The global shortage of skilled workers has created new opportunities for truck drivers and mechanics to move abroad for better-paying jobs, with visa sponsorship included. In 2025, both Canada and Australia continue to face a high demand for these essential workers, and their governments have actively encouraged skilled migration to fill gaps in transportation and logistics.
If you’re a qualified truck driver or mechanic looking to work overseas, now is the time to take advantage of these programs and land a job with full immigration support.
In this guide, you’ll learn which employers are hiring, what visa pathways are available, and how to apply.
Need help crafting a winning CV, cover letter, or email template? Book a one-on-one consultation for guidance tailored to your goals: https://selar.com/Book.A.Session
Why Truck Drivers and Mechanics Are in High Demand
Countries like Canada and Australia depend heavily on the road transport industry to keep supply chains running across vast regions. The trucking and logistics sectors in both countries are expanding rapidly, but the workforce is aging and domestic hiring isn’t enough to meet the growing demand.
Mechanics are equally essential in maintaining vehicle safety and reliability, especially with the increasing use of heavy-duty, electric, and automated vehicles. Both professions are now on the priority occupations list in Canada and Australia for immigration.
Truck Driver and Mechanic Shortages by Country
Canada (2025)
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Estimated shortage of over 20,000 truck drivers
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Mechanics needed in both urban and remote regions, especially in heavy vehicle repair
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High demand in provinces like British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Saskatchewan
Average Salary (2025):
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Truck Drivers: CAD $55,000–$85,000 annually
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Mechanics: CAD $50,000–$78,000 annually
Australia (2025)
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Shortage of long-haul drivers in mining, agriculture, and freight transport
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Demand for diesel mechanics and heavy vehicle technicians in rural and metro areas
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State-sponsored visas available in Queensland, Western Australia, and New South Wales
Average Salary (2025):
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Truck Drivers: AUD $65,000–$95,000 annually
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Mechanics: AUD $60,000–$90,000 annually
Need help crafting a winning CV, cover letter, or email template? Book a one-on-one consultation for guidance tailored to your goals: https://selar.com/Book.A.Session
Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship (2025)
Here are some employers and sectors actively hiring foreign truck drivers and mechanics with visa sponsorship:
Canada
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Bison Transport – One of Canada’s largest trucking companies, with a history of hiring internationally. Offers LMIA-based work permits for foreign drivers.
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Challenger Motor Freight – Hires Class 1/A truck drivers from outside Canada and provides immigration support.
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Trimac Transportation – Hires experienced bulk and tank drivers; has relocation and visa support packages.
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Kal Tire – Employs heavy-duty mechanics and technicians with visa sponsorship, especially in mining and commercial sectors.
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Skilled Trades Recruitment Agencies – Such as WorkVantage and Global Hire, which connect foreign mechanics with employers.
Australia
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Toll Group – One of Australia’s biggest logistics firms, regularly hiring truck drivers and offering visa sponsorship for eligible applicants.
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Linfox – Offers long-haul and mining sector driving jobs, with relocation packages for foreign drivers.
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SCT Logistics – Employs mechanics and technicians for rail and road fleets, with employer-nominated visas.
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WesTrac – Major employer of diesel mechanics and heavy equipment technicians in the mining sector.
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State Government Programs – Many regional employers receive sponsorship from states like Western Australia or Queensland to bring in skilled workers, including truck drivers and mechanics.
Visa Pathways for Truck Drivers and Mechanics
Canada
1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
Employers can sponsor workers through a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Successful applicants get a closed work permit.
2. Express Entry (Federal Skilled Trades Program)
Mechanics may qualify through the FSTP, especially with Canadian job offers.
3. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Some provinces have dedicated streams for transport and trades workers.
4. Atlantic Immigration Program
Applies to eligible employers in Atlantic provinces hiring truck drivers or mechanics.
Australia
1. Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
Allows employers to sponsor foreign workers for up to 4 years. Truck drivers and diesel mechanics are on many state occupation lists.
2. Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
Pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer.
3. Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 494)
For jobs in regional areas ideal for mechanics and drivers willing to work outside major cities.
4. State Nominated Skilled Visa (Subclass 190 / 491)
Truck drivers and mechanics are on state occupation lists in several territories.
Requirements to Apply
While the exact criteria vary by country and job, most visa-sponsored roles for truck drivers and mechanics require:
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Valid and verifiable work experience (2+ years preferred)
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Relevant certification or training (Red Seal for Canada, AQF for Australia)
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A clean driving record (for drivers)
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Language proficiency (IELTS or equivalent may be required)
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A job offer from a sponsoring employer
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Willingness to relocate and adapt to local work conditions
How to Find Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
1. Use Official Job Portals:
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Canada Job Bank (jobbank.gc.ca)
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Immigration.ca job board
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Workforce Australia (jobs.gov.au)
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SEEK.com.au
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LinkedIn – use filters like “visa sponsorship” and “relocation available”
2. Apply Directly to Company Careers Pages
Visit the employer websites listed above and look for international hiring or immigration programs.
3. Work with Licensed Recruitment Agencies
Some agencies specialize in trades and transport workers and handle the visa paperwork on your behalf.
4. Stay Updated on Government Occupation Lists
Immigration needs change often. Regularly check the Canadian and Australian government websites for updates on in-demand occupations and visa pathways.
Need help crafting a winning CV, cover letter, or email template? Book a one-on-one consultation for guidance tailored to your goals: https://selar.com/Book.A.Session
If you’re a qualified truck driver or mechanic looking to live and work abroad in 2025, Canada and Australia offer some of the best opportunities, with visa sponsorship, competitive salaries, and long-term career growth. Both countries view foreign trades workers as essential to their economies and have streamlined immigration processes to bring them in.
Start by building a strong resume, getting your certifications in order, and targeting employers with active sponsorship programs.
