retire between 2019 and 2023. Furthermore, an additional 136,600 drivers are projected to leave their jobs for non-retirement reasons during this period. These numbers paint a clear picture of the imminent workforce gap in the trucking and logistics sector. Recognizing the urgency of addressing the truck driver shortage, the Canadian government is taking proactive steps to welcome skilled drivers from around the world.

How to Relocate to Canada as a Truck Driver

These few pathways you can relocate to Canada from any part of the world as a truck driver:

Canada’s Express Entry

Canada, known for its welcoming stance towards immigrants, offers a streamlined and efficient way for skilled workers to make their dream of living and working in the Great White North a reality. At the heart of this process lies the Express Entry system, an online platform meticulously designed by the Canadian government to manage applications from skilled workers aspiring to become Canadian permanent residents. Express Entry operates under the umbrella of three main federal economic immigration programs:

• Federal Skilled Program: This program is tailored for individuals with specific skills and experience that are in demand in Canada. It assesses candidates based on factors like education, work experience, language proficiency, and age.
• Federal Skilled Trades Program: Designed for skilled tradespersons, this program recognizes the importance of skilled workers in maintaining Canada’s economic momentum. Eligibility criteria include qualifications in specific trades and a job offer or certification.
• Canadian Experience Class: Ideal for individuals who have already gained Canadian work experience, this program provides a pathway to permanent residence for those who have successfully integrated into the Canadian workforce.

Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)

Once eligible candidates submit their applications, they are entered into the Express Entry pool. Here, they receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which is a numerical representation of their qualifications and attributes. The CRS score is calculated based on factors such as education, language proficiency, skills, work experience, and more. It’s important to note that the role of education in determining a person’s occupational skill set has been deemphasized, making it more accessible for individuals with diverse backgrounds.

To help candidates gauge their eligibility and potential for success, a free CRS calculator is available. The higher the CRS score, the better the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residence.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and Express Entry

Truck drivers seeking to immigrate to Canada through Express Entry have two options to explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs):

Option 1: Direct Nomination

After conducting research on job vacancies and provincial needs, candidates can directly reach out to the province or territory they wish to receive a nomination from through their respective Express Entry stream. If the candidate’s skill set aligns with the province’s specific requirements, they can receive a nomination. Subsequently, the nominee creates an Express Entry profile to reflect this nomination, which is then electronically processed.

Option 2: Notification of Interest

Candidates can also opt to create an Express Entry profile, specifying the province or territory from which they desire a nomination. When a province expresses interest in the candidate’s profile, a notification of interest is sent. At this point, the candidate can directly contact the province and initiate the application process for the respective PNP stream.

Non-Express Entry – Provincial Nomination Provincial (PNP)

Becoming a truck driver in Canada offers not only the promise of a rewarding career but also the chance to call one of the world’s most welcoming countries home. While Express Entry is a popular immigration pathway, there’s another route that can lead you to Canadian permanent residency—Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs). PNPs are province-specific immigration programs that cater to the unique needs and demands of each Canadian province. For those interested in pursuing a truck driving career in Canada, PNPs present a promising opportunity worth exploring.

The PNP route for truck drivers is highly province-specific, and your chances of nomination under a PNP depend on the specific needs of the province. Provinces across Canada often face unique challenges and opportunities in the trucking industry due to varying economic activities, industries, and geographic characteristics.

To maximize your chances of success, it’s advisable to monitor job postings and stay up-to-date with the needs of the provinces you are interested in. Some provinces may have a higher demand for truck drivers than others due to their economic activities or geographical location.

Requirements

The path to becoming a truck driver in Canada starts with meeting the requirements set forth by the province where you plan to work. While these requirements can vary from province to province, some common demands include:

• Completion of Secondary School: Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required as a minimum educational qualification.
• Demonstration of Driving Skills: Truck driving is a skill-intensive profession, and candidates are expected to demonstrate their proficiency in handling commercial vehicles.
• Appropriate Licensing: Obtaining the necessary licenses is a crucial step. This includes a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or its equivalent, as well as any additional endorsements required for specialized driving tasks.

