Survey Reveals the Rate of Immigrants Leaving Canada

Canada stands as a land of opportunity, drawing people from around the globe with its promise of a better quality of life and strong economic prospects.

Year after year, thousands arrive, attracted by the nation’s reputation for welcoming newcomers and providing a canvas for their dreams and aspirations.

However, despite its many virtues, the journey for immigrants is not without its challenges, including integration hurdles and the high cost of living, which can lead to a sense of disappointment.

Consequently, these drawbacks prompt some immigrants to make the difficult decision to return to their homelands, reflecting the complex balance between the allure of Canadian life and its potential challenges.

According to a report published by Statistics Canada on February 2, 2024, a significant number of immigrants have chosen to leave Canada, citing various reasons for their departure.

The study, which analyzed data from 1982 to 2017, found that approximately 15 percent of immigrants depart within 20 years of arriving, with the majority leaving between three to seven years after their arrival.

The latest Focus Canada survey by the Environics Institute in Toronto indicates growing concern among Canadians that the country is admitting too many immigrants.

For example, between 2022 and 2023, Canada welcomed over a million immigrants, marking a historic high and a significant increase of nearly 500,000 more than the previous year.

This influx has sparked concerns, especially regarding its impact on affordable housing availability.

Despite initial attempts to integrate within the first three to seven years, many immigrants leave Canada due to a combination of economic, personal, and social challenges.

Research by the Institute for Canadian Citizenship and the Conference Board of Canada highlights difficulties in economic integration, underemployment due to unrecognized credentials, and challenges in achieving homeownership as key factors.

Social issues, such as experiences of racism, a lack of belonging, and the emotional pull of family ties and homesickness, play significant roles.

Additionally, the harsh Canadian winters and the high cost of living in cities like Toronto and Vancouver compound these challenges, making the prospect of better opportunities or more favorable living conditions in other countries more appealing.

source: statcan.gc.ca