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In celebration of Citizenship Week, the ICC hosted an Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony in the nation’s capital at Club SAW where 40 individuals became new Canadian citizens.

The ceremony began with Ashley Clark, who emphasized the importance of honouring Indigenous heritage and initiated fruitful discussions at the roundtables. The event featured distinguished guests who shared their insights. Mary Roman, Executive Director of the Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO), encouraged the new citizens to reflect on their journey to this moment. Member of Parliament Yasir Naqvi also addressed the candidates, speaking about the immigrant experience.

“This is the story of Canada – as of today, all your hard work, all your sacrifices, are part of the Canadian soul. We are better as a country, because of all your sacrifices. Thank you for choosing Canada. Thank you for making Canada such an incredible country.”

– Yasir Naqvi – Member of Parliament

A highlight of the ceremony was a performance by Orchidae, a queer franco Taiwanese-Canadian artist whose music explores themes of identity and alienation. This was followed by a stirring rendition of the bilingual national anthem by Jessie Simmons.

The heartfelt speeches, engaging discussions, and inspiring performances created an atmosphere of unity and pride, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry that defines Canada. As these new citizens embark on their next chapter, they carry with them the values of inclusivity, perseverance, and community that were so eloquently celebrated throughout the ceremony.

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

In this monthly update, the ICC Immigration Dashboard indicates a drop in PR admissions in 2024 by 16% compared to the same period in 2023. By March 2023, PR admissions had reached 31% of the immigration target levels, with 145,495 new PRs. By comparison, in March 2024 PR admissions hit 25% of the annual immigration target, with 121,610 new PRs.

In 2023, PR admissions declined gradually in the early months of the New Year, with 50,945 admitted in January, 49,670 in February (-1,275), and 44880 in March (-4,790). PR admissions have experienced a more a dramatic decline over the same period in 2024, with 47,745 admitted in January, 39,090 in February (-8,655), and 34,785 in March (-4,305).

PR Admissions by Province

The chart below reflects the impact of the decline in PR admissions across provinces. Overall, most provinces experienced a decrease in PR admissions in 2024 compared to 2023 between January and March. However, with the exception of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Atlantic provinces experienced a slight uptick in PR admissions, with New Brunswick seeing a 35% increase in the PRs admitted compared to the same period in 2023.

The ICC immigration dashboard shows that Manitoba (-36%), Newfoundland and Labrador (-31%), British Columbia (-28%), and Saskatchewan (-24%) saw the sharpest decline in PR admissions. It is worth noting that these provinces are also facing challenges retaining immigrants.

Province Snapshot: New Brunswick

According to a Statistics Canada report, immigrant retention over 5 years has increased in New Brunswick in recent years. With the Canadian government’s commitment to strengthening francophone communities, New Brunswick has been a focal point in establishing initiatives to bolster francophones outside of Quebec as it is Canada’s only officially bilingual province.

In 2023, New Brunswick experienced record population growth with the province admitting “33,000 arrivals from other countries between July 2021 and July 2023”. The province is also experiencing significant economic growth, ending the fiscal year on March 31, 2023 with a budget surplus of $1.01 billion, which some attribute to the arrival of newcomers. As such, the city of Moncton, which houses 21% of the province’s population, has implemented an Urban Growth Strategy that serves as a directive for managing housing and employment plans for the city over the next 25 years.

According to the ICC Immigration Dashboard, New Brunswick welcomed 44,495 new permanent residents since 2018. The diagram below indicates the streams through which immigrants have been admitted, with the Provincial Nominee Program admitting the most PRs in 2022 and 2023.

What do you think?

• Given that Ontario attracts the most number of immigrants, how does adjusting immigration levels on a federal level impact provinces that have a demand for immigrants?
• What else can provinces outside of Ontario do to retain immigrants?

Stay informed about the latest immigration trends with the ICC’s immigration dashboard. Interested in following us? Please sign up here for more updates from Ideas & Insights at ICC. You can learn more about the ICC here. 

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Last week marked Citizenship Week, a time to celebrate the vibrant tapestry of Canadian identity! To commemorate this occasion, on May 14, 2024, we hosted an extraordinary Enhanced Citizenship ceremony at the Halifax Central Library in Halifax, where 48 individuals from 13 different nations embraced their new status as Canadian citizens.

