The trend of immigration to Canada from India has reached unprecedented heights in recent years. With record numbers of Indian immigrants making Canada their new home, this trend shows no signs of slowing down. In this blog, we’ll explore the factors behind this surge, the latest statistics, and what this means for future immigrants.
Record Numbers of New Permanent Residents
In recent years, the number of Indians who immigrate to Canada from India has seen a significant increase. For instance, new Indian permanent residents (PRs) surged from 39,340 in 2015 to an astounding 139,785 in 2023. The trend continues in 2024, with 51,450 Indians becoming PRs in the first four months alone, matching the total annual admissions in 2017.
Top Source Countries for Canadian Immigration
India has overtaken other countries, such as the Philippines and China, to become the leading source of new permanent residents in Canada. The data below highlights this dramatic shift:
| Country | 2024 Jan-Apr | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 |
| India | 51,450 | 139,785 | 118,250 | 127,940 | 42,870 | 85,590 | 69,985 | 51,590 | 39,710 | 39,340 |
| Philippines | 11,130 | 26,965 | 22,095 | 18,020 | 10,975 | 27,820 | 35,050 | 40,905 | 41,850 | 50,840 |
| China, PR | 10,555 | 31,780 | 31,845 | 31,010 | 16,525 | 30,245 | 29,710 | 30,250 | 26,785 | 19,460 |
Why Indians Choose Canada
Talent-Focused Policies
Canada’s immigration policies are designed to attract highly skilled professionals. Programs such as the Express Entry system and Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) make it easier for skilled workers and students to gain permanent residency.
Educational Opportunities
Canadian universities and colleges are becoming increasingly popular among Indian students. The Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa program and recent changes to language proficiency requirements have simplified the process for obtaining student visas.
Career Prospects
Many Indian professionals possess strong career backgrounds that align with Canada’s evolving immigration criteria. The recent reforms in the Express Entry system, which have raised the CRS score cutoffs, highlight the importance of higher education, skilled experience, and language proficiency. As a result, Indian candidates make up 43% of those invited in these high-score Express Entry draws in 2024 so far.
The record-high immigration to Canada from India reflects the effectiveness of Canada’s immigration policies and its appeal as a destination for skilled professionals and students. With a supportive environment and clear pathways to permanent residency, Canada remains a top choice for Indians seeking new opportunities abroad.
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