A new interactive tool from Statistics Canada is providing Canadians with a clearer look at how much immigrants across the country are actually earning. Released on July 7, the new data visualization tool makes it easier for users to explore both average and median income levels among immigrants, with the option to filter results by different immigration categories and other characteristics. The latest year for which complete data is available through this tool is 2021. Here’s all about how much do immigrants in Canada earn on average.
Average Earnings Of Immigrants In Canada
Based on Statistics Canada’s most recent figures, the average employment income for immigrants in 2021 was CAD $49,160.
This figure includes income earned through salaries, hourly wages, tips, commissions, and self-employment for anyone aged 15 and older.
The median employment income for immigrants was lower at $36,800. The median helps paint a clearer picture by showing the middle point in the income range — meaning half of immigrants earned more than $36,800, while the other half earned less.
| Immigration Status | Average Income (in 2021) |
| Non-permanent residents (includes those on work or study permits, or those who have claimed refugee status) | $32,080 |
| Immigrants who were admitted to Canada in the last 10 years (from 2021) | $42,320 |
| Immigrants who were admitted to Canada more than 10 years ago | $52,050 |
For comparison, the average income for non-immigrants — Canadian-born or long-term citizens — in 2021 was slightly higher, sitting at $51,400.
The data highlights a common pattern in Canada: immigrants who have lived in the country longer tend to earn more than newcomers. This is often due to having more time to gain local work experience, improve language skills, and build professional networks.
How Education Level Affects Immigrant Income?
In addition to knowing how much do immigrants in Canada earn on average, it is also vital to note the education level which affects immigrant income.
Well, the tool also shows that education plays a significant role in determining how much newcomers can expect to earn. Higher education typically leads to better-paying jobs and more career options.
Here’s how income breaks down by educational attainment for immigrants in 2021:
| Educational Qualification | Average Income (in 2021) |
| No certificate diploma or degree | $27,400 |
| Secondary school diploma or equivalency certificate | $32,920 |
| Post secondary certificate, diploma or degree | $56,800 |
| Post secondary certificate or diploma below bachelor level | $42,920 |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | $65,200 |
Immigrants with a bachelor’s degree or higher earned the highest average income at $65,200, which is significantly above the overall average for immigrants. Meanwhile, those with no formal certification or degree earned the least.
Other Factors That Shape Newcomer Income In Canada
In addition to education, other factors can have a big impact on how much immigrants earn in Canada over time.
According to Statistics Canada’s 2022 findings, three key factors stand out:
- Canadian work experience before landing: Immigrants who have worked in Canada before becoming permanent residents tend to earn more once they settle permanently.
- Age at landing: Younger immigrants often earn more in the long term than older newcomers. In fact, those who arrive younger can earn up to 44% more, even a decade after settling in Canada.
- Language skills: Strong ability in one or both of Canada’s official languages — English and French — is linked to higher earnings, as language skills open doors to more job opportunities and career growth.
Overall, immigrants who arrive with good language proficiency, higher education, and some Canadian work experience are generally better positioned to succeed in the job market and earn a strong income over time.
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