How Much Do Immigrants Earn in Canada? New Stats Reveal All
How Much Do Immigrants Earn in Canada? New Stats Canada Tool Breaks It Down
- New Statistics Canada tool reveals detailed income data for immigrants
- Average immigrant income in 2021 was $49,160, with a median of $36,800
- Income levels vary widely based on immigration status and length of stay
- Higher levels of education and language skills lead to higher earnings
- Canadian work experience before landing significantly boosts income
- Non-immigrants still earn slightly more on average than immigrants
If you’ve ever wondered how much newcomers to Canada earn compared to long-term residents or non-immigrants, a new interactive tool from Statistics Canada might just give you the insight you’re looking for. Released in July, this data visualization tool lets you explore how average and median incomes differ across various immigrant groups, education levels, and more — all based on 2021 figures.
Let’s walk through what the data says about immigrant incomes in Canada and what factors influence financial success.
Understanding the Basics: Average vs. Median Income
First things first — what’s the difference between average income and median income? The average is simply the total income divided by the number of people, while the median income is the middle point of the income distribution. That means half of people earn more than the median, and half earn less. This is an important distinction, especially when a few high earners can skew the average upward.
What Are Immigrants in Canada Earning?
According to the latest data from the Statistics Canada tool, the average employment income for immigrants in 2021 was $49,160. This includes earnings from wages, salaries, tips, commissions, and self-employment for individuals aged 15 and older.
The median income for immigrants was lower, at $36,800.
Here’s how income varied by immigration status:
| Immigration Status | Average Income (2021) |
|---|---|
| Non-permanent residents (e.g., work/study permit holders, refugee claimants) | $32,080 |
| Immigrants admitted in the last 10 years | $42,320 |
| Immigrants in Canada for over 10 years | $52,050 |
For comparison, non-immigrants in Canada had an average income of $51,400 in 2021 — slightly higher than the overall immigrant average.
How Education Affects Immigrant Incomes
It’s no surprise that education plays a major role in income levels — and that holds true across the board for immigrants in Canada. The more education you have, the more you tend to earn.
Here’s a breakdown of average incomes for immigrants by education level:
| Education Level | Average Income (2021) |
|---|---|
| No certificate, diploma, or degree | $27,400 |
| Secondary school diploma or equivalent | $32,920 |
| Post-secondary certificate or diploma below bachelor’s level | $42,920 |
| Post-secondary certificate, diploma, or degree (any level) | $56,800 |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | $65,200 |
These numbers clearly show that higher education credentials lead to better earnings — especially for those with a bachelor’s degree or higher. If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada and considering upgrading your education, it could be a smart investment.
Other Key Factors Influencing Immigrant Income
Beyond education and immigration status, there are several other factors that play a role in how much newcomers earn in Canada. According to findings from Statistics Canada, the most successful immigrants often share a few common traits:
- Pre-arrival Canadian work experience: Immigrants who worked in Canada before becoming permanent residents tend to earn more after landing.
- Age at landing: Younger immigrants (especially those in their 20s and 30s) have better long-term income prospects — earning up to 44% more than older newcomers 10–11 years after arriving.
- Language proficiency: Strong English or French skills significantly improve job opportunities and income potential.
These insights can be particularly helpful if you’re planning your move to Canada or actively going through the immigration process. For example, applying through programs that value Canadian work experience — like the Manitoba PNP — could help set you up for better long-term success.
Final Thoughts: Knowledge Is Power When Planning Your Move
Whether you’re already in Canada or planning to make the move, understanding how income levels vary based on your background and choices can help you make more informed decisions. From choosing the right immigration program to pursuing additional education or language training, there are many ways to improve your earning potential in Canada.
And remember — while the journey can be challenging, many immigrants go on to build successful, fulfilling lives in Canada. With the right tools and preparation, you can too.
Looking to explore your immigration options? Learn more about how programs like the Manitoba PNP can help you gain permanent residency and build a strong future in Canada.
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