Skilled newcomers are leaving Canada in record numbers: report | Canada Tonight

Summary

A new report from the Institute for Canadian Citizenship reveals that economic migrants selected by Canada are leaving the country at record rates, with French-speaking immigrants more likely to depart than their English-speaking counterparts. High turnover is particularly noticeable in Canada's largest cities, but immigrants in Atlantic provinces are more likely to stay after several years. Housing affordability is identified as a key driver for emigration. The report emphasizes the need for targeted retention strategies, highlighting that immigrants are crucial to addressing Canada's labor shortages, particularly in sectors like healthcare, early childhood education, and construction.

Takeaways

• 😀 Economic migrants selected by the Canadian government are leaving the country at record rates, according to a new report.
• 😀 French-speaking immigrants, particularly in Quebec and Ontario, are more likely to leave Canada than their English-speaking counterparts.
• 😀 Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver see high turnover rates, with immigrants often leaving after adjusting to life in these cities.
• 😀 Immigrants who settle in Atlantic Canada tend to leave within the first five years, but those who stay longer are more likely to remain in Canada permanently.
• 😀 Temporary foreign workers are more likely to stay in Canada after obtaining permanent residency than previously thought.
• 😀 Housing affordability is the main reason immigrants are leaving Canada, despite the misconception that they contribute to the housing crisis.
• 😀 Immigrants today are more skilled and educated than ever before, and many have global options, making them more likely to leave if conditions are not favorable in Canada.
• 😀 Canada’s immigration policies need to recognize that immigrants are highly valuable and not just beneficiaries of Canada’s generosity.
• 😀 There is a need for a diversified approach to immigrant retention, considering factors like language, region, and the specific needs of different communities.
• 😀 Addressing labor shortages in key sectors such as healthcare, childcare, and construction is essential to retaining immigrants and meeting Canada’s long-term needs.

Q & A

What does the new report commissioned by the Institute for Canadian Citizenship reveal about immigrants in Canada?

The report reveals that economic migrants selected by the government to come to Canada are leaving in record numbers. French-speaking immigrants, especially those in Quebec and Ontario, have a higher likelihood of leaving compared to their English-speaking counterparts. Major cities like Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver experience high turnover rates, and immigrants in Atlantic Canada are more likely to leave within the first five years.

Which group of immigrants is most likely to leave Canada according to the report?

French-speaking immigrants, particularly those in Quebec and Ontario, are more likely to leave Canada compared to their English-speaking counterparts. The report indicates that 35% of French-speaking immigrants are likely to leave in the long term.

What surprising finding emerged from the report regarding temporary foreign workers?

An interesting finding from the report was that temporary foreign workers are among the most likely to stay in Canada once they obtain permanent residency, contrary to common perceptions that they may leave after their temporary status ends.

What factors contribute to immigrants leaving Canada, as per previous studies mentioned in the report?

Previous studies by the Institute for Canadian Citizenship indicate that housing affordability is a major factor driving immigrants to leave Canada. Despite being blamed for Canada's housing crisis, immigrants often leave due to the high cost of housing, which disproportionately affects them.

How does the skill level of modern immigrants compare to past generations?

Today's immigrants are more skilled than previous generations. Many have advanced degrees, speak English and French fluently, and possess specialized skills, which gives them more global options and opportunities, unlike the immigrants of earlier generations who often arrived with fewer resources and skills.

Why is Canada’s immigration posture considered outdated in the report?

The report suggests that Canada’s immigration posture is outdated because it still views immigration primarily as an act of generosity, whereas the reality is that Canada needs immigrants more than they need Canada. This mismatch has not been fully addressed in the current immigration system.

What specific sectors in Canada face critical labor shortages that immigrants are meant to address?

Canada faces labor shortages in several sectors, including early childhood education, healthcare, and home construction. For example, there is a shortage of workers in daycare facilities, healthcare professions, and the construction industry, where pending retirements are adding to the strain.

What is the role of provincial governments and local communities in improving immigrant retention?

The report emphasizes that provincial governments and local communities have a key role to play in improving immigrant retention. It is not just the federal government’s responsibility, but also employers, neighbors, and colleagues must create a welcoming environment that helps immigrants succeed and feel settled in Canada.

How does the report suggest Canada should adapt its immigration system to improve retention?

The report suggests that Canada should adopt a more diversified approach to immigration, tailored to the specific needs of different immigrant groups, language backgrounds, and regions. It also highlights the importance of improving the immigrant experience and ensuring that they can succeed in meeting Canada's labor needs.

What is the long-term risk for Canada if the country fails to address immigrant retention, according to the report?

If Canada fails to address immigrant retention, the country risks losing skilled workers who were specifically selected to address key labor shortages. This would negatively impact sectors like healthcare and construction, further exacerbating Canada's economic challenges in the long run.