Canada's Population Soars Past 41 Million Due To Immigration

Last Updated On 20 June 2024, 12:18 PM EDT (Toronto Time)

Canada’s population surpassed 41 million on April 1, 2024, primarily as a result of permanent and temporary immigration.

The Canadian population surged by 1 million in less than a year.

Country’s population hit the 40 million mark in June 2023.

In the first quarter of 2024, Canada had strong growth of 242,673 people, or a 0.6% quarterly gain.

Canadian Population

Geography	Q2 2024	Q1 2024	Q3 2023	Q4 2023
Canada	41,012,563	40,769,890	40,097,761	40,528,396
Ontario	15,996,989	15,911,285	15,608,369	15,801,768
Quebec	9,030,684	8,984,918	8,874,683	8,948,540
British Columbia	5,646,467	5,609,870	5,519,013	5,581,127
Alberta	4,849,906	4,800,768	4,695,290	4,756,408
Manitoba	1,484,135	1,474,439	1,454,902	1,465,440
Saskatchewan	1,231,043	1,225,493	1,209,107	1,218,976
Nova Scotia	1,072,545	1,069,364	1,058,694	1,066,416
New Brunswick	850,894	846,190	834,691	842,725
Newfoundland and Labrador	541,391	540,552	538,605	540,418
Prince Edward Island	177,081	176,162	173,787	175,853
Yukon	45,750	45,387	44,975	45,148
Northwest Territories	44,920	44,741	44,972	44,760
Nunavut	40,758	40,721	40,673	40,817

Canadian population

Given that this growth rate is comparable with other quarters, Canadian demographic expansion is continuing, with a real-time population clock showing the number of 41,326,090 at the time of writing this article.

Immigration is a major factor

The startling 99.3% of the population increase in this quarter—240,955 people—came from immigration, both permanent and temporary.

A key component of Canada’s growth plan, permanent immigration welcomed 121,758 people in the first quarter of 2024.

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has an annual permanent immigration target set at 485,000 for 2024, and this inflow emphasizes Canada’s attraction to immigrants.

Particularly, the Maritime provinces of Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia posted their highest quarterly immigration numbers since 1971, underscoring their increasing demand for trained workers.

Although temporary immigration rose, it might be slowing down from the highest points seen in earlier quarters.

The net increase in non-permanent residents (NPRs) is less than in previous record-breaking times, which suggests that this demographic trend may be stabilizing.

Canada has capped the number of international students allowed to enter the country annually and will also be declaring for the first time, the target of annual temporary residents in November 2024.

Alberta Inter-Provincial Migration Continues To Be High

Different patterns were seen in interprovincial movement, with Alberta showing to be a major gainer among the provinces.

The net influx of 12,482 people, mostly from British Columbia and Ontario, demonstrates its appeal as a location for internal migrants looking for economic prospects.

On the other hand, interprovincial migration in Ontario continued to result in net losses, its 17th quarter in a row.

This pattern emphasizes continuous changes in Canada’s population as provinces fight to draw in and keep citizens in the face of shifting economic conditions.

The country is nonetheless well-positioned for immigration-driven growth, even as its population approaches 41 million.

This shift in population not only affects economic conditions but also highlights Canada’s position as a global draw for variety and talent.

Finally, Canada’s most recent population milestone shows a country welcoming immigration-driven growth, paving the way for a dynamic future in the face of changing global possibilities and challenges.

What is driving Canada’s population growth in 2024?

International migration, which accounted for 99.3% of the increase in the first quarter, will be the main factor driving Canada’s population growth in 2024.

This includes both permanent immigration, meeting government targets, and temporary immigration, which remains substantial despite recent policy adjustments.

Which provinces are experiencing the highest immigration rates?

In the first quarter of 2024, the Maritime provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island recorded their highest immigration numbers since 1971.

This increase is largely due to efforts to address regional labour shortages and attract skilled workers.

How has interprovincial migration affected provinces like Alberta and Ontario?

Alberta continues to experience net gains in population from other provinces, particularly from Ontario and British Columbia.

In contrast, Ontario has sustained net losses in interprovincial migration for 17 consecutive quarters, with residents leaving for other regions.

What is the significance of non-permanent residents (NPRs) in Canada’s population growth?

As of April 1, 2024, NPRs totaled 2,793,594 individuals in Canada, a record high.

This group includes both permit holders (work or study) and individuals seeking asylum or protected status, contributing significantly to Canada’s diverse and dynamic population.

What are the projections for Canada’s population growth in the coming years?

Canada’s population is expected to continue growing, driven by sustained levels of immigration.

Policies supporting permanent residency and adjustments to temporary immigration quotas will likely shape future demographic trends, influencing economic and social dynamics across the country.

Gagandeep Kaur Sekhon

Gagandeep Kaur Sekhon moved to Canada in 2010 on a study visa. She navigated through the ups and downs of her student life and gained her permanent residency in 2015. Today, she is a proud Canadian citizen residing in Calgary, Alberta. She is mother of 2 beautiful daughters and making her difference through writing and guidance at INC – Immigration News Canada.