On This Page, You Will Find:
- The top 20 source countries for new permanent residents in 2024
- Total immigration numbers and key trends
- Why these countries have high immigration numbers
- How immigrants contribute to Canada
- A helpful FAQ section about Canadian PR
Canada Welcomed 483,390 New Permanent Residents in 2024
Canada remains a top destination for immigrants worldwide. In 2024, Canada granted permanent residency to 483,390 newcomers, reinforcing its commitment to welcoming skilled workers, families, and refugees.
The top 20 citizenships of new permanent residents accounted for a significant portion of total immigration.
Many newcomers arrived through economic immigration programs, family sponsorships, and refugee resettlement initiatives.
Below is a breakdown of the top 20 source countries for new PRs in Canada in 2024.
1. India
- New PRs: 127,320
- Why?
India remains the top source of new PRs due to its large number of skilled workers, students, and family-sponsored immigrants. Many Indians arrive through Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
2. Philippines
- New PRs: 32,300
- Why?
Many Filipinos immigrate to Canada as skilled workers, caregivers, and through family reunification programs. The strong demand for healthcare workers in Canada attracts many Filipinos.
3. China
- New PRs: 29,950
- Why?
Chinese immigrants arrive in Canada through economic programs, international student pathways, and family sponsorships. Canada’s strong education system is a key attraction.
4. Cameroon
- New PRs: 21,200
- Why?
The number of Cameroonian immigrants has increased due to Canada’s welcoming policies for skilled workers and refugees. Many Cameroonians settle in Quebec due to shared language and culture.
5. Nigeria
- New PRs: 20,380
- Why?
Nigeria is a major source of skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and students. Many Nigerian professionals immigrate through Express Entry and PNPs.
6. Eritrea
- New PRs: 16,585
- Why?
Eritrean immigration to Canada is primarily driven by refugee resettlement programs. Many Eritreans arrive seeking better opportunities and safety.
7. Afghanistan
- New PRs: 12,280
- Why?
Canada has prioritized resettling Afghan refugees in recent years. Many Afghan immigrants arrive through humanitarian programs and family reunification.
8. Pakistan
- New PRs: 11,940
- Why?
Pakistani immigrants often come through family sponsorship, Express Entry, and student pathways. Canada’s multicultural society makes it an attractive destination.
9. Iran
- New PRs: 11,150
- Why?
Many Iranians move to Canada as skilled professionals, students, and entrepreneurs. Canada’s favourable policies for international graduates help Iranians transition to PR status.
10. France
- New PRs: 9,940
- Why?
French-speaking immigrants benefit from Canada’s francophone immigration programs. Many French citizens settle in Quebec or Ontario for economic and lifestyle opportunities.
11. United States
- New PRs: 9,320
- Why?
Americans immigrate to Canada for work opportunities, family sponsorship, and lifestyle changes. Many come through Express Entry and NAFTA-related programs.
12. Colombia
- New PRs: 8,850
- Why?
Canada’s growing Latin American community and strong economic ties make it an attractive destination for Colombian immigrants.
13. Algeria
- New PRs: 8,255
- Why?
Many Algerians move to Canada, particularly Quebec, due to shared language and culture. Economic programs and family sponsorship drive Algerian immigration.
14. Syria
- New PRs: 7,745
- Why?
Canada continues to accept Syrian refugees through humanitarian programs, offering them safety and stability.
15. Morocco
- New PRs: 7,630
- Why?
Morocco has strong cultural and linguistic ties to Canada, especially Quebec. Many Moroccans arrive as skilled workers or through family sponsorship.
16. Ukraine
- New PRs: 6,780
- Why?
Canada’s emergency immigration pathways for Ukrainians have allowed thousands to resettle in the country due to ongoing instability in Ukraine.
17. Vietnam
- New PRs: 6,710
- Why?
Many Vietnamese immigrants move to Canada for economic opportunities, education, and family reunification.
18. Mexico
- New PRs: 6,410
- Why?
Canada’s trade and work agreements with Mexico encourage skilled workers and entrepreneurs to immigrate. Family sponsorship is also a significant factor.
19. Brazil
- New PRs: 5,985
- Why?
Brazilian immigrants often come to Canada for business opportunities, higher education, and work permits leading to PR.
20. Somalia
- New PRs: 5,790
- Why?
Canada has welcomed Somali refugees for decades, with many arriving through humanitarian programs and family sponsorships.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many new permanent residents did Canada welcome in 2024?
Canada welcomed 483,390 new permanent residents in 2024. This includes skilled workers, family-sponsored immigrants, refugees, and international graduates transitioning to PR.
Why is India the top source country for new PRs in Canada?
India consistently ranks first due to its high number of skilled professionals, international students, and family-sponsored immigrants. Many Indians use Express Entry and PNPs to obtain PR status.
What immigration programs are available for newcomers to Canada?
Canada offers multiple immigration pathways, including Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), family sponsorship, refugee resettlement, and the Start-Up Visa program for entrepreneurs.
Which Canadian provinces receive the most immigrants?
Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec receive the highest number of newcomers. However, Alberta, Manitoba, and Atlantic provinces are attracting more immigrants through PNPs.
What is Canada’s immigration target for 2025?
Canada’s immigration target for 2025 is 395,000 new permanent residents. This is part of the country’s plan to balance economic needs and integration capacity.
Top Destination For Immigrants
Canada remains a top destination for immigrants worldwide. In 2024, the country welcomed 483,390 new permanent residents, with India, the Philippines, and China leading the way. With strong immigration programs and a growing demand for skilled workers, Canada continues to be a land of opportunity for newcomers.
