By Chloe Bray

At the Institute for Canadian Citizenship (ICC) we champion immigration that mutually benefits newcomers and Canada. Effective immigration streams are critical to addressing Canada’s economic and labour challenges, supporting both immigrant integration and national prosperity. But the deteriorating Canada-US relationship casts a long shadow over our current approach to immigration and economic growth. Canada is failing to deliver for newcomers, and for its future prosperity. As Canada faces US tariffs, business and policy leaders need to embrace immigrant talent to help tackle these challenges. 

Throughout 2024, as housing, infrastructure and construction labour shortages made headlines daily, Canada admitted only 35 permanent residents (PRs) through its Federal Skilled Trades program. This program encompasses workers categorized as technical trades and transportation; general trades; natural resources and related production; and processing, manufacturing, and utilities. Over the same period, roughly 23,000 temporary foreign workers (TFWs) in the same categories were admitted under the temporary foreign worker program. This uneven distribution of tradespeople across temporary and permanent immigration streams suggests that Canada is not taking the long view on its current challenges. 

Throughout 2024, as housing, infrastructure and construction labour shortages made headlines daily, Canada admitted only 35 permanent residents (PRs) through its Federal Skilled Trades program.

Business leaders also need to step up to better integrate newcomers already in Canada into the labour force. Although Canada’s immigration policies claim to work towards addressing talent shortages in critical sectors, the 2024 Talent to Win report from the ICC and Deloitte demonstrates that immigrant talent remains “vastly underutilized”. Labour shortages “reduced Canada’s GDP potential by $54 billion in 2022.” Several key factors contribute to the underuse of immigrant talent, including poor onboarding, training, and mentoring; DEI gaps; difficulty translating experience and skills; and administration and regulatory compliance. 

RBC indicates that Canada is short 64,000 workers in construction alone, and by 2033, roughly 800,000 workers will retire from the manufacturing, utilities, business, finance and administration, and trades and transportation industries. Demand for labour in these sectors is only going to increase. No matter how you slice the 2024 immigrant admissions data, Canada appears to be falling well short of its current and future needs. 

The first months of 2025 have brought additional challenges. Confronting President Trump’s tariff threats and economic aggression demands an increase in Canadian domestic production. Labour shortages in these critical sectors – or the inability to better integrate the talent that’s already here – will threaten our ability to do so. 

President Trump’s tariffs have united government officials, business leaders, and everyday Canadians against a common threat. Former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has “urged Canadians to rally around the flag and make patriotic choices when buying goods and deciding where to vacation,” while CEOs “are calling for Canada to start building more of its own resource infrastructure to wean itself off the U.S.” This patriotism extends to consumers: Canadians are willing to pay more, drive further, and wait longer for Canadian products. This increased unity and demand for made-in-Canada solutions offers a unique opportunity for the country to strengthen its shields against future economic threats as relations with the United States remain rocky. But without the labour to drive domestic production, how can Canada effectively build its defenses against these threats? 

The natural resource and energy sectors are especially vulnerable to the tariffs. Industry leaders in Canada’s resource sector are assessing the potential impact of the tariffs and exploring options to reduce their reliance on the United States. Business leaders are discussing the possibility of building more mines and pipelines to increase resource production in Canada and shipping it outside the US. In Quebec, there are plans for a significant expansion to Hydro-Québec, including thousands of new wind turbines, 5,000 km of transmission lines, and multi-billion-dollar yearly investments. All these expansion initiatives will require major injections of labour. The Hydro-Québec project alone is estimated to require 55,000 workers by 2033, and “it’s not clear where that staff will come from.” 

The ICC recognizes the immense and often unharnessed potential of newcomers to help solve this problem. Immigrants already contribute to filling critical labour shortages in other sectors. Canada’s healthcare sector is poised to see over 400,000 workers retire in the next 10 years, with existing recruitment challenges making it difficult to fill those roles. Highly skilled immigrants are helping to address this shortage: in 2021, immigrants accounted for 1 in 4 healthcare workers in Canada – and the proportion has likely increased over time. In certain areas, like dental technology, immigrants make up more than 60% of workers. Just as immigrants have filled essential positions in the healthcare system, so too can they support increased domestic production to shield Canada from the threat of American tariffs. But only if Canadians will let them. Immigrants remain overqualified and underemployed, unable to contribute effectively to the Canadian economy. This is especially true for immigrants with degrees in trades, who “face higher overqualification risks than those with STEM qualifications.” 

