Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander confirmed that the Philippines has become the top source of immigrants to Canada, with more than 40,000 Filipinos arriving in 2014 – a 30% increase over 2013.
“Immigration is a key element of Canadian culture. Since 2010, Canada has welcomed an average of more than 260,000 permanent residents each year. The Filipino community makes up a large part of our overall immigration and the government celebrates the many contributions that Filipino Canadians make to Canada,” Mr. Alexander said.
The Philippines was the top source of migrants entering Canada from 2010 to 2012, moving to second place behind China in 2013. Canada also issued about 47,000 visitor visas to Filipino nationals in 2014, a 56% increase since 2006.
Over 700,000 Canadian residents can trace their roots back to the Philippines. Additionally, a growing number of Filipino nationals visit Canada, study at Canadian academic institutions, or immigrate to Canada as permanent residents.
“Canada benefited from robust immigration from the Philippines in 2014. Students and permanent residents from around the world as well as visitors continue to strengthen Canada’s economy and communities,” said Alexander.
However, with the introduction of the Express Entry system, experts expect a decline in the number of Filipino immigrants coming to Canada.
