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Can truck drivers get a long-term visa in the EU?

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Can truck drivers get a long-term visa in the EU?
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20th Nov 1226 Views

Truck drivers are among the most in-demand workers in Europe. With a shortage of drivers across logistics, transportation, and international freight sectors, many EU countries actively hire non-EU citizens for long-term employment.

A common question from applicants is whether truck drivers can receive a long-term visa or residence permit. The answer is yes. Many EU countries offer long-term work permits and residence cards to qualified drivers, especially those with a CE category licence and Code 95 certification.

Can Truck Drivers Get a Long-Term Visa in the EU?

Yes. Truck drivers can receive long-term work visas and residence permits in many EU countries. These visas usually range from one to two years, with the option for renewal. In some cases, these permits can also lead to long-term residence or permanent residency, depending on the country and duration of stay.

Truck drivers are classified as skilled or semi-skilled workers because the job requires:

  • a valid CE driving licence

  • Code 95 (professional competence)

  • safe driving skills

  • ability to handle long routes

Due to these requirements, European employers often sponsor long-term permits instead of short-term visas.

Which EU Countries Offer Long-Term Visas for Truck Drivers?

Several EU countries actively recruit foreign truck drivers and issue long-term work permits:

Lithuania
One of the most popular destinations. Drivers receive a 1–2 year Temporary Residence Permit with fast processing. Code 95 training is usually included.

Poland
Offers Type D visas and Temporary Residence Cards (TRC) valid for up to 3 years, renewable with employer support.

Romania
Provides long-term work permits for CE drivers, with options to extend annually.

Czech Republic
Drivers can apply for the Employee Card, valid for up to 2 years.

Germany
Though requirements are stricter, Germany hires foreign drivers through companies offering long-term contracts.

Latvia, Slovakia, Hungary
These countries frequently hire international truck drivers and issue regular work residence permits.

How Long Are These Visas Valid?

Visa validity depends on the country, but the most common durations are:

  • 1 year (renewable)

  • 2 years (especially in Lithuania and Czech Republic)

  • Up to 3 years (in some cases, such as Poland TRC)

As long as the driver remains employed with the same company and follows local rules, renewal is usually straightforward.

What Requirements Do Truck Drivers Need to Qualify?

Truck driver visa requirements in the EU often include:

  • valid CE category driving licence

  • Code 95 (or willingness to obtain it in the EU)

  • clean criminal record

  • medical fitness clearance

  • employment contract

  • passport valid for at least 12–24 months

  • driving experience (recommended but varies by employer)

Some countries allow Code 95 training after arrival, while others require it before visa submission.

Does a Truck Driver Visa Lead to Long-Term Residency?

Yes. Many EU countries offer pathways from a truck driver visa to long-term residency. After working legally for several years, drivers may become eligible for:

  • long-term EU residence

  • permanent residency

  • family reunification (country-specific)

  • citizenship after meeting required years of stay and language criteria

Truck driving is considered a stable occupation, which helps in residence permit renewals.

Are Truck Drivers in Demand in Europe?

Yes. Europe faces a shortage of more than 300,000 truck drivers. Demand is high due to:

  • ageing workforce

  • increasing freight movement

  • cross-border logistics growth

  • limited local applicants for long-haul routes

Because of this, EU companies regularly hire foreign drivers and offer strong long-term contracts.

Benefits of a Long-Term EU Visa for Truck Drivers

Working as a driver in the EU offers several advantages:

  • long-term employment stability

  • legal stay with residence rights

  • higher earnings compared to home countries

  • overtime and trip allowances

  • opportunities for internal EU routes

  • future eligibility for long-term residency

  • improved living standards for family

For many workers, truck driving becomes a long-term career pathway in Europe.

Conclusion

Truck drivers can absolutely get long-term visas in many EU countries. With high demand across the region, qualified drivers with CE licences and Code 95 have strong chances of obtaining stable contracts, 1–2 year residence permits, and long-term career growth.

For those looking to build a secure future in Europe, truck driving remains one of the most reliable employment options.
EUHelpers continues to support candidates in understanding requirements, preparing documents, and connecting with verified employers across the EU.

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