95% of Indian Immigrants Remain in Canada After Gaining Citizenship: Report
Updated On
-
Copy link
A recent report by Statistics Canada challenges the assumption that Indian immigrants treat Canada as a temporary stop for a stronger passport. The findings reveal that the vast majority remain actively engaged in Canadian life even after gaining citizenship.
The study analysed tax filing data to assess immigrants’ “active presence”, a key indicator of their ongoing connection to Canada’s economy and society. The study found that 94.6% of Indian immigrants who became Canadian citizens within ten years kept filing taxes afterwards. This reflects a strong commitment to staying involved in Canadian society and its economy.
Interestingly, those who did not opt for Canadian citizenship showed lower long-term engagement; only 65% remained active through tax filings. Even three years after becoming citizens, 93% of Indian immigrants continued to file taxes, showing only a slight dip from the 97.1% naturalisation.
Key Insights from the Study
A closer look at the Statistics Canada study reveals the patterns behind why some immigrants stay in Canada long-term while others eventually leave. From citizenship status to education and country of origin, several factors shape this decision-making process.
- Citizenship Encourages Stability: Among immigrants aged 25-54 who arrived between 2008 to 2012, 93% of those who became citizens remained actively present after ten years, compared to just 67% of non-citizens.
- Improved Retention in Recent Cohorts: For immigrants who arrived between 2003 and 2007, 91% of citizens stayed active compared to only 58% of non-citizens, showing a wider gap than in newer arrivals.
- Country of Origin Matters: Immigrants from the Philippines showed a 97% retention rate, higher than immigrants from the USA or France, where the rate was around 87%.
- Education and Mobility: Highly educated immigrants without citizenship were more likely to leave, likely due to broader global career opportunities.
- Citizenship as a Commitment Marker: The findings dispute the idea of “Canadians of convenience,” showing citizenship is closely linked to long-term presence.
- Naturalisation Timing Impacts Retention: Immigrants who delayed citizenship were more likely to leave post-naturalisation, indicating less initial attachment to Canada.
- Economic Immigration Trends: Skilled immigrants who didn’t seek citizenship were more likely to exit, suggesting a stronger pull from global markets when ties to Canada are weaker.
Also Read: Next Canada Child Benefit Payment to Hit Bank Accounts on June 20
Challenging the “Canadian of Convenience” Myth
The idea that immigrants gain citizenship only for personal gain before leaving is not supported by recent data. Statistics Canada’s findings show that most naturalised immigrants maintain strong economic and social ties to the country in the long term.
- Citizenship Signals Commitment: 93% of immigrants who became citizens were still filing taxes ten years later, indicating long-term involvement in Canadian life.
- Citizenship Less Common Among Inactive Individuals: Only 28% of immigrants who stopped filing taxes held Canadian citizenship.
Quick Read: Canada Introduces 4 New Immigration Reforms for Temporary Residents
Canadian Immigration Made Seamless with GetGIS
The study by Statistics Canada confirms that most Indian immigrants remain in Canada and actively participate in its economy even after citizenship. High tax-filing rates highlight strong, lasting ties to the country. GetGIS makes your Canadian immigration journey smooth and successful, guiding you every step of the way.
Quick Links for Further Reading:
