Canada’s resilient and robust economy has made a remarkable post-pandemic recovery, especially across rapidly expanding sectors. The country’s high immigration targets are pivotal in sustaining its economic growth momentum. As outlined in the Immigration Levels Plan 2023-2025, Canada plans to welcome 500,000 immigrants annually by 2025, with immigrants constituting nearly 25% of the population of over 39 million.
Immigrants are often poised to bridge gaps in the labor force caused by retirements or the shortage of skilled candidates. Certain sectors are witnessing remarkable growth and demand for skilled workers. These are the fastest growing industries for new Canadians.
Healthcare: As Canadians’ life expectancy increases, so does the demand for medical services. Healthcare workers from abroad are in high demand, with immigrants making up over 35% of physicians, 23% of registered nurses, and 39% of dentists. The healthcare industry faces 143,800 job vacancies, a prominent figure among all sectors.
To facilitate the integration of healthcare workers as permanent residents, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has eased barriers. Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) offer pathways for healthcare workers to immigrate, such as Alberta’s Dedicated Healthcare Pathway and British Columbia’s regular PNP draws.
Agriculture: Canada’s agricultural sector, employing 243,000 Canadians, anticipates a significant number of retirements among farm operators by 2033. This has led to a job vacancy rate exceeding 14,000. To address the skills gap, Canada will welcome 30,000 permanent immigrants in the next decade to sustain farm operations.
The Agri-Food Pilot Program, extended by IRCC, provides avenues for agricultural immigrants. Occupations like retail and industrial butchers, farm supervisors, and food processing laborers are included. Dedicated PNPs further streamline the immigration process for agricultural workers.
Tech: The tech sector is poised for growth, with a $20 billion investment in clean electricity and growth infrastructure projects. The clean technology manufacturing industry offers lucrative opportunities, with compensation exceeding the national average.
The surge in the AI sector further drives demand for tech workers. Canada houses over 1,000 AI and machine learning companies, boasting the 4th global rank for AI competitiveness.
Canada offers programs like the Global Talent Stream under the Temporary Foreign Workers Program to attract tech workers. Provincial Nominee Programs target tech professionals, such as the BC Tech Stream and OINP Tech Draw.
In summary, Canada’s vibrant economy is sustained by high immigration targets and a strategic focus on sectors with burgeoning demand. Healthcare, agriculture, and the tech industry hold promising opportunities for skilled immigrants seeking to contribute to Canada’s growth story as these are the fastest growing industries for new Canadians. As the nation welcomes talent from around the world, its economic resilience is further solidified.
