Immigrant Earnings in Canada : What to Expect
A Detailed Look at Income by Status, Education, and More
Income Overview: Immigrants vs. Non-Immigrants
In 2021, immigrants in Canada earned an average employment income of CAD $49,160, while the median income stood at $36,800. These figures include wages, salaries, tips, commissions, and self-employment income for individuals aged 15 and older.
To compare, non-immigrants had a slightly higher average income of $51,400, indicating that while immigrants are not far behind, there is still a noticeable income gap.
Income by Immigration Status
Earnings among immigrants can vary significantly depending on their immigration pathway and how long they’ve lived in Canada. Here’s a breakdown:
| Immigration Status | Average Income (2021) |
|---|---|
| Non-permanent residents (e.g., work/study permit holders, asylum seekers) | $32,080 |
| Immigrants admitted within the last 10 years | $42,320 |
| Immigrants residing in Canada for more than 10 years | $52,050 |
This data illustrates that length of stay in Canada positively impacts earnings, with more established immigrants earning more than those recently admitted.
Education Level and Its Impact on Earnings
Education plays a critical role in determining an immigrant’s earning potential in Canada. According to the 2021 data, the more advanced the education level, the higher the average income:
| Education Level | Average Income (2021) |
|---|---|
| No certificate, diploma, or degree | $27,400 |
| Secondary school diploma or equivalent | $32,920 |
| Postsecondary education (all levels combined) | $56,800 |
| Diploma/certificate below bachelor level | $42,920 |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | $65,200 |
Clearly, a bachelor’s degree or higher significantly boosts earning potential, underlining the importance of academic credentials in the Canadian labor market.
Key Factors That Influence Immigrant Earnings
While immigration status and education are important, other factors also influence income outcomes for newcomers:
1. Canadian Work Experience Before Landing
Immigrants with prior work experience in Canada often transition more smoothly into the labor market and earn more, especially in the long term.
2. Age at Time of Immigration
3. Language Proficiency
Strong skills in English or French are a major asset. Language proficiency is not only important for communication but also for accessing better job opportunities, promotions, and higher salaries.
Conclusion: Earnings Potential Improves Over Time
Are You Planning to Immigrate to Canada?
