Immigration routes for truck drivers

Truck driving was UK shortage-listed during the 2021–24 supply-chain pressure (SOC 8211) but eligibility narrowed under 2024 skill-level reforms. Australia subclass 482 (733111 Truck Driver) requires TRA assessment; Canada NOC 73300 via Federal Skilled Trades and PNP streams. Local commercial-licence conversion (LGV, CDL, HC) is a separate post-arrival step in every destination.

Also searched as: HGV driver, lorry driver, long-haul driver, semi-trailer driver.

What decides which route fits

Skilled trades usually require a formal skills assessment or trade recognition alongside the visa, so factor that step into your timeline wherever you apply.

By destination

Frequently asked questions

Do truck drivers need a job offer to work abroad?+

It depends on the route. Many countries offer skilled-migration or self-employment routes that do not require a job offer up front, while employer-sponsored work visas do. The country guides below flag which of each destination's routes need a sponsor.

Which countries have visa routes for truck drivers?+

We map truck driver routes across all 178 full-coverage destinations we cover, and 11 currently have at least one route that fits truck drivers directly. Open any country below for its specific routes and official sources.

Do truck drivers need to requalify to work in another country?+

Often there is a recognition or skills-assessment step in addition to the visa, and it varies by country. Check the destination guide below for the specifics where it applies.