The South Asian population in Canada growth story is remarkable: the community expanded from 669,060 people in 1996 to nearly 2.6 million in 2021, making it the country’s largest racialized group. That growth represents a nearly fourfold increase and now accounts for 7.1% of Canada’s total population. Projections indicate the community could grow to between 4.7 million and 6.5 million by 2041, representing as much as 12.5% of the national population.

This demographic shift has major implications for labour markets, cultural life, education, business, and political representation across provinces.

Where South Asian Canadians Come From and How They Settle

India is the most common country of birth among South Asian Canadians, accounting for about 44% of the group. Other notable origins include Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and diasporic communities from places like Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.

About 60% of South Asians in Canada were born in Southern Asia, while roughly 30% are Canadian-born. The Canadian-born share shows deeper roots and generational integration, with many younger South Asian Canadians pursuing higher education and professional careers.

Education, Work, and Household Trends

South Asian Canadians demonstrate strong educational attainment: nearly 58% of those aged 25-54 have a bachelor’s degree or higher, well above the non-racialized, non-Indigenous population’s 32%. This high education level translates into strong employment rates for men, though women’s participation shows variation by place of birth.

Household structures often include family and multigenerational living arrangements: about 45% live in two-parent families with children, and 20% live in multigenerational households. These patterns support community resilience but also shape housing and service needs.

Economic Impact and Immigration Pathways

Economic immigration has been the dominant pathway for South Asian newcomers, especially in recent decades. Among South Asian immigrants who arrived between 2011 and 2021, roughly 69% were economic immigrants. This trend links directly to labour market contributions in technology, health care, finance, and entrepreneurship.

High representation in STEM and professional occupations positions the community as a major driver of innovation and economic growth. Regional settlement patterns concentrate South Asians in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta, but rapid growth is also visible in mid-size cities across the country.

Social and Cultural Contributions

South Asian Canadians contribute culturally through festivals, businesses, media, and civic engagement. Religious and language diversity within the community, Punjabi, Hindi, Tamil, Urdu, Gujarati, and many others, enrich Canadian multiculturalism. More than 145 distinct ethnic or cultural origins were reported within the South Asian population in the 2021 Census, reflecting deep diversity.

Community networks also play a pivotal role in newcomer settlement, offering social support, mentoring, and connections that help immigrants access jobs and services.

Future Outlook and Policy Implications

Projections suggest rapid continued growth. Policymakers and service providers should anticipate increased demand for:

• Culturally appropriate health and social services
• Diverse education supports and language programs
• Housing policies that consider multigenerational households
• Labour market initiatives addressing gender gaps in employment

Supporting South Asian Canadians’ economic integration, especially for women and newer arrival,s will help maximize the community’s contribution to Canada’s prosperity.

The South Asian population in Canada growth from roughly 669,060 in 1996 to nearly 2.6 million in 2021, demonstrating a transformative demographic shift. With strong education levels, entrepreneurial activity, and deepening roots across generations, the community will remain central to Canada’s social and economic future.

If you are planning immigration, seeking community support, or exploring economic opportunities in Canada, ImmigCanada immigration consulting services and the best RCIC in Canada can help you map pathways and connect with local resources through an experienced immigration consultant in Canada.