In a world filled with milestones and moments that shape our identities, few are as significant as becoming a citizen of a new country. However, what made this ceremony truly remarkable was not just the presence of the candidates who embraced their Canadian citizenship but also the venue itself—the Halifax Central Library.

Libraries are often seen as sanctuaries of knowledge and symbols of community. They serve as spaces where individuals from all walks of life come together to explore, discover, and connect. But beyond their traditional roles, libraries represent accessibility and inclusivity, making them ideal venues for such significant events. Holding citizenship ceremonies in libraries, therefore, holds a deeper significance than mere convenience—it embodies the very essence of what it means to be a citizen in a diverse and interconnected world.

Halifax, with its unique blend of affordability, quality of life, and diverse opportunities, stands as a beacon of hope and promise for newcomers to Canada. It is a city that embraces its cultural mosaic and celebrates the contributions of individuals from all corners of the globe. So, it comes as no surprise that the Halifax Central Library was chosen as the venue for this momentous occasion.

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.

Today the ICC is publishing new research exploring immigrants’ perceptions of Canadian citizenship.

Our analysis combines survey and interview data from newcomers participating in the Canoo Access Pass who shared their perspectives on Canadian citizenship and the various factors that influence their views on whether to naturalize.

To read the full report, click here.

While a majority of the permanent residents (PRs) surveyed express positive views on Canadian citizenship and either intend to apply or have already done so, a significant 21% remain uncertain or reluctant to apply. Through in-depth follow-up interviews with 40 respondents, we found the following factors play a role in shaping newcomers’ views on naturalization:

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On May 9th, 2024, something truly special happened in Edmonton. At The Foundry, forty-two individuals from ten different countries took a significant step in their journey as they officially became Canadian citizens. The ceremony, filled with cultural richness, echoed themes of unity and celebration of identity. 

The Ceremony started with George Desjarlais, a respected indigenous representative, sharing insights into indigenous representation in Edmonton. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity, sparking meaningful conversations among attendees. The Roundtable discussions also proved to be a powerful platform for understanding and dialogue.

The atmosphere was enriched by an incredible performance of the bilingual National Anthem by Ben Spencer. Accompanying him, Subash Giri skillfully played the harmonium, infusing the ceremony with a melodic charm that resonated with the audience.

Troy Davies, CEO of Catholic Social Services, also joined the ceremony and took the opportunity to offer congratulatory remarks to the candidates, recognizing the magnitude of this occasion in their lives. With warmth and sincerity, he applauded their resilience, courage, and commitment to embracing their new Canadian identity.

The ceremony also shed light on Mental Health Week, emphasizing the importance of holistic well-being. This thoughtful inclusion served as a reminder of the support and empowerment available to all. As the ceremony concluded, it left a lasting impression on everyone present. It stood as a testament to the beauty of diversity, the strength of inclusion, and the endless possibilities that arise when individuals unite in celebration.

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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Calgary, Alberta, radiated with cultural vibrancy on May 2, 2024, as the city celebrated Asian Heritage Month at the prestigious Hudson venue. With 71 citizens representing 20 diverse countries, the evening was a testament to unity in diversity. 

Dr. Jeanne Besner presided over the event, while Lowa Beebe, representing Calgary’s Indigenous community, offered an invocation acknowledging the land’s original custodians.

The ceremony kicked off with a soul-stirring rendition of the national anthem by the talented I.Con Twins, setting the stage for a day of celebration and reflection.

Guest speaker Alex Montiel inspired attendees with his message of inclusivity and cultural pride.

The highlight of the evening was Stephen Demaer’s captivating performance, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary music forms to mesmerize the audience.

As the morning unfolded, attendees embraced the opportunity to connect across cultures, forging bonds that transcended borders.

The Asian Heritage Month ceremony at Hudson was more than just an event; it was a testament to the richness of Calgary’s multicultural tapestry and a reminder of the beauty that emerges when communities come together in celebration of their shared heritage.

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.

Version française.

