Canada has long been a beacon of hope and opportunity for millions of people around the globe. However, a recent poll conducted by CBC News sheds light on the growing challenges newcomers face after arriving in the country. The findings are concerning: over 80% of immigrants believe that the Canadian government is not adequately planning for housing, infrastructure, or employment opportunities. Additionally, nearly 40% (or 2 in 5) of new immigrants are contemplating leaving Canada due to barriers in employment, lack of housing, and discrimination.

Overwhelming Concerns About Canada Immigration Planning

The survey conducted by Pollara Strategic Insights, which involved over 1,500 newcomers, revealed that four out of five participants feel that Canada has been too eager to accept permanent residents and international students without proper long-term planning. Many immigrants, like Shabnoor Abdullateef, a physician from Iran, have found themselves frustrated by the lack of foresight in managing housing and healthcare for newcomers. She shared, “There was absolutely no thinking behind this,” referring to the mismanagement of basic necessities for immigrants.
A significant majority of Canadians, according to a separate Leger poll, also agree—65% believe the government is not adequately preparing for immigration levels. These overwhelming concerns are leading to dissatisfaction, which could ultimately contribute to reverse migration.

Growing Immigration Numbers

Since 2014, Canada has welcomed over 5 million newcomers, with 662,000 permanent and temporary residents joining the country in 2024 alone. These numbers, though impressive, have not alleviated the strain on Canada’s housing and job markets. Alfred Lam, the executive director of the Centre for Immigrant and Community Services, noted that newcomers are often unfairly blamed for these crises. “The housing crisis existed even when borders were closed during the pandemic,” Lam emphasized, pointing out that housing and employment challenges existed long before the surge in immigration.

Barriers to Employment and Credential Recognition

One of the most glaring challenges for newcomers is securing employment in their fields. According to the CBC poll, 14% of working immigrants were unemployed—double the national average at the time. Additionally, nearly half (44%) of newcomers reported being either underemployed or working outside their expertise. Many cite the lack of recognition for foreign credentials as a major hurdle.
One in four respondents stated that their previous work experience was “not acknowledged,” and one-sixth reported that their academic qualifications were “not recognized.” This widespread devaluation of international work experience is particularly frustrating for immigrants like Abdullateef, who spent $33,000 on a postgraduate certificate in healthcare administration in Canada but is unable to practice medicine due to insufficient recognition.

Racial Discrimination Among Newcomers

Discrimination remains another serious issue, especially for racialized newcomers. One in nine immigrants reported facing ethnic discrimination during their job search, with South Asians experiencing the highest rate of racism at 66%. Immigration lawyer Jatin Shory noted, “South Asians often become scapegoats for anti-immigrant sentiment due to their large numbers.”

Economic Hardships Among Newcomers

Financial challenges are another major hurdle. One in four newcomers reports household incomes below $30,000. For racialized immigrants, the unemployment rate remains disproportionately high, making it harder for them to build financial stability.
Akash Shah, a business development manager from India, moved from Regina to Calgary for better job opportunities and social connections. “Social meetups in Calgary were 10 times what I found in Regina,” Shah shared.

Underutilization of Immigrant Talent

Canada has a critical opportunity to capitalize on the skills and talents of its immigrant population, but this potential remains largely untapped. According to a C.D. Howe Institute study, university-educated immigrants are three times more likely to be underemployed compared to Canadian-born workers.
The mismanagement of talent is best exemplified by Abdullateef’s experience. “Two million Ontarians don’t have family doctors, yet I’m unable to work as a physician here,” she lamented, pointing to the country’s outdated policies on utilizing immigrant talent.

Rising Dissatisfaction Leads to Potential Reverse Migration

Despite Canada’s many advantages, dissatisfaction among newcomers is rising. Nearly 42% of survey respondents said they would consider leaving Canada if given the opportunity. Skilled professionals, in particular, feel frustrated by barriers to employment in their fields.
Shabnoor Abdullateef, who once chose Canada to build her future, is now exploring opportunities in the U.S. and Germany. “It’s heartbreaking,” she said. “I may have to move elsewhere.”

The Path to Your Future: How ICC Immigration Can Help

Navigating these challenges can feel overwhelming, but ICC Immigration is here to help you secure your future in Canada. Our experienced team is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the immigration process, ensuring you avoid the pitfalls of relying on uncertain asylum claims.
Our Services Include:

• Permanent Residency Applications: Whether through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or other pathways, we ensure your PR application is processed smoothly and efficiently.
• Work Permits and Study Permits: Explore temporary options to establish your career or education in Canada, with a clear path to PR.
• Family Sponsorships: If you have family members in Canada, we can help you reunite with them and secure your PR status.
• Expert Legal Advice: Immigration policies can be complex, and we offer professional legal guidance to ensure your application complies with current regulations and maximizes your chances of success.

By choosing a pathway through ICC Immigration, you take control of your future—offering stability, security, and a clear path to permanent residency in Canada. Whether you’re already in Canada or planning your immigration journey, we provide the proper guidance to help you navigate the process confidently.