The number of students and residents moving to Canada from Italy has more than doubled since 2005, according to the Department of Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
For several decades since the late 1960s, Italian immigration to Canada had been steadily declining. However, since 2005 the number of permanent residents coming from Italy has jumped 140 percent, while the number of students has increased by 90 percent.
“Our government is proud to announce that an increasing number of Italians have chosen Canada as their new home in recent years,” said Canada’s Immigration Minister Chris Alexander upon announcing the news. “The substantial increase in individuals settling in Canada from Italy is an indication of the strong ties that exist between our two countries and highlights our government’s commitment to sustaining high rates of immigration to Canada.”
Among the 823 new permanent residents from Italy last year, there were 500 admitted as economic-class immigrants. Another 294 residents were welcomed under the family class.
Italians have a strong cultural history in Canada, having contributed to the growth of this country for decades. Most major cities boast Italian communities (often known as “Little Italy”) where Italians and Canadians of other cultural backgrounds can come together to share and enjoy Italian food and heritage.
“For decades now, Canada has benefited from the talent and hard work of newcomers from Italy,” said Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney. “Italian immigrants continue to play an important role in strengthening Canada’s cultural fabric.”
Source: Citizenship and Immigration Canada