Author
Mojoyin Adigun
Philanthropy Lead

At the heart of every community are the people, and at the heart of every kind gesture, the same principle exists: People Matter. The Institute for Canadian Citizenship (ICC) is proud to profile Debi Brown, a long-time donor to ICC, whose work and generosity are guided by this powerful principle. 

Debi Brown: Advocate for Inclusivity and Connection 

As the CEO and Founder of Clarity Management Group and the author of It’s All in the Delivery, Debi Brown has dedicated her career to enhancing how individuals and organizations succeed by prioritizing human connections. Her philosophy perfectly mirrors the mission of ICC, making her not only a supporter, but a true embodiment of what we stand for. 

“ICC is the brand that makes people feel welcome.”
– Debi Brown

Debi emphasizes how essential it is to make newcomers feel at home as soon as they arrive. Her belief in the importance of making people feel valued and included has fueled her ongoing support for ICC. 

Support Driven by Belief 

Debi’s commitment to ICC is a testament to her belief in the power of community. When reflecting on her decision to continue her contributions, she shares, “Every year we reassess and consider where we want to redirect our support, but at the core, I believe in what ICC is doing. The idea of being a welcoming band for anyone new to Canada aligns with my deep-seated belief that people matter.” 

Debi’s support is shaped by three key principles: 

Paying it Forward: Fostering a culture of generosity and empathy where people help one another creates positive change in the lives of others. “We are blessed with what we do, and I love what I do. If we can pay it forward, that makes me happy,” Debi states.

Belief in the Mission: The ICC’s dedication to newcomers in Canada resonates deeply within the hearts of many. This commitment leads to a supportive environment where newcomers can find solace as they navigate their journey in a new country. 

Legacy and Commitment: Her contributions also serve as a legacy for her children and grandchildren, ensuring their family’s values continue to impact future generations. 

The Joy of Impact 

A recent Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony captured Debi’s attention. She saw a photo of a little girl waving a Canadian flag at the event. “It just really made my day to see what the donation contributes to,” she remarks, highlighting the joy of seeing direct outcomes from her support in ICC events and programming.

Inspire Change with Us 

Debi’s story is a vivid illustration of how individual commitment can create waves of change for newcomers to Canada. Her philosophy that people matter drives us all at ICC to push forward in our efforts to make Canada the most welcoming place for newcomers. 

We are grateful to Debi for her profound impact and unwavering support. 

Donate today and together we can continue to demonstrate that people matter through this sense of community and belonging. 

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Montreal, Quebec, recently hosted a vibrant celebration at the historic Cabaret Lion d’or, marking International Dance Day with a citizenship ceremony. 44 candidates from 22 countries gathered to become Canadian citizens, surrounded by an atmosphere of unity and diversity. 

During the ceremony, indigenous representative Nina Segalewitz honored the ceremony’s theme with a traditional Indigenous song, reminding everyone of the enduring presence and contributions of Indigenous peoples to Canada’s rich cultural tapestry. 

Pierre Des Marais, the Artistic and General Director of Danse Danse, warmly welcomed the new Canadian citizens, emphasizing the strength found in embracing diversity and forging connections across cultures. 

Continuing the theme, Baila conmigo dance group electrified the stage with two captivating performances, showcasing the universal language of dance that transcends borders and languages. Their vibrant choreography brought people from different backgrounds together in a shared moment of joy and celebration. 

Each of the three invited guests approached the ceremony with deep reverence, infusing it with meaning and significance through their performances and words. Together, they highlighted the importance of embracing diversity and celebrating the shared values that unite us as Canadians. 

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.

Version française. 

Imagine standing in The Rooms, surrounded by the rich history and stunning views of St. John’s, Newfoundland. April 24th was an extraordinary day; a day where 50 individuals from 26 different countries gathered to embark on an unforgettable journey together.

Welcome to our enhanced citizenship ceremony at The Rooms, where tradition met innovation to create a truly unique experience. This wasn’t a typical ceremony; it was a vibrant celebration of Sikh culture, showcasing the diverse tapestry of traditions, values, and contributions that enriched our nation.