This is the perfect moment for Canadian business and policy leaders to address the factors preventing immigrants from contributing their full potential and to ensure our immigration policies are prioritizing labour market integration as a key outcome.

Immigration is a strategic tool that can be used to address urgent labour shortages in industries poised to see increased demand. By making better use of skilled immigrants already here and welcoming new talent equipped to strengthen domestic production capacity, business and policy leaders could transform this economic challenge into an opportunity for sustainable growth while reducing Canada’s dependency on our increasingly unpredictable neighbour to the South.  

At the ICC, we know that future Canadians are Canada’s future. But Canadian employers and policy makers need to find ways to source and integrate talent that continues to sit on the sidelines – at significant cost to our global competitiveness and our future prosperity. In addition to making better use of immigrant talent already in the country, Canada’s immigration policies should be better tailored to encourage and accept the skilled tradespeople needed to work in critical industries. As the economic impacts of Trump’s policies begin to hit Canadian consumers, the need for domestic production and diversification away from the US will only intensify. This is the perfect moment for Canadian business and policy leaders to address the factors preventing immigrants from contributing their full potential and to ensure our immigration policies are prioritizing labour market integration as a key outcome. The country’s housing, infrastructure, healthcare and productivity challenges cannot be solved until we do. 

Keywords: immigration, skilled trades, Canadian labour market, temporary foreign workers, domestic production, labour shortages, economic growth, U.S.-Canada relations, tariffs, Canadian economy, newcomers, Canadian workforce, natural resources

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The Brampton Steelheads vs. Kingston Frontenacs game at the CAA Centre – Sports and Entertainment Complex on February 8, 2025, was more than just a thrilling hockey match—it became a historic celebration of new beginnings and national pride. For the second time in league history and the first time in franchise history, the team had the honor of welcoming 50 new Canadian citizens from 15 different countries. These individuals took their oath of citizenship right on the ice, marking a profound and symbolic moment that underscored Canada’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The ceremony in partnership with the Institute for Canadian Citizenship (ICC), an organization dedicated to fostering a deep sense of belonging among newcomers. Through its enhanced citizenship ceremonies, ICC has continuously created impactful experiences that go beyond the formalities of legal status. These ceremonies are enriched with interactive elements such as world map activities—where participants pinpoint their places of origin—guest books filled with heartfelt messages, and storytelling circles that offer a space for new citizens to share their journeys and connect with others.

From coast to coast, ICC has remained at the forefront of initiatives that reinforce the idea that every newcomer belongs in Canada and that their stories matter. This particular event was made even more special by the presence of the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson, co-founder of ICC and former Governor General of Canada. She shared her personal experiences, reflecting on what becoming a Canadian citizen means and emphasizing the significance of inclusion, identity, and shared history.

As the cheers of hockey fans filled the arena, the ceremony stood as a powerful reminder of Canada’s ever-evolving multicultural identity—one where the spirit of sports and citizenship converge to create unforgettable moments of unity and celebration. And a reminder that immigration matters.

To view photos of the Citizenship Ceremony, click here.

With ICC’s Enhanced Citizenship Ceremonies, established Canadians have the ability to connect with new citizens building stronger community relationships. If you are interested in volunteering as a roundtable host at one of our ceremonies, please contact ceremonies@forcitizenship.ca. 

By Adiba Hasan

Based on the most recent data available from October 2024, Permanent Residence (PR) admissions have reached 85% of the 2024 immigration target. In contrast, PR admissions by October 2023 had reached 87% of the annual year’s target.

