Truck Driver Work VISA Immigration in US, UK, Canada, Australia

Have you ever wished you could drive on endless roads, see beautiful scenery, watch the world go by from the comfort of your taxi, or be an important part of global supply chains? As a truck driver, you’ll enjoy freedom, adventure, and the satisfaction of delivering important things.

But how do you get from where you are now to becoming a truck driver? What skills do you need, where are the best-paying jobs, and how strong is the demand? Truck drivers-to-be, don’t look any further! This book tells you everything you need to know to become a truck driver in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and Europe. We’ll talk about things like license requirements, training programs, pay comparisons and even those great trucking jobs that you might not know about in other countries.

Put on your seat belts and get ready to change gears. We’re about to start an exciting trip into the fast-paced world of truck driving, where each mile on the open road is a new adventure.

Types of Trucks and Drivers that Qualify for immigration programs

Truck driver immigration programs usually look for people who can meet the need for skilled and experienced drivers of different kinds of business vehicles. Here is a list of the most popular types of trucks and drivers who qualify:

Types of Trucks Used Abroad for which Skill Shortages are observed in 2024:

• Tractor-Trailers (Class A): People are very interested in these trucks because they are often used for long-distance hauling. Tractor-trailer drivers with experience are often given more jobs.
• Straight Trucks (Class B): These smaller trucks are used to carry packages locally and move special items. The need for these drivers may not be as high as the need for Class A drivers..
• Tanker Trucks: People who can drive tankers are in high demand, especially those who can move dangerous goods or liquids.
• Flatbed Trucks: Some drivers are eligible for certain programs because they have the skills and knowledge to haul cargo that is too big or doesn’t fit properly.

Driver Types Needed Through Fast-track Skill Shortage Immigration Programs 

• Long-Haul Truck Drivers: Experienced in cross-country or cross-border transportation.
• Local Delivery Drivers: Familiar with local routes and delivery procedures.
• Specialized Drivers: Possessing permits for specific cargo types like HazMat, tankers, or oversized loads.

Immigration Programs Target Truckers As per above-mentioned Types:

In some countries, the trucking business is having trouble finding new drivers because the current drivers are getting older and the jobs are hard to get. To deal with this, a lot of companies are giving sign-on bonuses, better benefits, and flexible schedules. Here are some of these programs to help you get started:

• Canada: Long-haul truck drivers with Class A licenses are often targeted by the Express Entry program and other Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
• United States: The H-2B visa program is mostly used to sponsor foreign truck drivers, mostly long-haul drivers for construction and agriculture businesses from outside the United States.
• United Kingdom: Truck drivers with experience in specific areas like transporting cold goods or dangerous materials may be able to get a Skilled Worker visa.
• Australia: The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) could be a way for experienced truck drivers to get to Australia, especially those who have skills that are in high demand.

Eligibility Criteria to Qualify for Truck Driver Immigration Programs

Different countries and programs have different requirements for people who want to immigrate as truck drivers. However, here are some general requirements:

General Requirements:

Age:

• Typically between 21 and 55 years old, depending on the country and specific role.

Education:

• A high school diploma or equivalent is generally required.

Language Proficiency:

• English or French: Minimum proficiency required, especially in countries like Canada.
• Language Tests: Some countries may require specific language tests, such as IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program).

Driving Experience:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): A valid CDL from your home country is needed.
• Experience: At least two years of driving experience with trucks or relevant vehicles.
• Additional Licensing: In some places, you may need more training or certification to work there.

Clean Driving Record:

• No major traffic violations or accidents in recent years.

Medical Examination:

• To make sure they are healthy enough to drive and that they can handle the demands of the job, they must pass a medical test.

Background Check:

• To be safe and reliable, you need to have no crime record.

Read Also: Railway Train Driver Work VISA in UK, US, Australia, Canada, and Europe

Additional Requirements for Specific Immigration Programs:

Canada:

• • The Express Entry system handles the entry of skilled workers, such as truck drivers.
  • Based on your age, schooling, language skills, and work experience, you must get at least the minimum number of points.
  • There are Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) in some areas that are just for truck drivers.

United States:

• • The H-2B visa program is usually used by employers to support foreign truck drivers.
  • You need to have a job offer from a company in the United States and meet the other standards of the H-2B program.

United Kingdom:

• • The UK has a points-based immigration system.
  • You need to have a job offer from a company in the UK and earn at least a certain number of points based on your skills, qualifications, and pay.

Australia:

• • A popular way for skilled workers, like truck drivers, to come to the United States is through the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189).
  • You need to have enough points and your job must be on the list of skilled occupations.

Truckers Salary Comparison Between US, UK, Canada, Australia

There is a wide range of pay for truck drivers based on experience, country, type of cargo, and miles driven. Here is a range of possible pay for truck drivers:

• United States: Average: $48,310 – $73,000 per year
• Canada: Average: C$45,000 – C$80,000 per year
• United Kingdom: Average: £25,000 – £45,000 per year
• Australia: Average: A$60,000 – A$90,000 per year

Where to Find Truck Driver Jobs Abroad?

• United States: Indeed, ZipRecruiter, company websites (Schneider National, Swift Transportation, Werner Enterprises)
• Canada: Indeed, Job Bank, company websites (Bison Transport, Challenger Motor Freight)
• United Kingdom: Indeed, Totaljobs, Reed, company websites (Eddie Stobart, Wincanton)
• Australia: Seek, Indeed, company websites (Linfox, Toll Group).

Conclusion

Becoming a truck driver gives you freedom and excitement on the open road, as well as good pay and many ways to move to the United States. The job market and standards are different in each country, but the basic skills and training are the same. Use the highlighted tools and programs to help you find a rewarding job as a truck driver.

Frequently Asked Questions