If you’re planning to take up long haul trucking jobs that require you to cross the border to the US, you will need a visa. While it is a lengthy process, it is not complicated and opens up a number of career opportunities for you. It also comes with better pay! Here’s more information about the process and requirements.
1. Visa Types for Long-haul Truckers from Canada
Commercial truck drivers in Canada typically require either a B-1 or B-2 visa.
1. B-1 Visa
It is recommended for business visitors, including truck drivers hauling freight across the border. To qualify for this visa, you’ll must fulfill this criteria:
- Be a permanent resident or citizen in a foreign country, which you have no intention of abandoning
- You must intend to leave the United States at the end of your authorized period of temporary admission
- You must have adequate financial resources to support your stay and departure from the United States
2. B-2 Visa
Generally for tourists but sometimes used for short business visits. Criteria is as follows:
- Must be for tourism, vacation, visiting friends/relatives, medical treatment, or attending non-paid social events
- Must have a foreign residence with no intention of abandoning it
- Must intend to leave the United States at the end of the authorized stay
- Must have adequate financial resources to cover expenses during the stay and for departure
Most truck drivers opt for the B-1 visa as it focuses on business activities. For both visas, you will be inadmissible if you have health, criminal, subversive, public charge, improper arrival, or other immigration violations.
2. Gather Required Documents
Your visa application will need the following document:
- Your Canadian passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in the US
- A letter from your employer outlining your job, purpose of the trip, and intended stay in the US
- Documents proving you will return to Canada, such as a lease agreement, property ownership, or family ties
- Complete DS-160 Form online. This form is available online on the US Department of State’s website. Fill out this form accurately and honestly, as any discrepancies can lead to delays or denial. You will need:
- Personal information (name, address, contact details)
- Passport information
- Travel plans and details
- Employment information
After completing the form, you will receive a DS-160 confirmation page, which you must print and bring to your visa interview.
3. Visa Interview
Once the DS-160 form is submitted, schedule your visa interview at the nearest US embassy or consulate. For the interview, bring these documents along with you:
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Visa application fee receipt
- Canadian passport
- Supporting documents: employment letter, evidence of ties to canada, and any other relevant documents
Arrive early and dress professionally for the interview. During the interview, the consular officer will ask about your travel plans, employment, and reasons for visiting the US. Answer confidently and provide all requested documents.
The officer will give you an answer right away. If approved, your passport with the visa will be returned within a few days. Only some rare cases need additional administrative processing, so approval can take longer.
For more detailed guidance and resources, consider consulting immigration experts or your employer’s human resources department. Safe travels!Hire an immigration consultation for accurate guidance and resources. For more trucking career advice, follow Caledon Truck Driving School.
