Immigration is one of the most discussed topics in Canada. People have questions, concerns, and sometimes fears and it’s understandable. Fraud, misuse of the system, and growing pains do exist, and the government is continually making adjustments to improve fairness and integrity.
At the same time, immigration is one of the strongest forces for good in Canada. It keeps our healthcare system running, fills essential jobs, strengthens the economy, and enriches our communities. When done thoughtfully, it benefits everyone and that’s where we hope to play a part.
Why Immigration Makes Canada Stronger
Take healthcare, for example. Many Canadians may not realize just how dependent our system is on newcomers. Immigrants make up 1 in 4 healthcare workers in Canada, including:
- 25% of registered nurses
- 42% of nurse aides and related roles
- 43% of pharmacists
- 37% of physicians
- 45% of dentists
- 61% of dental technologists and related occupations
More than 40% of newcomers working in healthcare between 2016 and 2021 focused on nursing, residential care, and home health services—the areas most affected by labour shortages. Without these contributions, our hospitals and care facilities would struggle to keep up.
Immigrants don’t just fill positions they make Canada stronger, healthier, and more resilient.
Immigration and the Economy
Immigration is also essential for Canada’s economy. As our population ages, there are fewer working-age Canadians to fill available roles. Newcomers help maintain the workforce, ensuring that hospitals, farms, factories, and businesses can continue to operate and grow.
Beyond filling jobs, immigrants create businesses, fuel innovation, and introduce new ideas. From tech startups to small local shops, the entrepreneurial spirit of newcomers strengthens communities, creates opportunities, and drives economic growth.
These contributions aren’t hypothetical they’re measurable. Without newcomers, many sectors would struggle to grow, and Canadians would feel the impact.
Acknowledging Challenges
Of course, immigration isn’t without its challenges. Cases of fraud or misuse can happen, and these incidents can affect public perception. The government has responded with measures designed to strengthen system integrity, including more thorough application verification and enforcement.
Supporting newcomers to navigate the system legally and effectively is one way we contribute to the positive side of immigration. When the process works as it should and in good faith, it benefits everyone.
Addressing Common Myths
Even with evidence of positive contributions, misconceptions linger. Here’s a closer look at some common myths:
- Myth: Immigrants take jobs away from Canadians.
Reality: Newcomers often fill gaps in regions and/or sectors where workers are in short supply, and they help create new opportunities through entrepreneurship. - Myth: Immigration burdens social services.
Reality: Over a lifetime, most immigrants contribute more in taxes than they use in public services, helping to sustain programs like healthcare and pensions. - Myth: Immigration lowers wages.
Reality: Evidence shows that immigration has little to no negative effect on wages and can help businesses grow, benefiting the economy as a whole.
How We Can All Contribute to Make Immigration Work
Immigration works best when communities provide space and support for newcomers to settle in, while allowing relationships and understanding to grow naturally over time. Newcomers often take time to adjust to life in a new country, and Canadians gradually become familiar with different cultures, perspectives, and ways of doing things.
Small interactions, shared experiences, and everyday moments help build understanding. Respect and civility are always expected, and over time, what once seemed unfamiliar can become a comfortable part of community life.
Education and awareness also play a quiet but meaningful role. Learning about the contributions immigrants make whether in healthcare, business, or community life can shift perceptions and foster a sense of shared purpose. Stories, programs, and opportunities for connection help Canadians appreciate the benefits immigration brings without feeling forced or overwhelmed.
When patience, curiosity, and empathy guide our interactions, the positive impact of immigration is experienced naturally, creating stronger, more connected communities for everyone.
The Bigger Picture
Immigration is a balancing act. There are challenges, yes, but the benefits are undeniable:
- Healthcare: Newcomers keep hospitals, clinics, and care facilities running.
- Economy: They fill labour gaps, start businesses, and fuel innovation.
- Community: They enrich culture, diversity, and our shared identity.
When the system works fairly, and both newcomers and Canadians are supported, immigration strengthens the country in tangible and lasting ways.
Canada’s strength and vitality are enriched by immigration. By embracing its positive potential while respecting everyone involved, we can help our communities grow healthier, stronger, and more vibrant.
