Canadian Newcomers: A Look at Immigration Trends

Canada is a popular country for people who want to start a new life. Every year, hundreds of thousands of newcomers arrive in Canada to work, study, and live. If you are a newcomer, have you ever wondered where other newcomers come from? Where do they tend to live? Let’s explore some of the biggest immigration trends in Canada over the last 10 years.

India: The Leading Country of Immigration

One country stands out more than any other: India. Since 2015, India has been the top country of birth for new immigrants to Canada. In fact, in recent years, more than 25% of newcomers have come from India. Many of these immigrants are skilled workers, international students, or family members joining loved ones. Canada offers clear immigration pathways for international students and skilled workers, both of which are popular with young Indians. Moreover, English is widely spoken and taught in India, giving Indian applicants a natural advantage in meeting language requirements for immigration programs.

In provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Manitoba, India is either the first or second biggest source of newcomers. If you live in these provinces, does this seem true?

Philippines: Strong Numbers in the West

The Philippines is another major source of newcomers to Canada. It is especially important in Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan. In Alberta,Manitoba and Saskatchewan, Filipinos make up around 20–25% of newcomers.

Many Filipino immigrants come to Canada through programs like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or as caregivers. They often work in healthcare, hospitality, and construction. With significantly better pay, a strong job market, and a favorable CAD–PHP exchange rate, many Filipino immigrants can support their families back home more easily.

China: A Historic Source of Immigrants

China has also been a major source of newcomers to Canada for many years. In British Columbia, Chinese immigrants make up around 16% of newcomers. In Ontario and Saskatchewan, China is often in the top three source countries. Chinese immigrants include students, skilled workers, and people joining family in Canada. Many Chinese adults bring their children to Canada for a high-quality education in an English-speaking institution/university. Education for international students is always quite high, but still more affordable than in the U.S. or U.K. Moreover, Canada has a long history of Chinese immigration (since the 1800s), with large communities in Vancouver, Richmond, Toronto, and Markham.

Nigeria: A Rising Newcomer Community

In recent years, Nigeria has become a fast-growing source of immigrants, especially in Alberta and Manitoba. In Manitoba, about 9% of new immigrants are from Nigeria. This number has increased quickly over the last few years. Nigerian newcomers are often skilled workers or arrive through refugee and humanitarian programs.

Like Chinese newcomers, education is a strong reason for Nigerians to move to the Great White North. And like Indians and Filipinos, they have an English-language advantage from their home country, where many classes are taught in English.

What This Means for Newcomers

If you’re new to Canada (or planning to come), it’s helpful to know where others from your home country are living. Larger communities often mean better support, easier access to cultural events, and more chances to speak your language. If you’re from India, you might find strong communities in Ontario and BC. For a Filipino, towns & cities in Alberta or Manitoba could feel like home. If you’re from China, BC is a great place to find a large Chinese-Canadian population (especially in and near Vancouver). Nigerians may wish to check out familiar communities in Manitoba and Alberta.

Canada is a diverse and welcoming country. No matter where you're from, you’re likely to find people with similar experiences and stories. Talk with immigration professionals and see what options are best for you. Welcome to Canada!

Primary Sources: Statistics Canada – 2021 Census Data on Immigration and Citizenship. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) – Annual Reports to Parliament