Maple News reports that the median earnings of recent immigrants to Canada have reached record levels, according to a new study by Statistics Canada. The study, which draws on data from the Longitudinal Immigration Database, highlights positive wage trends among permanent residents, particularly those from economic-class immigration programs.
Immigrants who became permanent residents in 2018 earned a median wage of $31,900 in 2019—the highest recorded for any group of immigrants admitted since 1981. This figure is approximately 4% higher than what immigrants who arrived in 2017 earned a year after their landing. Despite this progress, their earnings still lag behind the median wage of Canadian-born workers, which stood at $38,800 in 2019—about 18% higher.
However, when focusing on principal applicants within economic-class immigration streams, the earnings narrative shifts. These individuals earned a median salary of $43,600 just one year after arrival—more than 12% above the Canadian median. The report attributes this to Canada’s immigration selection system, which favors candidates with higher education, official language proficiency, and relevant work experience—factors contributing significantly to smoother labor market integration.
“Principal applicants in the economic categories are selected for their ability to integrate into the Canadian labour market and to contribute to the economy,” the report notes. “Most have post-secondary education and knowledge of at least one official language.”
Canadian experience prior to permanent residence also plays a significant role in boosting immigrant incomes. Those who had both work and study experience before formally immigrating reported the highest median wage—$44,600—one year after arrival. This group even out-earned Canadian-born workers.
Similarly, immigrants with only prior work experience in Canada earned $39,300 in 2019, still ahead of the national median for native-born individuals. These findings underscore the value of Canadian work exposure, particularly when coupled with formal education and language skills.
This study is the first installment of a two-part series analyzing immigrant outcomes in Canada. The second part will focus on the mobility patterns of immigrants post-admission, shedding further light on how newcomers navigate regional labor markets.