Lesson 10 — Activity 3:

The Benefits and Impacts of Immigration

Immigration has, historically, had a positive impact on the Canadian economy in terms of job creation, improved labour force, and economic growth that has helped to sustain social programs for Canadians. While the immigration rate has declined sharply from its peak early in the 20th century, Canada is still one of the top countries of the world for accepting immigrants.

Immigration contributes to the diversity of cultures, traditions, and languages that form the social fabric of our society. However, there are also impacts to our country because of immigration. Let's take a closer look at these benefits and impacts.

To what extent does Canada benefit from immigration?

Skilled workers: Immigrants provide Canada with skilled workers from around the world, including doctors, nurses, and engineers.

Future economic growth: Canada needs to select immigrants who are ready, willing, and able to fully integrate into Canada’s labour market and fill gaps in our economy to ensure the future economic growth in our country.

To what extent does immigration impact Canada?

Services: As new permanent residents, immigrants become consumers of Canadian public services, such as health care, education, welfare, and infrastructure. Immigrants and refugees can affect our health care and other services and cost a lot of money to the government.

Remittances: Many immigrants also send money to family in their native country, removing a portion of their income and spending power from the Canadian economy.

Crime: There is the possibility of an increase of crime due to the newcomers to Canada.

Self-check!