A recent poll commissioned by CBC News reveals that more than 80% of newcomers believe Canada is admitting too many immigrants and international students without proper planning for housing, infrastructure, or job opportunities.
The survey, conducted by Pollara Strategic Insights in November 2024, gathered responses from 1,507 newcomers to Canada who arrived between 2014 and 2024. It paints a nuanced picture of immigrant experiences, highlighting both the challenges they face and their overall satisfaction with life in Canada.
Key Findings of the Survey
Concerns About Immigration Planning
- 80% of newcomers agreed the Canadian government is accepting too many immigrants without addressing housing, healthcare, or employment needs.
- This sentiment aligns with findings from a separate Leger poll where 65% of Canadians expressed similar concerns.
Dr. Shabnoor Abdullateef, a physician from Iran who immigrated in 2022, reflects the frustration of many professionals unable to work in their fields.
“There was absolutely no thinking behind this,” said Abdullateef, who now works in healthcare administration despite being a trained doctor.
14% of working newcomers are unemployed, double Canada’s national average.
- 44% reported being unemployed or working outside their area of expertise.
- Many cited difficulties transferring foreign credentials or gaining recognition for prior work experience.
Immigration lawyer Lou Janssen Dangzalan, who faced similar challenges upon migrating to Canada, said, “It’s a hard reset for many professionals.”
- 60% of racialized newcomers reported experiencing discrimination during job searches, compared to 40% of white newcomers.
- South Asians faced the highest levels of racism (66%), partly due to their visibility as the largest immigrant group.
- Despite the challenges, the majority of newcomers expressed satisfaction with their lives in Canada:
- 79% said they were happy with their quality of life.
- 75% appreciated access to education and work-life balance.
However, 42% said they would consider leaving Canada for better opportunities elsewhere, including in the U.S. or Europe, where credential recognition and employment pathways are reportedly easier.
Alfred Lam, Executive Director of the Centre for Immigrant and Community Services, emphasized that newcomers’ frustrations stem from systemic issues rather than anti-immigrant sentiment.
“You can shut down immigration tomorrow, and you will still have a housing crisis,” he said.
Immigration lawyer Jatin Shory noted that the employment landscape has changed significantly compared to previous decades.
“The opportunity my parents had in the 1980s isn’t the same for today’s immigrants,” he said.
The survey underscores the pressing need for reforms in Canada’s immigration and integration systems. While newcomers value the safety and freedom Canada offers, many believe the country must better leverage their talents and address systemic barriers to create a more inclusive and prosperous society.
Courtesy CBC ( cbc.ca)