Why do Immigrants choose Canada? Have you ever wondered what makes the Great White North so appealing to immigrants, especially those from African countries like Nigeria? The reasons are innumerable and we’ll be taking a deep dive into what makes the North American country stand out in a bit, but get one thing straight. If you had any doubts regarding Canada being one of the most appealing countries immigrants love, Business Day explicitly reported that Canada ranks as the most desired country for immigration in a recent publication, ahead of Australia, the United Kingdom, and others.
So why do immigrants choose Canada? Canada’s thriving economy, standard of living, healthcare, educational system, and immigration policies/transition to Permanent Residency are major factors. Also, according to recent information from IRCC, Canada aims to welcome from 430,000 to 542,500 in 2024 and from 442,500 to 550,000 in 2025.
As a travel consultant with years of experience, I have witnessed firsthand the disparity in the number of immigrants keenly considering Canada as an immigration destination compared to other options. This is why I can tell you without mincing words; that Canada stands out as the top choice for the majority of immigrants, especially those from Nigeria, Ghana, and other African countries.
People immigrate to Canada for lots of reasons which can be summed up to one – the search for a better quality of life. In this blog post, I’ll take a deep dive into the 6 reasons that rank top of the pile from my experience. Set? Let’s get right in!
Why do Immigrants choose Canada?
1. Healthcare System
According to Macrotrends, life expectancy for Canada as of 2024, is 83.11 years which is a 0.18% increase from the stats as of 2023 which was 82.9 years. This is a clear indication of a working healthcare system and a high quality of life. Canadian Permanent Residents and Citizens enjoy free healthcare with the cost covered by taxes (Medicare). Since Canada has a clear pathway to obtaining permanent residence, the healthcare system is an additional incentive, encouraging immigrants to choose Canada over other options.
For the period when Permanent Residence has not been obtained, newcomer immigrants can also leverage private health insurance to cover their healthcare needs. By offering free healthcare to citizens and permanent residents funded through taxes, Canada shows that it is a country that is committed to the welfare of its inhabitants and this is a major attraction for immigrants seeking health security.
2. Safety
Canada has low crime rates. According to the Global Peace Index, Canada ranks top 10 on the list of the safest countries in the world. In a recent article published by Vanguard, reports indicate that Canada is the safest country to travel in 2024. With many countries in the world plagued with kidnapping, terrorism, and police brutality among other security threats, Canada offers a haven for people escaping violence or persecution. With low crime rates, political stability, and commitment to human rights, immigrants have peace of mind, knowing they and their families are safe.
The purpose of the Firearms Act of 1995 is to regulate licenses and authorizations of firearms, including prohibited or restricted firearms; the possession of prohibited or restricted weapons and any prohibited devices or ammunitions; and licenses for the sale or transfer of cross-bows.
Firearms Act of 1995
Additionally, Canada reduces gun violence by ensuring that gun owners are responsible. Since the Firearms Act of 1995 was passed, owning one requires that the individual is properly scrutinized with a thorough background check and licensing. Mandatory safety training is also a requirement. This ensures that firearm owners are safe and responsible, reducing the occurrence of gun-related incidents. This shows Canada’s commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all inhabitants, which attracts immigrants worldwide.
3. Education System
Canada has some of the best Institutions worldwide which is why many immigrants choose Canada. Not only does the country offer great education, but there are also amazing career prospects and opportunities after study. To top it all up, studying in Canada is also a pathway to obtaining permanent residence. This makes Canada attractive to immigrants who are unable to immigrate through other routes.
CIC NewsCanada is currently host to over 800,000 international students and works hard to position itself as a top destination for post-secondary education
Additionally, students can work up to 20 hours weekly while school is in session and full-time during holidays. Students who qualify for a post-graduate work permit (PGWP) can gain relevant work experience post-study and apply for Permanent Residence with that experience if they wish to. The education system in Canada prioritizes innovation, critical thinking, and practical skill development through diverse program options like co-op programs among others. This equips immigrants with the necessary skills to compete in today’s global economy.
