Canada has achieved a historic milestone in 2024, welcoming a record-breaking 483,395 new permanent residents (PRs). This impressive figure nearly meets the ambitious annual immigration target of 485,000, reflecting Canada’s robust immigration framework and its role in supporting economic growth and demographic stability.
This article explores the key trends, top source countries, provincial distributions, and monthly admission patterns shaping Canada’s dynamic immigration landscape in 2024.
Yearly Growth and Immigration Targets
Canada’s immigration numbers have consistently grown since 2015, with occasional fluctuations due to global events like the COVID-19 pandemic. The trend highlights Canada’s strategic reliance on immigration to boost its population and labor force.
| Year | Permanent Residents Admitted | Official Immigration Target |
| 2024 | 483,395 | 485,000 |
| 2023 | 471,820 | 465,000 |
| 2022 | 437,630 | 431,645 |
| 2021 | 406,055 | 401,000 |
| 2020 | 184,600 | 341,000 |
The steady rise in immigration targets, even amidst global challenges, illustrates Canada’s proactive approach to addressing workforce demands and demographic shifts.
The monthly distribution of new PRs in 2024 reveals notable fluctuations:
| Month | Permanent Residents Admitted |
| January | 47,765 |
| February | 39,105 |
| March | 34,870 |
| April | 42,605 |
| May | 46,850 |
| June | 44,700 |
| July | 47,870 |
| August | 39,255 |
| September | 37,140 |
| October | 34,475 |
| November | 36,900 |
| December | 31,860 |
Peaks in January, May, and July suggest seasonal immigration trends, possibly influenced by favorable travel conditions and IRCC’s processing efficiency. The dip towards the year’s end aligns with administrative slowdowns during the holiday seasons.
Top 10 Source Countries
In 2024, India remains the top source country, although its numbers dipped slightly from 2023. Notably, Cameroon experienced an 81.43% surge, possibly due to targeted programs or increased awareness of Canadian immigration pathways.
| Country | 2024 PRs | 2023 PRs | Year-on-Year Change |
| India | 127,320 | 139,790 | -8.92% |
| Philippines | 32,300 | 26,965 | 19.78% |
| China | 29,950 | 31,785 | -5.77% |
| Cameroon | 21,200 | 11,685 | 81.43% |
| Nigeria | 20,380 | 17,465 | 16.69% |
| Eritrea | 16,585 | 10,680 | 55.29% |
| Afghanistan | 12,280 | 20,180 | -39.15% |
| Pakistan | 11,940 | 11,860 | 0.67% |
| Iran | 11,150 | 10,680 | 4.40% |
| France | 9,940 | 10,075 | -1.34% |
Provincial Distribution: Where Newcomers Are Settling
Immigration growth was notable across Canada’s provinces, with New Brunswick leading in percentage growth at 35.17%. Alberta and Quebec also experienced significant increases, driven by economic opportunities and tailored immigration initiatives.
| Province | 2024 PRs | 2023 PRs | Year-on-Year Change |
| Ontario | 205,700 | 206,820 | -0.54% |
| Alberta | 66,350 | 57,595 | 15.20% |
| British Columbia | 63,105 | 70,825 | -10.90% |
| Quebec | 59,425 | 52,810 | 12.53% |
| New Brunswick | 15,490 | 11,460 | 35.17% |
| Nova Scotia | 14,285 | 11,805 | 21.01% |
A Record Year Reflecting Canada’s Immigration Strength
The record-setting 483,395 new permanent residents in 2024 highlights Canada’s strong immigration framework and its critical role in economic development. As the country continues to evolve its immigration policies, these trends underscore the importance of immigration in shaping Canada’s future. With its welcoming stance and strategic policies, Canada remains a top destination for immigrants worldwide, reinforcing its commitment to diversity, growth, and prosperity.
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