Canada has long been seen as a land of opportunity, attracting immigrants from all corners of the globe, including a significant number of Filipinos. With its promise of a high quality of life, robust social services, and diverse communities, it’s no surprise that many have chosen to start anew in the Great White North. However, recent trends indicate a shift, with an increasing number of immigrants opting to leave Canada.
This phenomenon raises important questions: What is prompting this change? Why are some immigrants deciding that Canada is no longer their ideal home? In this article, we delve into the top ten reasons driving this exodus, shedding light on the challenges and realities that are influencing these decisions.
Why Immigrants are Leaving Canada
The information presented in this article comes from a YouTube video from the channel Alwyn & Emma. In this video, the OFW vloggers explain why more than 15 percent of immigrants decide to leave Canada to return to their homeland or to another country within 20 years after admission as permanent residents based on Statistics Canada. Click in the video below to watch the full video:
1. High Cost of Living
One of the most significant factors prompting immigrants to leave Canada is the high cost of living. The housing market has seen substantial increases, making it difficult for many to afford homes. This housing crisis is felt across the country, with house prices skyrocketing and rents following suit. The cost of groceries has also risen sharply, leading to long lines at food banks and many families struggling to buy basic necessities. In Alberta, for instance, the cost of rent, mortgages, and utilities like electricity is exceedingly high. Additionally, car insurance rates vary by province but are generally expensive. Daycare costs are another burden, with many families finding that their wages, even at minimum wage, are insufficient to keep up with the living wage required for a decent standard of living.
2. Tight Job Competition
The job market in Canada is highly competitive, which poses a challenge for both immigrants and locals. Finding employment can be tough even when utilizing platforms like Indeed or Job Bank. Many people submit 10 to 20 job applications without success due to the intense competition. Even Canadian citizens struggle, indicating that the job market is saturated, making it difficult for new immigrants to secure positions that match their skills and qualifications.
3. High Expectations
Those recruited by agencies often find that their expectations are not met. Promises that working for just a year will dramatically improve their lives turn out to be false hopes. Upon arriving in Canada, the reality becomes clear: it is not a paradise where wealth comes easily. Instead, one must put in significant effort and time to build a successful future.
4. Failure to Recognize Foreign Credentials
One of the most significant hurdles for immigrants in Canada is the failure to recognize foreign credentials. Many professionals who were successful in their home countries, such as engineers, doctors, and nurses from the Philippines, find it challenging to continue their careers in Canada without undergoing additional training and certification. This process can be lengthy and costly, requiring immigrants to take multiple exams and sometimes even start their education over. This barrier prevents many skilled professionals from working in their fields, leading to frustration and prompting some to leave Canada in search of better opportunities where their qualifications are recognized.
5. Better Economic Opportunities in Other Countries
While Canada is often seen as a land of opportunity, some immigrants find better economic prospects elsewhere. For example, nurses may find more lucrative opportunities in the United States or Europe. The allure of higher salaries, better working conditions, and more recognition for their skills and experience can be a strong motivator for immigrants to move. With the global job market becoming increasingly interconnected, many people explore opportunities outside of Canada to maximize their potential and improve their quality of life.
6. Discrimination
Discrimination, although not always overt, is a factor that influences some immigrants’ decisions to leave Canada. While Canada is known for its friendly and polite communities, it is not immune to discrimination. Immigrants from various backgrounds occasionally face subtle or direct bias, which can affect their job prospects and overall quality of life. In some cases, employers may prefer to hire Canadian-born individuals over immigrants, regardless of qualifications. Although there are no concrete statistics to support this claim universally, personal experiences of discrimination can lead to feelings of alienation and frustration, prompting some immigrants to seek a more inclusive environment elsewhere.
7. Cold Climate
Canada’s cold climate is another reason why some immigrants choose to leave. The harsh winters, particularly in provinces like Manitoba and Saskatchewan, can be difficult to endure. Temperatures can plummet to as low as -50 to -45 degrees Fahrenheit, making it uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous to be outside. While provinces like British Columbia offer milder winters, the high cost of living in cities like Vancouver offsets the climatic advantage. Many immigrants, especially those from tropical countries like the Philippines, find the long, frigid winters challenging and ultimately decide to return to warmer climates where they feel more comfortable and at home.
8. Homesickness
Homesickness is a common issue among immigrants. Being far from family and friends can be emotionally taxing, especially for those who are not used to living independently. Canada’s lifestyle, particularly in its quieter provinces, can feel isolating compared to the bustling life back home. Social activities and night life are limited, with malls and other public places often closing early, especially on Sundays. In the Philippines, evenings are peak times for socializing and going out. The lack of a strong support system in Canada can lead to feelings of loneliness and sadness, making some immigrants reconsider their decision to stay.
9. Politics
Political issues in Canada can influence immigrants’ decisions to leave.
Despite Canada’s generally stable political environment, some policies and climates may not align with immigrants’ expectations or needs.
Specific issues include:
- Immigration policies
- Economic policies
- Social issues
Changes in immigration laws or benefits can directly impact immigrants’ lives and their sense of security. Political dissatisfaction can push immigrants to seek environments where their needs and rights are better addressed.
10. Healthcare System
Canada’s healthcare system, often cited as a major reason for immigrating, can also be a reason for leaving. While the country offers universal healthcare, the system is not without its flaws. Long wait times for medical appointments and treatments can be frustrating, especially for those in need of immediate care. In emergency situations, the delay in receiving attention can be particularly distressing. Some immigrants find that the healthcare systems in other countries, where medical attention is more readily available, better meet their needs.
These ten reasons highlight the complex and varied challenges that OFWs face in Canada. While the country remains a land of opportunity for many, understanding these issues is crucial for addressing the needs of immigrants and ensuring that Canada continues to be a welcoming and supportive environment for all.