4. Accessible Pathway to Citizenship
Canada provides several pathways for immigrants to immigrate and become citizens in the long run. Some of these pathways are; Family Sponsorship, economic programs like the Express Entry and the Provincial Nominee Programs, the Atlantic Immigration Program, study route, and work permit, among other options. These different pathways show that Canada embraces multiculturalism and immigrants, as they allow newcomers to integrate into Canada and become citizens.
We have lots of space for people to come and occupy. In order to expand our agricultural, industrial, and technological base, we need more people to come here.
Dr. Usha George – Professor in the School of Social Work at Toronto Metropolitan University and Former Academic Director of the Toronto Metropolitan Center for Immigration and Settlement
Additionally, Canada’s immigration process is not as complicated as many other countries. As long as you meet the requirements, you have a high chance of getting approved to immigrate. The friendly immigration process and the numerous pathways to citizenship make the Great White North sought after by immigrants.
5. Robust Economy
Canada is highly developed with a strong economy which greatly influences global trade. Economic factors play a significant role in attracting immigrants because of the numerous opportunities that come with it. Canada’s largest industries include Real Estate, mining, and manufacturing.
Canada is one of the most impressive countries in the world
Barack Obama
There are other diverse range of industries as well like technology, healthcare, and finance. This allows for abundant job opportunities, competitive wages, and social benefits for skilled workers and professionals. Canada’s robust economy as well as the opportunities that come along with it gives immigrants some assurance that they can secure employment and build a life for themself and their dependants (if applicable).
6. Multicultural Society
Canada wants your diversity, traditions, foods, clothing, religion, lifestyle choices, and all the uniqueness you come along with. It’s a renowned multicultural country that respects immigrants of all races and ethnicities. Because of this diversity, Canada does not particularly identify with a national culture. This means that whatever country or culture you identify with, there is every tendency that there are communities you can easily integrate into in Canada. The familiarity and support networks in existing communities aid in the seamless adaptation of an immigrant, ensuring that you settle in quickly.
In Canada, our diversity is our strength. Our social, political, economuc and cultural progress is not made in spite of our differences, but thanks to our differences. I am very proud to see our government support the establishment of a Canadian institute of people of African Decent.
The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclose, Minister of Public Services and Procurement
In Canada, diversity is prioritized and embraced, making Canada sought after by many immigrants. In 1982, the multicultural heritage of Canada was recognized in the constitution with the adoption of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter).
Disadvantages of Migrating to Canada
While Canada is the top choice of many immigrants, there are also cons of immigrating to Canada. For instance, the high cost of living in cities like Toronto and Vancouver may not be affordable for the average person. Also, some regions in Canada experience long winter seasons which may be hard to adjust to. Provinces like Alberta experience cold temperatures up to -35 degrees Celsius.
Someone migrating from a predominantly temperate region like Nigeria (Africa) may find it challenging to adapt to such cold conditions. However, despite these disadvantages, Canada remains a top choice for many immigrants because the good outweighs the bad significantly.
Should I Move to Canada or USA
Canada and the US are both amazing countries that attract lots of immigrants however, the choice of which to move to depends on the individual circumstance. Many prefer the US because of the career opportunities available, however, when it comes to the cost of living, Canada is more affordable on average. According to a source, the cost of living in Canada is $2,062 while that of the U.S. is $2,441. Additionally, Canada seems to have an easier and more accessible pathway to citizenship compared to the U.S.
Factors you may need to consider when making this decision are career opportunities, the immigration process, and the cost of living. This will help you determine which of the countries align with your goals and preferences.
To wrap things up, Canada is a very appealing country to immigrate to and the reasons are not far-fetched. From its healthcare system and accessible citizenship pathways to its Education system and career opportunities. Canada offers immigrants seeking a new beginning a fresh start, and a better quality of life making it one of the most sought-after countries by immigrants worldwide. If you’re looking to make this move soon, you can learn all about the requirements for traveling to Canada in 2024