Citizenship Trends

The graph below compares the number of new citizens between January and October across four different years (2020 – 2024). Overall, citizenship numbers in 2021 were low due to processing delays following the Covid-19 pandemic, but the numbers started to rise again and stabilize in late 2021. Between 2021 and 2022, citizenship numbers experienced a notable jump, an impressive 130% increase, indicating a turning point after significant pandemic-related disruptions.

As pandemic impacts started to fade and application backlogs decreased, the percentage change in the number of new citizens also became smaller with only a 0.88% increase between 2022-2023. Since then, there has been a slight increase of 3.64% between 2023-2024.

Table 1: % Change in Citizenship Acqusition

Citizenship Year	% Change
2023 – 2024	3.64
2022 – 2023	0.88
2021 – 2022	130.92
2020 – 2021	23.59
2019 – 2020	-55.69

Immigration Levels Plan Changes

In October 2024, the Government of Canada released the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, marking a significant shift in the country’s immigration strategy. The plan outlines a significant reduction in permanent resident admissions, with targets set at 395,000 for 2025, followed by further declines to 380,000 in 2026, and 365,000 in 2027.

The graph below illustrates sharp reductions in economic migration (-23%), raising concerns about labour shortages in industries like healthcare and technology. Family reunification (-25%) and refugee admissions (-23%) also face cuts, drawing criticism from advocates about undermining Canada’s values and global commitments.

Share your thoughts

The changes in admissions targets, particularly the reductions in all immigration streams, raise important questions about the values that shape our immigration policies. While the government cites infrastructure and service capacity as reasons for the reductions, the decision has prompted debate about its potential social and economic repercussions.

• Should Canada introduce citizenship target levels to ensure that PR holders are supported and incentivized to obtain Canadian citizenship?
• How much should public opinion influence the government’s immigration levels and policies?

Stay connected with the ICC Immigration Dashboard for ongoing updates and insights. Please share your thoughts and perspectives, and join us in an important discussion on the future of immigration in Canada

Sign up here for more updates from Ideas & Insights at ICC. You can learn more about the ICC here.

Since its inception, Canoo has unlocked Canada for over 789,000 newcomers, providing free admission to museums, galleries, festivals, concerts, and other experiences across the country. For this quarterly Canoo Insights Report, we’re looking at Canoo member growth and engagement in summer 2024.

Canoo Memberships Continue to Increase

Since we published our last Canoo Insights Report in September 2024, Canoo membership has continued to increase. The following graph shows overall Canoo member numbers (adults and accompanying children) and monthly member growth from September to December 2024.

Canoo Member Growth September 1 – November 30, 2024

Canoo Member Growth: 2023 vs. 2024 Peak Season

This edition of the Canoo Insights Report focuses on the summer of 2024, which was the peak season for member activity this year. Let’s start by looking at the growth in Canoo membership (adults + accompanying children) in summer 2023 versus summer 2024.

Compared to the same months in 2023, May 2024 saw a 27% increase in sign-ups, June had a 14% increase, and there was a slight decrease of (-)0.2% in July. With the school year approaching and schedules becoming busier at the end of summer, August and September experienced a dip in Canoo sign-ups. The trend suggests that sign-ups among Canoo members typically align with children’s summer vacation periods.

Canoo Member Growth: Summer 2023 vs. Summer 2024

New Canoo Members by Country of Origin: Summer 2023 vs. Summer 2024

Hidden Gem Venues

This summer, Canoo highlighted four “hidden gem” venues across the country. These venues offer compelling exhibits and family-friendly activities, without the crowds of more popular attractions. The following charts show admission at these hidden gem venues, as well as how often Canoo members visited with children.

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On November 19, 2024, the Institute for Canadian Citizenship hosted an enhanced citizenship ceremony at Hudson in Calgary. This special ceremony celebrated the diverse backgrounds and journeys of 43 individuals from 18 different countries who took a significant step in their lives by officially becoming Canadian citizens.

We were deeply honored to have Dr. Wolfleg share his personal story during the Storytelling Circles. He spoke movingly about his childhood experience at a residential school in Canada and how it profoundly changed the course of his life and impacted Indigenous communities. His story was heartbreaking, yet he spoke with openness and gratitude, reflecting on his personal growth and the transformation he experienced. He concluded with a prayer, blessing the new citizens and everyone in the room as they embark on this meaningful journey together.

