Maple News reports that Canadians headed to the polls on September 20, 2021, to elect a new federal government—an event that carries significant implications for immigrant communities across the country.
Canada has one of the highest citizenship conversion rates globally, with approximately 85% of immigrants eventually becoming Canadian citizens. To qualify, newcomers must live in Canada for at least 1,095 days during the five years preceding their application. Once naturalized, these new Canadians gain the right to vote and help shape national policies that will define their lives in the years to come.
Historically, voter turnout among immigrants has closely mirrored that of Canadian-born citizens. According to Statistics Canada, in the 2019 federal election, 78% of citizens born in Canada cast votes, compared to 75% of immigrants who arrived more than a decade ago, and 72% of those who immigrated within the last 10 years. These figures underline the growing political influence of immigrant voters.
The 2021 election took place against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, a crisis that has redefined national priorities. While Canada has made progress with vaccinations and economic support programs, long-term effects—from healthcare sustainability to labor market recovery—remain unresolved. Immigrants, particularly those employed in hard-hit sectors, bear a significant share of this burden.
Among the most pressing issues for immigrant voters is the question of affordable housing. As home prices soar across major metros and smaller towns alike, parties have proposed varied strategies, from increasing housing supply to tightening regulations around foreign ownership. These policies could greatly affect new Canadians striving for long-term stability.
Economic recovery is another focal concern. Although Canada has regained many of the jobs lost in 2020, immigrant workers were disproportionately impacted and continue to face barriers as they re-enter the workforce. Voters are closely watching parties’ proposals on job creation, small business support, and labor market integration.
Immigration-specific challenges also remain front and center. Although travel restrictions have eased, backlogs in immigration processing persist. Many families are still separated, awaiting decisions from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). How the next government plans to resolve these delays—whether in family reunification, economic immigration, or refugee sponsorship—will likely influence how many immigrants vote.
This federal election was not only pivotal for all Canadians but especially for those who have chosen Canada as their new home. With immigration at the heart of Canada’s demographic and economic strategy, the outcome of this vote holds the potential to reshape how Canada welcomes, supports, and integrates its newcomers.