A new data visualization tool from Statistics Canada offers fresh insight into the income and financial outcomes of immigrants living in Canada.
Launched on July 7, the tool allows users to filter both average and median income levels based on a variety of factors, including immigration status. The latest reference year available for the tool is 2021.
How Much Are Immigrants in Canada Making?
According to the data tool, the average employment income in 2021 for immigrants was CAD $49,160. This figure encompasses income from salaries, wages, tips, commissions, and self-employment for individuals aged 15 years and older. The median employment income for immigrants stood at $36,800, illustrating that half of the immigrant population earns above this amount while the other half earns below it.
Average Income by Immigration Status
| Immigration Status | Average Income (in 2021) |
| Non-permanent residents (includes those on work or study permits, or those who have claimed refugee status) | $32,080 |
| Immigrants who were admitted to Canada in the last 10 years (from 2021) | $42,320 |
| Immigrants who were admitted to Canada more than 10 years ago | $52,050 |
For context, the average income of non-immigrants in 2021 was $51,400.
How Education Impacts Immigrant Earnings
The data visualization tool also allows users to filter based on educational qualifications. Here’s a breakdown of average incomes by education level for immigrants in 2021:
| Educational Qualification | Average Income (in 2021) |
| No certificate diploma or degree | $27,400 |
| Secondary school diploma or equivalency certificate | $32,920 |
| Post-secondary certificate, diploma, or degree | $56,800 |
| Post-secondary certificate or diploma below bachelor level | $42,920 |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | $65,200 |
Other Factors Influencing Newcomer Earnings in Canada
Several attributes and conditions can significantly impact the earnings of newcomers in Canada. Research from Statistics Canada in 2022 highlighted a few key factors affecting long-term earnings:
- Pre-landing Canadian work experience: Those who have prior work experience in Canada typically secure better-paying jobs.
- Age at landing: Younger immigrants can earn as much as 44% more than older immigrants, even a decade after arriving in Canada.
- Official language proficiency: Fluency in English or French often correlates with higher income levels.
In general, immigrants with higher educational qualifications, strong language skills, and relevant Canadian work experience tend to perform better in the job market.
