Introduction: Canada's population is increasingly diverse, with a significant proportion composed of non-permanent residents (NPRs) who contribute to the country's social and economic fabric. A recent study by Statistics Canada sheds light on the characteristics and trends among NPRs based on data from the 2021 Census.
Overview of Non-Permanent Residents: According to the study, Canada was home to nearly 1 million NPRs in 2021, representing 2.5% of the total population. NPRs include temporary foreign workers, international students, and asylum seekers, each residing in Canada temporarily under specific permits or statuses.
Composition of NPRs: The majority of NPRs (40.1%) held work permits exclusively, while 14.2% possessed both work and study permits. Additionally, 21.9% were solely international students with study permits, and 15.1% were asylum seekers. The remaining NPRs comprised various categories, including temporary resident permit holders and family members of NPRs.
Demographic Characteristics: NPRs in Canada are predominantly young adults, with 60% falling within the 20 to 34 age group. This demographic trend is attributed to the prevalence of work and study permits among individuals aged 20 to 34 years.
Top Countries of Birth: India and China emerge as the leading birth countries among NPRs, collectively accounting for a significant proportion of this population. The study highlights variations in birth countries across provinces, underscoring the diverse origins of NPRs in Canada.
Language Skills and Diversity: Despite their diverse origins, the vast majority (95.3%) of NPRs possess knowledge of an official language, enhancing Canada's linguistic richness. English proficiency is notably high among NPRs, with considerable variation observed within Quebec due to the prominence of French.
Labour Force Participation and Occupation: NPRs exhibit a high labour force participation rate (74.2%), surpassing that of the general population (63.4%). Sales and service occupations are predominant among NPRs aged 15 and over, reflecting their contribution to diverse sectors of Canada's economy. Notably, asylum claimants are engaged in distinct occupational profiles, such as trades, transport, and health occupations.
Education and Employment Challenges: While NPRs often possess higher educational credentials, they are more likely to be underemployed compared to the general population. A significant percentage of NPRs with bachelor's degrees or higher find themselves overqualified for their current positions, highlighting challenges related to skills utilization and employment matching.
Conclusion: The census data on NPRs provides valuable insights into Canada's dynamic demographic landscape and the contributions of temporary residents to its economy. As Canada continues to welcome and integrate NPRs from diverse backgrounds, addressing employment challenges and optimizing skills utilization remain critical for fostering inclusive economic growth and enhancing the overall well-being of temporary residents.
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