Quebec shines in immigrant retention, Atlantic Canada struggles
Immigrants are increasingly settling in Quebec, according to a new Statistics Canada report.
However, the Atlantic region continues to lose newcomers to other parts of the country.
Quebec has succeeded in retaining immigrants, with 94 per cent of 2021 newcomers staying after a year. It is a significant 8.8 per cent rise since 2018.
The report attributes this to job opportunities, social programs, and Quebec’s control over its economic immigration stream.
However, challenges remain as changes in political climate and immigration policies could affect future trends.
Ontario leads retention rates at 94.6 per cent followed by British Columbia at 91.7 per cent and Alberta at 89.5 per cent
Meanwhile, Atlantic Canada faces retention struggles.
Newfoundland and Labrador saw a 14.1 per cent drop, with similar declines in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick.
Experts cite limited job opportunities, lack of community support, and challenges in integrating newcomers as key factors.
Economists stress Atlantic Canada’s urgent need for immigrants to address its aging population and labour shortages.
Stronger job markets and community integration could reverse the trend, ensuring economic stability in the region.