Canada’s population reaches 40 million people thanks to immigration

This article was last updated on June 19, 2023

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Statistics Canada has a “population clock”, which estimates Canada’s population in real time based on a number of factors like recent trends for births, deaths, and migration data. The clock hit 40 million today just before 3 pm on Friday June 16.

“This is an exciting milestone for Canada. It is a strong signal that Canada remains a dynamic and welcoming country, full of potential” said chief statistician Anil Arora in a media statement.

Canada’s population growth rate currently stands at 2.7 per cent, which is the highest annual growth rate since 1957, when Canada was experiencing its post-war baby boom.

Canada’s population reached 30 million in 1997 and could reach 50 million as early as 2043 if the current trends continue, according to Statistics Canada.

Last year, Canada’s population increased by a record of 1.05 million people. Statistics Canada reported that 96 per cent of that increase was due to international (permanent and temporary) migration.

In 2022, Canada welcomed 437,180 immigrants into the country, reflecting Canada’s high immigration targets.

Immigration Levels Plan

Immigration is one of the main ways the country deals with its demographic challenges. Canada has an aging population, and the natural birth rate is not high enough to grow the population itself. As a result, Canada needs immigrants to help maintain and grow the country’s workforce.

Immigration accounts for almost 100% of Canada’s labor force growth. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, by 2023, immigrants are projected to be about 30% of Canada’s population.

Under Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan, Canada plans to welcome over 460,000 new immigrants each year. Canada’s immigration goals are to strengthen the economy, reunite families, and help refugees.

In 2023, Canada’s newcomer target is 465,000 new permanent residents. This goal will increase to 485,000 in 2024 and 500,000 in 2024.

Economic immigration is the biggest category under this plan, followed by family class immigration, demonstrating Canada’s commitment to reuniting families. The final category is the humanitarian and refugee category, which is to remain above 70,000 annually over the next three years.

Impact of Immigration

Immigration has been a significant driver of Canada’s population growth and has had a positive impact on various sectors and aspects of the country. Here are some key ways in which immigration has benefited Canada:

Economic Growth

Immigrants contribute to Canada’s economic growth by filling labor gaps and starting new businesses. They bring valuable skills, knowledge, and entrepreneurship, which helps stimulate innovation and job creation. Studies have shown that immigrants are more likely to start their own businesses compared to Canadian-born individuals.

Workforce Development

As Canada’s population ages and the birth rate declines, there is a growing need for a younger workforce. Immigrants play a crucial role in filling this gap and ensuring a sustainable workforce for the future. They bring diverse skills and experiences, enriching the labor market and helping to address labor shortages in various industries.

Cultural Diversity

Canada is known for its multiculturalism and diversity, and immigrants have played a significant role in shaping this aspect of Canadian identity. Through their diverse cultures, languages, and traditions, immigrants contribute to the cultural fabric of the country, fostering a rich and inclusive society.

Social Support Systems

As immigrants contribute to the economy and workforce, they also contribute to social support systems such as taxes and social security. The taxes paid by immigrants help fund public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, benefiting both immigrants and Canadian citizens.

Innovation and Research

Immigrants bring fresh perspectives, ideas, and skills to Canada, contributing to its innovation and research sectors. They have been key contributors to scientific advancements, technological breakthroughs, and academic research. By attracting talented individuals from around the world, Canada fosters a culture of innovation and knowledge exchange.

Conclusion

The milestone of Canada’s population reaching 40 million people is a testament to the country’s welcoming and inclusive nature. Immigration has played a crucial role in this growth, contributing to economic development, workforce sustainability, cultural diversity, and innovation. As Canada continues to embrace immigration and set ambitious newcomer targets, it is poised to further thrive and prosper as a nation.