Starting fresh in a new country comes with its own challenges, and one of the easiest ways to get into the workforce in Canada is through delivery jobs. These roles offer flexibility, quick entry, and a chance to earn while gaining experience. Whether it’s gig work with Uber Eats or DoorDash, courier services like Amazon and FedEx, or even truck driving for logistics, delivery jobs give newcomers a practical pathway to settle and earn.
The key to success in these roles is understanding the rules, requirements, and opportunities. With recent changes in Canadian policies, especially in provinces like Ontario, the “Canadian experience” requirement has been relaxed for many positions, making it easier for new immigrants to apply and get started. At the same time, certain sectors, particularly transportation and logistics, face high demand but also oversaturation, meaning competition is real and knowing the system is essential.
This guide walks you through everything from eligibility, certificates, costs, wages, and tips to thrive in delivery jobs in Canada, giving you a complete understanding of what to expect.
Key Requirements for Delivery Jobs in Canada
Driver’s License: You need a valid Canadian driver’s license. New immigrants can exchange foreign licenses in most provinces. For standard delivery, licenses like Class G (Ontario) are common, while commercial delivery requires Class A or D, often including air brake endorsement and medical exams. Expect costs between $90–$300 depending on tests and endorsements.
Work Permit/Visa: Open work permits, LMIA-supported positions, or Express Entry programs are the main paths. LMIA approval is usually needed for employer-sponsored roles. Some high-demand jobs are exempt from needing prior Canadian experience.
Certificates and Training:
- Clean driving abstract from provincial offices.
- Food handling certificate for food deliveries.
- Background check for gig platforms.
- Proof of vehicle insurance.
- Language proficiency (CLB 4+) can help with immigration points.
Other Essentials: Owning or renting a vehicle is required, and apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats need your vehicle registered on their platforms.
Costs to Start a Delivery Job
Starting a delivery job requires upfront and ongoing costs. Here’s a breakdown:
- Immigration/Relocation: Work permit $155, biometrics $85, settlement costs around $1,500–$3,000/month.
- Licensing/Training: $200–$500 for tests and certificates.
- Vehicle/Equipment: Bike rental $100/month, car insurance $150–$300/month, fuel/maintenance $200–$400/month.
- Gig Platform Fees: 15–30% commission per delivery; joining is free.
- Living Expenses: Expect $2,000–$4,000/month in major cities for rent, food, and transport.
Even with the costs, delivery jobs can start earning quickly, especially gig platforms where you can work part-time or full-time.
Wages and Income Expectations
Delivery jobs in Canada vary depending on full-time, part-time, or gig work. Salaries also depend on the province and role type.
- Gig Delivery (DoorDash, Uber Eats): $15–$25 per hour including tips. Part-time annual earning: $30,000–$50,000.
- Courier Services (Amazon, FedEx): $18–$28 per hour, annual $35,000–$55,000. Rural areas may pay more due to shortages.
- Truck Drivers: $20–$36 per hour; $40,000–$75,000 annually. High-demand provinces like Alberta offer $25–$40/hour for rural routes.
Some platforms and employers offer sign-up bonuses ($200–$500) for initial deliveries, while unionized courier roles include health coverage and other benefits. Recent labor law updates also protect minimum wages during active work hours for gig workers.
| Role | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary | Province Variations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gig Delivery | $15–$25 | $30,000–$50,000 | Higher in BC/ON |
| Courier | $18–$28 | $35,000–$55,000 | Alberta rural +10% |
| Truck Driver | $20–$36 | $40,000–$75,000 | Shortage boosts pay |
Step-by-Step Guide to Securing a Delivery Job
- Check Eligibility: Confirm work permit options via IRCC. Open permits allow immediate start.
- Prepare Resume: Canadian-style, 1–2 pages, focus on skills like safe driving and customer service. No photo.
- Search and Apply: Use Job Bank or Indeed, filter by LMIA-approved listings. Network on LinkedIn.
- Gig Platforms: Register on DoorDash, Uber Eats, or SkipTheDishes. Quick start, no LMIA needed.
- Employer-Sponsored Jobs: Companies like Purolator and Canada Post may handle LMIA for foreign workers.
- Timing: Peak hiring during spring/summer for e-commerce deliveries. Check weekly updates.
- Build Local Experience: Volunteer or take short courses while applying for full-time work.
Common Challenges and Real Experiences
- Oversaturation: Many immigrants in delivery roles lead to competition and wage suppression.
- Gig Worker Concerns: Ontario’s 2026 gig laws provide protections, but critics note gaps in minimum wage coverage during downtime.
- Safety Risks: Driving in snow/ice, long hours, and theft remain concerns.
- Social Media Insights: Immigrants share experiences on X (formerly Twitter) highlighting both opportunities and challenges. Positive: flexible schedules, easy entry. Negative: low pay, harsh conditions.
Tips to Succeed in Delivery Jobs
- Keep a clean driving record and valid documents.
- Start with gig apps while applying for higher-paying courier roles.
- Track earnings and expenses carefully to maximize profits.
- Build credibility with employers by showing reliability and punctuality.
- Upskill: Consider commercial licenses or logistics certifications for long-term growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I work without Canadian experience?
Yes, Ontario and some other provinces now allow newcomers to apply for delivery jobs without prior Canadian experience.
Q: How quickly can I start earning?
Gig apps allow earnings in 24–48 hours after account setup. Employer-sponsored roles vary depending on LMIA processing.
Q: Is it better to start with gig work or courier jobs?
Gig work is quicker to start, while courier jobs offer higher pay and benefits long-term.
Q: Are tips included in earnings?
Yes, for food delivery, tips form a significant portion of total earnings.
Q: Do I need a vehicle for gig platforms?
Yes. Bikes, scooters, or cars are required depending on the platform and delivery type.
Conclusion
Delivery jobs in Canada provide a realistic starting point for new immigrants looking to enter the workforce quickly. They offer flexibility, immediate income, and a pathway to higher-paying logistics roles. By understanding requirements, costs, and wages, newcomers can make informed choices and build a reliable income source. Focus on building experience, keeping records clean, and taking advantage of gig platforms while aiming for long-term opportunities in courier or truck driving positions.