As each candidate stepped forward to receive their citizenship certificate, their faces radiated with pride and gratitude. With each heartfelt word of the Oath of Citizenship, they affirmed their commitment to Canada and its values, their voices resounding with determination.

Amidst the applause and cheers from loved ones, there was an undeniable sense of unity and belonging. This ceremony wasn’t just about looking back; it was about embracing the future—a future where diversity isn’t just tolerated but celebrated.

Here’s to our new citizens, who are starting a new chapter in their lives, while also adding their unique stories and experiences to the fabric of our society. As they became part of our Canadian family, they reminded us of the strength that comes from embracing our differences and standing together as one.

Welcome home, to a place where diversity thrives and unity prevails. Welcome to 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.

By Adiba Hasan

IRCC released the 2024-2026 Immigration Levels Plan in November 2023, setting its PR admissions target at 485,000 in 2024 before levelling at 500,000 for 2025 and 2026. The latest data on the ICC’s Immigration Dashboard indicates that in January and February 2024, IRCC managed to admit 18% of its immigration target, which represents a 3% decline from the same period in 2023.

Increases in immigration following the pandemic have sparked intense debates about the impact of higher levels on a variety of issues such as housing and healthcare. In response, the government seems to be attempting to strike a balance by introducing “soft caps” for immigration groups such as temporary workers and international students, which were previously not subject to limits. While these new limits on temporary residents are established, as well as a levelling off of PR admissions at 500,000 in 2025 and 2026, the precise impact on issues such as housing and healthcare remains to be seen.

The chart below illustrates that while Canada saw a 20% increase in new citizens in the first two months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, permanent resident (PR) admissions saw a 14% decrease over the same period.

Fewer Invitations to Apply (ITAs) and Higher CRS Scores

IRCC issues an Invitation to Apply (ITA) after a candidate successfully submits their PR application through the Express Entry system. Express Entry employs a Comprehensive Ranking System, a point-based system that gives candidates a score of 1,200 points based on their age, education, language proficiency, and work experience among other criteria. IRCC reviews and selects candidates that fit specific economic immigration programs, such as Federal Skilled Workers, Federal Skilled Trades, Canadian Experience Class, and Provincial Nominee Programs.

According to earlier draws in the Express Entry pool, scores for General applications that received an ITA were between 400-500 points, with the lowest CRS score requiring 75 points in post-pandemic 2021. However, the bar was raised in 2024, with successful applicants needing a score of above 500 points to receive an ITA, reflecting one of the many ways the government is trying to tighten immigration selection standards.

Further suggesting a more selective approach to immigration through Express Entry, there’s been a notable decrease of 21% of ITAs issued in 2024. Compared to the first four months of 2023, where IRCC issued 41,059 ITAs, the total ITA issued in 2024 is 32,395.

Navigating the Backlog

IRCC’s backlog tracker indicates that 58% of applications are being processed within the established standard time, with the remaining 42% exceeding service standards.

The graph below illustrates the fluctuations of applications in backlogs. Between June to December 2023, the citizenship backlog decreased by 6% whereas PR application backlogs decreased by 3%. Notably, there was a reduction of 36,800 citizenship applications between June to December 2023, and PR applications decreased by 1,000 while the backlog rate decreased slowly. By contrast, the backlog for temporary resident visas (including study and work permits; TRV) increased by 14% in 2023, even though total application numbers decreased from 1,300,000 in July 2023 to 1,256,600 in December 2023.

The graph below indicates a steady decrease in the percentage of citizenship applications in backlog, but it is also the group with the lowest number of applications when compared to PR and TRV application numbers.

Share Your Thoughts

So far, the data for 2024 show fewer ITA’s being issued and a decrease in PRs being admitted, along with a very slow progress in working through backlogged applications. As we track the changes and continue to provide analysis of the changing immigration trends through the ICC Immigration Dashboard, here are two questions to ponder:

• Should alternative immigration streams be added to an already overwhelmed Express Entry system?
• Will a decrease in immigration levels have the intended impact on housing and healthcare strains, or will new challenges emerge?

Stay informed about the latest immigration trends with the ICC’s immigration dashboard. Interested in following us? Please sign up here for more updates from Ideas & Insights at ICC. You can learn more about the ICC here.