Canada’s history includes the injustice that Indigenous people have endured. It’s crucial that we recognize our shared responsibility to learn about this history and to actively participate in the healing process, fostering a stronger sense of community with Indigenous peoples. We acknowledge the incredible resilience and strength Indigenous communities have shown in preserving their languages, traditions, and cultures despite the hardships that Canada has inflicted of them.

To conclude the ceremony, Joy Robinson sang an original song called “Welcome Home” which perfectly captured the essence of the day. Presiding Official Irene Pfeiffer requested that the children in the audience joined Dallas Hayes-Sparks in singing the bilingual version of the national anthem, creating an emotional moment of unity.

Our enhanced citizenship ceremonies focus on fostering meaningful conversations and encouraging individuals to share their personal journeys. This exchange creates valuable opportunities for mutual teaching and learning, enriching the experience for all participants. We celebrate each new citizen and embrace the diverse cultures they bring, strengthening and enriching our nation as a whole.

To view photos of the Citizenship Ceremony, click here. 

With ICC’s Enhanced Citizenship Ceremonies, established Canadians have the ability to connect with new citizens building stronger community relationships. If you are interested in volunteering as a roundtable host at one of our ceremonies, please contact ceremonies@forcitizenship.ca. 

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On November 15th, the McMichael Canadian Art Collection in Toronto hosted a special citizenship ceremony, welcoming 45 new Canadian citizens from 15 different countries. The ceremony, held in the gallery’s stunning setting, highlighted the importance of community, generosity, and the shared values that make Canada a unique and diverse nation.

The event began with our storytelling circles activity, where candidates shared their journeys and stories up to that point. This allowed them to get to know each other better and realize that, despite their different backgrounds, they all shared the same path toward becoming Canadian citizens.

Dr. Verne Ross, an Indigenous representative, spoke about the significance of belonging and the importance of honoring the land and its people. His words resonated deeply, reminding everyone of the shared responsibility we all have in building a strong and inclusive future.

Andy Pringle, Chairman of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, delivered an inspiring speech, emphasizing how philanthropy and community involvement play a central role in supporting the arts and nurturing the spirit of giving in Canada.

The day ended with a moving performance of “O Canada” by Tishani Campbell, setting a tone of pride and unity. Vishal Bedi also graced the stage with a captivating performance, further adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

It was an uplifting day, full of reflection and celebration, as new citizens took their oath and officially joined the Canadian family. Congratulations to all the new citizens, and a heartfelt thank you to those who contribute to Canada’s rich cultural fabric through their support and generosity.

To view photos of the Citizenship Ceremony, click here. 

With ICC’s Enhanced Citizenship Ceremonies, established Canadians have the ability to connect with new citizens building stronger community relationships. If you are interested in volunteering as a roundtable host at one of our ceremonies, please contact ceremonies@forcitizenship.ca. 

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On November 5th, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in Halifax hosted a special event to mark both Veterans’ Week and the citizenship ceremony for 30 new Canadian citizens. The ceremony welcomed individuals from 13 different countries, adding to the vibrant tapestry of Canada’s diverse community.

A highlight of the event was the powerful performance of “O Canada” by Elsy Makhlouf, setting the tone for a day filled with pride and celebration. The event also featured a performance by the talented Каryna Ройк, whose music resonated with all in attendance.

Raymond Sewell, an Indigenous representative, spoke to the importance of community and belonging, reminding everyone of the shared values that unite us all as Canadians.

Kim Reinhardt, General Manager of the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, delivered an inspiring speech, emphasizing the significance of both Canadian citizenship and the contributions of veterans, whose sacrifices have shaped the nation we are today.

It was a day of reflection, celebration, and new beginnings—a reminder of the power of diversity and the strength of community. Congratulations to the new citizens, and thank you to all those who have served our country.

To view photos of the Citizenship Ceremony, click here. 

