While Atlantic Canada has welcomed more immigrants than ever before in recent years, a silent concern continues to grow—immigrant retention. Most newcomers leave within a year or two. Despite successful attraction efforts through immigration programs like the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), the region struggles to make newcomers stay. This issue isn’t new, but it’s urgent. With Canada’s aging population and ongoing labour shortages, especially in the Maritimes, retaining immigrants is no longer optional; it’s a must.
Why Do Immigrants Leave Atlantic Canada So Soon?
An important question with a fairly simple answer: limited opportunities and low wages. According to a recent report, the three-year retention rate for immigrants in Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) was just 43% in 2021. That’s an improvement from 33.3% in 2017, but still the lowest in the country.
Many newcomers initially arrive in P.E.I., New Brunswick, or Nova Scotia with big dreams. But the reality often doesn’t match expectations.
“We’ve focused too much on filling low-wage roles that Canadians avoid,” says Herb Emery, a regional economist in New Brunswick. “When these immigrants aim to grow professionally, they leave for better options in provinces like Ontario.”
What Needs to Change?
To retain immigrants, Atlantic Canada needs to offer more than just a first job. Here’s what experts believe could make a difference:
1. Better Economic Opportunities
- Increase access to skilled and professional-level jobs
- Attract industries that can offer higher wages and long-term growth
- Move beyond seasonal and labour-intensive sectors
2. Recognition of International Credentials
- Help immigrants get their degrees and experience recognized
- Create fast-track pathways for skilled professionals (e.g., doctors, engineers, teachers)
3. Incentives for Long-Term Stay
- Offer tax credits or benefits for staying in the region 5+ years
- Support pathways for international students to transition to PR and jobs locally
Atlantic Canada Immigration Needs More than Numbers
The issue isn’t just how many people arrive—it’s about how many stay. During the pandemic, there was little control over the flow of immigrants. Many were placed in short-term roles with no growth. Without support systems or career progression, immigrants began to leave. The trend is still continuing today.
Here’s a quick comparison to understand better:
| Province | 3-Year Retention Rate (2021) | Primary Reason for Exit |
| Prince Edward Island | 43% | Low wages, limited career growth |
| New Brunswick | ~55% (estimated) | Lack of credential recognition |
| Nova Scotia | ~60% (estimated) | Few high-income job opportunities |
| Ontario | 85%+ | More diverse, professional job market |
A Risky Economic Gamble Ahead?
Some have proposed dropping interprovincial trade barriers to help create more economic flow across provinces. But this may backfire for smaller regions like Atlantic Canada. “Larger provinces like Ontario already attract businesses naturally,” says Emery. “Without protective policies, smaller provinces might lose the few industries they have left.”
This could worsen the situation, leaving the Atlantic provinces with only the healthcare and education sectors, and no major job creators to support a growing immigrant population.
Can a New Immigration Minister Make a Difference?
Canada’s newly appointed Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab hails from Nova Scotia. Her local roots bring hope that Atlantic Canada immigration issues will finally get the attention they deserve. If Diab can push for better wages, professional job access, and targeted retention policies, we may start seeing real change.
Will Atlantic Canada Hold Onto Its Newcomers?
For Atlantic Canada to build a thriving, diverse future, retaining immigrants is just as crucial as attracting them. That means shifting from short-term labour fixes to long-term growth strategies. Atlantic Canada immigration success depends on better jobs, stronger support systems, and smart policy changes. If done right, the region can not only stop the outflow but also become a hub of opportunity for thousands of new Canadians.
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