What newcomers think about Canada’s immigration challenge

As we kick off a new year and gear up for a federal election, important issues like affordability, housing, health care, and the threat of U.S. tariffs will undoubtedly take center stage in the political arena. Immigration, in particular, is expected to be a hot topic both in Canada and south of the border in 2025, with shifting attitudes among Canadians towards newcomers.

Recent polls indicate that while the majority of Canadians still view immigration positively, there are growing concerns about the number of immigrants entering the country and the strain it puts on housing, healthcare, and the economy. To address these concerns, the federal government has implemented measures to limit the influx of new arrivals, citing the need to balance population growth with infrastructure development and prevent abuse of the immigration system.

Despite the heated debates and policy changes, one crucial perspective has been missing from the conversation: that of the immigrants themselves. In an effort to give a voice to recent newcomers, CBC News partnered with Pollara Strategic Insights to conduct a survey of 1,500 individuals who have arrived in Canada within the past decade. The results of the survey shed light on the challenges and experiences of newcomers in their adopted country.

The survey revealed that newcomer sentiments align with those of the wider Canadian population in many respects. Concerns about the economy, housing affordability, and healthcare were common among both newcomers and long-time residents. Many newcomers expressed frustration over underemployment and the underutilization of their skills in a country facing a shortage of qualified professionals in various fields.

One of the most significant findings of the survey was the high cost associated with immigrating to Canada, with many respondents citing this as a barrier to recommending Canada to family and friends. Despite these challenges, the majority of newcomers expressed satisfaction with their decision to come to Canada, citing the country’s welcoming and safe environment as a major factor in their happiness.

In response to the survey findings, CBC News has launched a series titled “Welcome to Canada,” featuring in-depth personal stories of underemployed newcomers, undocumented migrants, and unsettled new Canadians. The goal of this series is to spark a national conversation about the experiences and challenges faced by immigrants in Canada.

As we navigate the complexities of immigration policy and integration, it is essential to listen to the voices of newcomers and understand their perspectives. By sharing their stories and experiences, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and welcoming society for all who call Canada home.