Immigrating to Canada with your family involves moving to Canada as a family unit to establish permanent residency or citizenship. This is an increasingly popular option as Canada is seen as a family-friendly country with many advantages for those raising children or looking to start a family.
In recent years, more and more families have chosen to immigrate to Canada due to factors like business and employment opportunities, cultural diversity, quality of life, and family-focused government policies. Canada offers long-term security, community, and a bright future for families willing to take the step to move there.
Increasing Number of Families Choosing Canada
Over the past decade, Canada has seen a steady rise in the number of families immigrating from countries around the world. For example, the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada under the family class increased from 56,422 in 2010 to 81,321 in 2020, representing a 44% increase over that period.
Experts cite Canada’s economic stability, family reunification policies, world-class education, and universal healthcare system as major draws. The country is also known for its multiculturalism, safety, environmental sustainability, and family-friendly communities, all of which appeal to those looking to put down roots.
Business-Friendly Environment and Opportunities
Canada offers a very business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to immigrate with their families. The corporate tax rates are competitive, there are government small business loans and grants available, and Canada consistently ranks highly in global ease of doing business indexes.
Major urban centers like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Calgary have thriving business ecosystems for startups across sectors like technology, life sciences, cleantech, and more. Canada also has an appealing “brain gain” program to attract immigrant entrepreneurs.
In terms of immigration policies, Canada has dedicated visa streams like the Start-Up Visa Program and Self-Employed Class focused specifically on facilitating business immigration for founders and owners.
Pathway to Citizenship and Residency
A major reason families choose to immigrate to Canada is the clear and reasonable pathway to gaining permanent residency and eventually full Canadian citizenship.
For most economic immigrant categories, permanent residency can be obtained directly or within a couple years of arriving in Canada with a temporary work or study permit. And permanent residents can apply for Canadian citizenship after living in Canada for 3 out of the previous 5 years.
This certainty and ease of attaining permanent status, compared to more complex immigration systems in other countries, makes planning a future in Canada more appealing for immigrant families.
Cultural Diversity and Family-Centric Ethos
Known globally as a culturally diverse and welcoming society, Canada is home to immigrants from over 200 ethnicities and counting. This diversity is protected under constitutional multiculturalism policies and human rights laws.
Major Canadian cities offer cultural events and community services catered to people of all backgrounds. Public schools provide customized supports to ease integration challenges for immigrant families and children.
Beyond diversity, Canada also has a pronounced family-centric ethos. Parental leave policies, family tax credits, universal healthcare, affordable daycare programs, walkable communities, and more family-oriented public infrastructure make life easier for households.
For those seeking not just economic stability but also a sense of community and belonging, Canada’s cultural mosaic and family focus are definite assets.
Quality of Life
Canada is respected globally for its very high overall quality of life for residents. Key factors that boost livability for families considering immigration include:
- Affordable housing – Canada has lower average property prices than other developed countries
- Work-life balance – Robust employee rights and cultural attitudes promote personal time
- Clean, safe environment – Low pollution levels and crime rates ensure family security
- Outdoor lifestyles – Access to nature, parks, recreational spaces across communities
- Excellent public infrastructure – Well-funded schools, healthcare, transit, civic services
From owning a beautiful home to spending more time together stress-free to raising kids in an environment where they can thrive, Canada offers the best elements for family wellbeing.
Robust Economy and Employment Opportunities
Canada has substantial labour shortages in various occupations, from skilled trades to technology to healthcare. The country actively recruits immigrants to fill these gaps and power continued economic growth.
Unemployment rates have been at historic lows across most provinces in recent years. The economy consistently generates new jobs across sectors, supporting high workforce participation levels.
For families, this translates into abundant employment opportunities, financial stability, and confidence in the future. It also means kids have access to quality education and the promise of good jobs when they grow up. Canada invests heavily in education, including free K-12 schooling and world-class affordable post-secondary options.
In today’s uncertain global economy, Canada’s robust fundamentals provide immigrant families with security and optimism about building a life there.
Conclusion
When families decide to take the significant step of immigrating to another country, Canada stands out as an ideal destination. Its unparalleled blend of economic prosperity, diversity and inclusion, family-friendly social policies, enviable standard of living, and appealing visas for immigrants checking all the boxes. For those seeking security, community, and opportunities for their children, Canada represents a place where families can truly thrive and build a bright future together. The nation continues to recognize this appeal and shape itself as open and welcoming to immigrant households from varied backgrounds.
