Recent research by Statistics Canada highlights that individuals who immigrate to Canada during childhood are more likely to achieve higher education levels and enjoy superior economic outcomes.
Early Arrival, Better Outcomes
The study utilized the Longitudinal Immigrant Database to trace the long-term data of immigrants who arrived in Canada as children. Findings reveal a clear link: the earlier immigrants settle in Canada, the higher their likelihood of pursuing post-secondary education.
For instance, about 77.3% of immigrants who settled in Canada at age 4 engaged in post-secondary education by age 20. This percentage remains high for those who arrived between ages 5 to 9, at 69.9%, and for those between ages 10 to 14, at 61.3%. In contrast, only 59.9% of all Canadian tax filers participated in post-secondary education by the age of 20, which indicates that young immigrants are significantly more likely to seek higher education compared to their Canadian-born counterparts.
Economic Advantages Manifest Over Time
While the study reveals that young immigrants initially earn slightly less than the average Canadian tax filer between ages 18 to 24, the situation markedly improves as they age. By 25, their median wages catch up to or exceed those of their Canadian peers. By 30, immigrants who were admitted as children earn a median wage 17.6% higher than that of all other Canadian tax filers in the same age group.
Analyzing the Implications
These findings underscore the positive impact that early arrival to Canada has on educational pursuits and labor market outcomes. Immigrants who are admitted at a younger age tend to outperform not only those who arrive later but also outpace the general Canadian population. This suggests that earlier integration into the Canadian education system and labor market may provide these immigrants with distinct advantages. However, the study calls for further research to fully understand the dynamics behind these outcomes.
Further Evidence and Policy Implications
This research adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting a robust correlation between the age at immigration and successful economic assimilation in Canada. Notably, this pattern strengthens over time, suggesting that policies favoring younger immigrants could have long-term benefits for both the individuals and the broader Canadian economy.
Moreover, the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) already recognizes the advantages of youth, giving younger newcomers a scoring advantage. This study’s findings provide empirical support for such policies, highlighting the potential for younger immigrants to contribute effectively to the Canadian economy.
Welcoming young immigrants not only facilitates their personal success but also enriches the Canadian society and economy. As Canada continues to refine its immigration policies, incorporating insights from such studies could enhance the efficacy of its immigration system, ensuring it benefits both newcomers and the country.