Provincial-Specific Programs for Truck Drivers

Several provinces have recognized the significance of truck drivers in their local economies and have designed PNP programs to encourage skilled truckers to settle and work in their regions. One noteworthy example is the Saskatchewan Long-Haul Truck Driver Project.

This program aims to attract candidates who have a valid offer of employment from a Saskatchewan trucking company and have already been employed with the same Saskatchewan employer for at least 6 months prior to application, holding a valid work permit. Successful nomination under this program leads to Canadian permanent residency, opening the doors to a bright future in Canada.

Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) stands out as a bridge that connects Canadian employers with skilled foreign workers, addressing provincial and territorial labor needs while providing temporary status and, potentially, a path to Canadian Permanent Residency.

The TFWP plays a crucial role in Canada’s labor market by allowing Canadian employers to hire foreign nationals when there’s a shortage of available Canadian workers to meet their needs. This program not only addresses immediate labor gaps but also presents an opportunity for foreign workers to gain valuable Canadian work experience and potentially transition to permanent residency status.

The Role of Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

In many cases, to hire a foreign national under the TFWP, Canadian employers are required to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). An LMIA is a vital document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). This assessment evaluates the potential impact of hiring a foreign national on the Canadian labor market. It helps ensure that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively affect the employment opportunities of Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

Employers must demonstrate that they have made reasonable efforts to hire Canadian citizens or permanent residents before turning to the TFWP. They must also provide details about the job offer, including the wages and working conditions, to determine whether the employment offer is competitive and fair.

Spouse Work Permits

The TFWP not only benefits the primary foreign worker but also extends its advantages to their spouses. In cases involving skilled occupations, spouses of foreign workers are eligible to apply for open work permits. This allows them to seek employment in Canada without the need for a specific job offer, significantly easing the transition to a new life in Canada for the entire family.

While the TFWP provides temporary status, it can be a stepping stone to Canadian Permanent Residency for eligible individuals. Gaining Canadian work experience through this program can enhance an applicant’s eligibility for various immigration pathways, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), both of which offer routes to permanent residency.

The Application Process

Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility for the truck driver program in Canada. Your journey to becoming a part of Canada’s thriving trucking industry is one step closer. To help you understand and navigate the application process effectively, here’s a step-by-step guide that will ensure you’re on the right track:

Step 1: Find Your NOC (National Occupational Classification)

To begin your application, you’ll need to identify your occupation under the NOC system. Truck drivers fall under NOC code 7511, which is specifically designated for Transport Truck Drivers. This code is essential as it helps categorize your occupation and facilitates the application process.

Step 2: Check Your Eligibility

Before you proceed, it’s crucial to double-check your eligibility for the program and position you’re applying for. Review the specific requirements for truck drivers in Canada, including educational qualifications, driving skills, and any other prerequisites relevant to your chosen province or territory.

Step 3: Find a Job and Secure a Job Offer

Securing a job offer from a Canadian trucking company is a critical step in your journey. Research the Canadian job market for truck drivers and identify potential employers. Network with industry professionals, check online job boards and reach out to trucking companies that align with your career goals. Once you have a job offer, make sure it includes all the necessary details and terms of your employment.

Step 4: Know Which Type of Work Permit is Required

There are various types of work permits available in Canada, depending on your situation and job offer. Truck drivers typically require a Temporary Work Permit to start working in Canada. Understanding the specific type of work permit you need, its duration, and any associated conditions is essential. Some work permits may require a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) as mentioned earlier.

Step 5: Gather All Supporting Documents and Fill in All Required Fields

Completing your application will involve gathering essential supporting documents and providing accurate information. Some of the documents you may need include:

• A valid passport
• Your job offer letter
• Proof of qualifications and driving experience
• Educational certificates
• Language proficiency test results (if applicable)
• Any other documents specific to your situation or the requirements of your chosen province or territory

Conclusion

If you’re considering the Express Entry system, Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs), or the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), Canada offers a range of immigration pathways designed for your unique circumstances. These pathways not only provide you with the chance to become a valued member of the Canadian workforce but also lay the foundation for potential permanent residency in this diverse and welcoming country.