The pace of population growth in Canada has continued to break records, primarily due to the influx of temporary residents, particularly through international student and temporary foreign worker programs. During the third quarter, Canada’s population surged by more than 430,000 individuals, representing the fastest growth rate seen in any quarter since 1957. Statistics Canada’s population estimates as of October 1st put the total population at over 40.5 million.
The data revealed that the population growth in the first nine months of 2023 has already exceeded the total growth seen in any previous full year, including the record established in 2022. This growth has been significantly fueled by international migration, with approximately 313,000 non-permanent residents arriving in the country over the span of three months. According to Statistics Canada, the majority of these non-permanent residents were individuals holding work and study permits, with a smaller proportion consisting of refugee claimants.
The significant increase in Canada’s population of non-permanent residents (NPRs) in 2023 is a notable development, as indicated by Statistics Canada’s report. The population of NPRs surged by more than half a million people, marking the most substantial single-year rise in at least five decades of available data.
Overall, this significant increase in Non-permanent residents (NPRs) in 2023 reflects changes in immigration policies, travel restrictions, and processing of permits amid the ongoing recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the continuous efforts to update and refine statistical methodologies for population estimation.
NPRs, such as international students, temporary workers, and individuals on temporary visas or permits, have been contributing significantly to this surge in migration. Factors such as Canada’s welcoming immigration policies, diverse job opportunities, quality education system, and high standard of living have attracted individuals from around the world.
The country’s immigration policies have been designed to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and students, aiming to boost its economy and address labor market needs. Additionally, Canada’s efforts to provide pathways to permanent residency for certain categories of non-permanent residents have also contributed to the increasing numbers.
We look forward to 2024 as Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) plans on more robust immigration programs for everyone interested in coming to this beautiful country.