With ICC’s Enhanced Citizenship Ceremonies, established Canadians have the ability to connect with new citizens building stronger community relationships. If you are interested in volunteering as a roundtable host at one of our ceremonies, please contact ceremonies@forcitizenship.ca. 

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On October 29th, 2024, we had the privilege of hosting a unique citizenship ceremony at the Beaty Biodiversity Museum. 30 candidates from 14 different countries officially became Canadian citizens — all beneath the awe-inspiring skeleton of Canada’s largest blue whale. It was a ceremony unlike any other, set against the backdrop of hundreds of fascinating natural history exhibits.

The Beaty Biodiversity Museum, home to over 500 exhibits, was the perfect setting for this special day. From fossils to plants, shells to insects, the museum offers a glimpse into the incredible diversity of life on Earth — a fitting backdrop for a ceremony celebrating Canada’s own diversity. And of course, the giant blue whale skeleton hanging overhead served as a powerful symbol of how all living things are interconnected.

Quentin Cronk, the Director of the museum, also joined us and shared his thoughts on the importance of the museum to the community. He spoke about the value of the exhibits and how they help us understand the world around us. His words added an extra layer of meaning to the day, reminding us all how precious both our natural world and the Canadian community are.

The ceremony was made even more special by a beautiful performance from Jeff Bryant, who sang the Bilingual National Anthem and the song What a Wonderful World. The latter, with its hopeful message, was the perfect tune for such a joyful occasion.

Judge Carol-Ann Hart, who presided over the ceremony, along with Toko Peters, the clerk, made sure everything went smoothly and warmly congratulated the new citizens as they took their oaths. It was a heartfelt moment for everyone involved.

By the end of the ceremony, the 30 new citizens were officially welcomed into Canada — ready to begin this exciting new chapter of their lives. Standing under the blue whale skeleton, surrounded by history and natural wonders, it was clear that this was more than just a legal process; it was a moment of transformation.

We’re so grateful to have been able to host this citizenship ceremony at the Beaty Biodiversity Museum, a place that represents both the beauty of the natural world and the diversity of the Canadian spirit. We wish all of the new Canadian citizens a life full of success, happiness, and new adventures.

To view photos of the Citizenship Ceremony, click here. 

With ICC’s Enhanced Citizenship Ceremonies, established Canadians have the ability to connect with new citizens building stronger community relationships. If you are interested in volunteering as a roundtable host at one of our ceremonies, please contact ceremonies@forcitizenship.ca. 

Toronto, Ontario, Nov. 7, 2024 – The Institute for Canadian Citizenship (ICC) and Cineplex are partnering to bring the joy of Diwali to newcomers across Canada. From October 31 through November 15, 2024, members of the ICC’s Canoo App can enjoy a free regular Coca-Cola® fountain drink at any Cineplex theatre, simply by redeeming an exclusive offer on the Canoo app. 

This offer is part of the ICC’s commitment to making celebratory moments more accessible to everyone, especially the newcomers that ICC supports. Canoo members benefit from exclusive offers that encourage cultural and social engagement across Canada. With this special Diwali offer, ICC and Cineplex aim to welcome newcomers into the joy of film and celebration, while also offering them a refreshing treat. 

“The ICC is pleased that Cineplex and Coca-Cola are making extra efforts to welcome newcomers to the cinema, via Canoo” said Daniel Bernhard, CEO of the ICC. “Getting out of the house to see a movie in the company of your fellow Canadians is a special occasion for the whole family. These are the little things that make life in Canada more enjoyable. This partnership represents our shared dedication to helping newcomers establish themselves in Canada and feel welcome to participate in Canadian cultural life.” 

“At Cineplex, we’re excited to team up with the Institute for Canadian Citizenship to make the world of cinema more accessible to newcomers across Canada,” said Sara Moore, Chief Marketing Officer at Cineplex Entertainment. “Movies are a universal experience that bring people together. Whether it’s through our international programming or Hollywood titles, we’re thrilled to offer the chance to connect and enjoy a great movie.” 

Starting October 31, Canoo members can claim their digital coupon through the Canoo app, which can be scanned at the concessions counter of any Cineplex theatre nationwide. The promotion is available for the first 10,000 members to redeem. 

