Are New Canadians Really Leaving Canada? Latest Study Reveals the Truth

There's a persistent belief that many immigrants, after obtaining Canadian citizenship, leave the country for better opportunities abroad. However, a recent study by Statistics Canada offers data-driven clarity, proving this myth largely false. The report shows that the vast majority of naturalized citizens continue to actively participate in Canadian society even a decade after their arrival.

This blog explores key insights from the study, shedding light on immigrant retention rates, factors influencing citizenship, and what this means for future newcomers and immigration policies in Canada.

Key Finding: Canadian Citizenship Leads to Higher Retention Rates

The study focused on immigrants admitted to Canada between 2008 and 2012, aged 25 to 54 at the time of admission. Among those who acquired Canadian citizenship, an impressive 93% remained actively present in Canada—measured by annual income tax filings—10 years after landing.

In contrast, only 67% of those who didn’t become citizens showed a similar active presence over the same period.

Real-Life Relevance:

Example: A 30-year-old skilled worker from India who landed in Canada in 2010, became a citizen in 2015, and has continuously filed taxes while working in IT, represents the majority outcome of this study. These citizens not only stay but contribute meaningfully to the Canadian economy.

Improving Retention Among Newer Immigrant Cohorts

The study also compares two immigrant groups:

• 2003–2007 cohort: 91% retention for citizens vs. 58% for non-citizens

• 2008–2012 cohort: 93% retention for citizens vs. 67% for non-citizens

This indicates an upward trend in immigrant retention over time, suggesting that Canada's integration policies are becoming more effective.

What Influences Immigrant Retention and Citizenship?

Several human capital factors were found to significantly influence whether immigrants chose to become citizens and stay long-term:

1. Education Level

Immigrants with bachelor's or graduate degrees were more likely to naturalize and remain active in Canada.

Use Case: A graduate student from Nigeria who studied engineering in Ontario and secured a PR through Express Entry is more likely to stay and integrate, especially after becoming a citizen.

2. Language Skills

Proficiency in English or French at the time of immigration was strongly associated with higher citizenship rates.

3. Age at Time of Immigration

Those who arrived between ages 20 and 34 had higher naturalization and retention rates than older immigrants.

4. Immigration Category

Refugees topped the list in terms of naturalization, followed by Federal Skilled Workers and Quebec-selected immigrants.

5. Country of Origin

Citizenship rates were higher among immigrants from developing countries like the Philippines (74%–82%) than from developed nations like the US or UK (35%–54%).

Does Citizenship Lead to Emigration?

One of the main concerns addressed by the study is whether immigrants tend to leave Canada after obtaining citizenship.

Here’s what the data shows:

• 1 year before citizenship: 97% active presence

• 1 year after citizenship: 95% active presence

• 3 years after citizenship: 92% active presence

That’s only a 5% decline over three years—a minimal drop, especially when compared to non-citizens, whose retention declined steadily by 3% each year.

Why This Matters:

Use Case: A Syrian refugee who became a citizen in 2018 and opened a small business in Calgary is statistically likely to still be living and contributing to the local economy in 2025.

Key Takeaway: Citizenship = Commitment to Canada

The conclusion is clear: Canadian citizenship strongly correlates with long-term residence and active economic participation. While some citizens may choose to leave, the majority stay and thrive in Canada, helping to build stronger communities and a more diverse workforce.

Final Thoughts: What This Means for Future Immigrants

For prospective immigrants, especially those considering permanent residency through Express Entry, PNPs, or refugee programs, the study provides reassurance. Canadian citizenship is not just a milestone—it’s a meaningful commitment to a new life in a welcoming country.

And for policymakers, the findings underscore the importance of investing in language training, education pathways, and integration programs, which can directly influence an immigrant’s decision to stay.