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The Role of Immigration in Shaping Canada’s Population in 2024

Austin Campbell

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Canada’s Population

Canada’s population continues to grow, driven primarily by immigration, which plays an essential role in the country’s demographic and economic landscape. By July 1, 2024, the population had reached an estimated 41.29 million, with 250,229 people added in just three months. Although this represents a slower growth rate compared to previous years, it remains much higher than historical averages. In this article, we’ll examine how immigration is fueling Canada’s growth and what it means for the country’s future.

Immigration: The Primary Force Behind Canada’s Population Increase

In the second quarter of 2024, immigration accounted for 96% of Canada’s population growth. Of the 250,229 new residents, 134,138 were new immigrants—an impressive number that sets a record since early 2023. In addition, the influx of non-permanent residents, such as international students and temporary workers, continued to boost Canada’s population.

Although there was a slight drop in the number of study permit holders, the overall population of non-permanent residents still exceeded 3 million by mid-2024. This continued surge in immigration demonstrates that Canada remains a highly attractive destination for people seeking better career prospects, education opportunities, and an improved quality of life.

Regional Population Growth

When looking at population growth by region, Alberta stands out as the fastest-growing province, with a 1.0% increase over the past three months. Alberta’s strong job market and affordable living costs make it appealing to both international migrants and Canadians from other provinces.

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Conversely, the Northwest Territories saw the slowest growth at just 0.1%. While natural births and some immigration helped offset population loss from interprovincial migration, this disparity highlights the uneven nature of growth across Canada’s diverse regions.

Addressing the Aging Population

Like many developed nations, Canada faces the challenge of an aging population. As of July 1, 2024, the median age was 40.3 years, slightly lower than previous years thanks to immigration bringing in younger individuals. While this helps to temporarily slow the aging trend, the effects will not last indefinitely, as low fertility rates persist. In 2023, Canada’s fertility rate hit a record low of 1.26 children per woman.

Immigration is vital to maintaining Canada’s workforce as well. The largest gains in population have been among working-age individuals (15-64 years), who are essential to sustaining the economy. Millennials, in particular, have seen a significant boost due to immigration, with over 1.1 million people joining this generation since 2021. As older generations retire, these new immigrants help to fill critical gaps in the workforce.

Why Immigration Is Crucial for Canada’s Future

Canada’s dependence on immigration stems from its declining birth rates and increasing life expectancy. With fewer babies being born, the natural population growth (births minus deaths) is minimal. In 2024, only 4% of the total population increase was due to natural growth, illustrating the significant role immigration plays in keeping the population from stagnating or shrinking.

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Immigration not only helps sustain population growth but also supports the economy by bringing in skilled workers and addressing labor shortages in key sectors. Additionally, immigrants contribute to the housing market, education system, and other essential services, all of which are vital for a thriving economy.

Looking ahead, immigration will continue to be a cornerstone of Canada’s population and economic strategy. As the country grapples with an aging population and declining fertility rates, the importance of immigration will only grow. Immigrants will play a crucial role in maintaining a vibrant workforce, driving economic innovation, and enriching Canada’s cultural diversity.

However, Canada will face challenges in managing high levels of immigration. The government must ensure that adequate infrastructure, housing, healthcare, and social services are available to accommodate the growing population. Balancing immigration policies to maintain Canada’s appeal as a welcoming country while ensuring the well-being of all residents will be crucial to long-term success.

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