For more information about the app and the growing list of benefits for Canoo members, please visit canoo.ca. 

About The ICC 

The ICC is a national charity that aspires to a Canada where immigrants don’t just come, but stay, belong, succeed, and contribute maximally to our shared success. We advance this mission by conducting unique and compelling public policy research, by hosting enhanced citizenship ceremonies across Canada, and via our Canoo Access Pass, an award-winning mobile app that gives new permanent residents and new Canadian citizens with free and discounted access to over 2000 of Canada’s best culture and nature experiences, plus exceptional travel offers and exclusive deals from leading brands.   

About Cineplex 

Cineplex (TSX:CGX) is a top-tier Canadian brand that operates in the Film Entertainment and Content, Amusement and Leisure, and Media sectors. Cineplex offers a unique escape from the everyday to millions of guests through its circuit of 169 movie theatres and location-based entertainment venues. In addition to being Canada’s largest and most innovative film exhibitor, the company operates Canada’s favourite destination for ‘Eats & Entertainment’ (The Rec Room), complexes specially designed for teens and families (Playdium), and an entertainment concept that brings movies, amusement gaming, dining, and live performances together under one roof (Cineplex Junxion). It also operates successful businesses in digital commerce (CineplexStore.com), alternative programming (Cineplex Events), motion picture distribution (Cineplex Pictures), cinema media (Cineplex Media) and digital place-based media (Cineplex Digital Media). Providing even more value for its guests, Cineplex is a partner in Scene+, Canada’s largest entertainment and lifestyle loyalty program.  

Proudly recognized as having one of the country’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures, Cineplex employs over 10,000 people in its offices and venues across Canada. To learn more, visit Cineplex.com. 

Media Contact 

The ICC 
Arash Safavi 
647.607.2971 
media@forcitizenship.ca 

Cineplex Media Relations 
PressRoom@Cineplex.com 

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On October 17, 2024, the Institute for Canadian Citizenship hosted an enhanced citizenship ceremony at the vibrant Cabaret Lion D’Or in Montreal. This special ceremony celebrated the diverse backgrounds and journeys of 46 individuals from 37 different countries who took a significant step in their lives by officially becoming Canadian citizens.

The ceremony was a heartfelt celebration of belonging, marked by touching speeches, vibrant cultural performances, and moments of reflection. It emphasized the profound values of inclusion and community that Canada represents. Family and friends gathered to support their loved ones, creating an atmosphere brimming with warmth and joy.

“I came to Canada in 2020 as a student and did my masters. Yes, we like Canada, and we love the people. We are happy for this opportunity to call Canada home now. Our table shared a lot of similar stories of struggle in coming here including leaving our families behind. in the end it’s a very proud moment for all of us.”

-A candidate shared during the Storytelling Circles

Our Storytelling Circles take place just before candidates take the Oath of Citizenship, providing a meaningful space for individuals to share their stories and cultivate a strong sense of belonging within the community. This gathering fosters connections and celebrates the diverse experiences that enrich our shared identity. Each new citizen’s story resonated with resilience and hope, weaving a rich tapestry of cultures that enhances Canada’s identity. As they recited the Oath of Citizenship, the room was filled with a palpable sense of pride and accomplishment, symbolizing not only their personal journeys but also their commitment to a country that welcomes them with open arms.

Organized by the Institute for Canadian Citizenship, this enhanced ceremony was designed to cultivate a deeper sense of belonging and to celebrate the invaluable contributions of immigrants to our society. It transcended the formalities of the process, transforming into a vibrant celebration of community, diversity, and the shared future of all Canadians. In this moment, every new citizen was reminded that they are not just welcomed, but essential to the fabric of Canada.

To view photos of the Citizenship Ceremony, click here. 

With ICC’s Enhanced Citizenship Ceremonies, established Canadians have the ability to connect with new citizens building stronger community relationships. If you are interested in volunteering as a roundtable host at one of our ceremonies, please contact ceremonies@forcitizenship.ca.