Immigration as growth engine
Immigration accounts for 98 % of Canada’s population growth. IRCC targets 485,000 new permanent residents in 2025 and 500,000 in 2026. Yet underemployment among newcomers remains near 20 %, limiting GDP potential.
| Indicator | 2015 | 2024 | 2025 | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Immigration inflow (000s) | 271 | 471 | 485 | IRCC Plan 2025–2027 |
| Underemployment (immigrants, %) | 26 | 21 | 19 | Statistics Canada |
| Foreign-credential recognition rate | 38 % | 45 % | 47 % | ESDC |
Economic leverage
Newcomers add consumption, fill labour shortages, and rejuvenate demographics — but productivity gains require rapid credentialing and workforce integration.
What leaders can do
- Invest in on-boarding pathways. Offer fast-track credential mentorship.
- Adopt inclusive hiring metrics. Track career progression, not just diversity quotas.
- Partner with immigrant entrepreneur hubs. Unlock SME innovation pipelines.
- Leverage remote international talent. Canada’s digital visa regime allows hybrid teams.
Arcus Insight: Belonging is economic infrastructure. Inclusion policies are productivity levers, not HR checkboxes.