7 top countries of origin of new Canadians

Between 2004 and 2013, based on records available from Citizenship and Immigration Canada, more than a million people came to Canada to seek a new life. But where did they come from? This question can offer insight into cultural understanding of the origins of several new Canadians as well how communities can connect. Here is a list of the top countries people emigrated to establish their home in Canada.

1. PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

People’s Republic of China

The most populous country in the world has also given Canada the largest chunk of our new citizens. In the last decade measured 2004 to 2013, 326,067 Chinese people became permanent residents and/or citizens of Canada.

2. INDIA

The second most populous country in the world also takes the second place for the source of new Canadians. Between 2004 to 2013, 310,513 Indians became Canadians.

3. PHILIPPINES

From the tropical island nation that is the Philippines to second-largest – mostly frigid – country that is Canada, 263,076 took the leap across the Pacific to find better opportunities for themselves and their families. Goes to show weather isn’t a vital aspect when choosing to build a new life.

4. PAKISTAN

Suffering from overpopulation, corruption, poverty, illiteracy and terrorism, many Pakistanis have fled the country seeking safety and security. In the past decade, 105,283 Pakistanis made Canada their home.

5. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Some of our neighbours down south don’t mind the cold weather as 85,848 Americans settled in Canada in the last decade. The two North American countries share the longest land border in the world as well as similar economic and cultural elements so it’s difficult to pinpoint immigration motives. Must be the free health care!

6. UNITED KINGDOM

It seems the British are still crossing the pond to settle in the colonies. In the last decade, 74,951 British nationals settled in Canada. With a common heritage and common language, Canada seems like a comfortable choice.

7. IRAN

The Islamic Republic of Iran doesn’t quite offer the most individual freedoms in the world and recent sanctions have forced a lot of economic hardship on citizens. Between 2004 to 2013, 73,474 Iranians settled in Canada, while in 2012 the federal government closed its Canadian embassy in Tehran.

Source: http://www.insidetoronto.com/news-story/5597423-7-top-countries-of-origin-of-new-canadians/