Canada job market insights for immigrants 2024

If you’re among those considering a leap to Canada—often referred to as “japa” in Nigeria—you’re in good company. Many are seeking fresh opportunities in this beautiful, diverse country. The recent Labour Force Survey (LFS) for September 2024 offers some encouraging insights into the job market that can help you on your journey.

As of September 2024, Canada’s unemployment rate is at 6.5%, slightly down from previous months. The country saw an increase of 47,000 jobs last month alone, indicating a shift toward a more vibrant job market after several months of stagnation. Notably, employment among young people (aged 15 to 24) rose by 33,000 and core-aged women (25 to 54 years) by 21,000. This is great news for newcomers, especially if you’re a young professional or a woman seeking new opportunities.

What are the jobs in demand in the Canadian job market

key sectors driving job growth in the Canadian job market

Information, Culture, and Recreation: Up by 22,000 jobs (+2.6%).
Wholesale and Retail Trade: Also increased by 22,000 (+0.8%).
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services: Grew by 21,000 (+1.1%).

These areas present diverse opportunities for immigrants with different skill sets, particularly in sectors where Canada is actively looking to fill gaps.

Which Regions Are Hiring in Canada?

Ontario (+43,000 jobs) and Quebec (+22,000 jobs) are leading the way in employment growth. These provinces are not only economically vibrant but also home to established immigrant communities, providing a network of support that can be invaluable as you settle in.

However, provinces like British Columbia and New Brunswick experienced job losses, highlighting the need to research your potential new home carefully.

The Job Market Dynamics

Youth Employment Challenges

The youth unemployment rate is currently at 13.5%, which, while a slight improvement, still presents challenges for younger job seekers. As you plan your move, it’s important to recognize that entry-level positions can be competitive.

For core-aged women, the employment landscape is showing some positive trends, with more women entering the workforce. This indicates a growing acceptance of diverse workforces, which is promising for immigrants seeking to contribute their skills and perspectives.

The Experience of Racialized Communities

The LFS data reveals that core-aged Black Canadians and South Asian Canadians are facing rising unemployment rates, pointing to ongoing challenges for racialized groups in the job market. This underscores the importance of community connections and networking as you navigate your job search.

What You Need to Know About Participation Rates

Canada’s overall labour force participation rate is at 64.9%, with some notable changes among different age groups. While youth participation has been declining, those aged 25 to 54 have remained stable. This indicates that younger immigrants may need to be proactive and persistent in their job searches, especially during challenging economic times.

Bridging the Gap

One important finding is that 64.8% of recent immigrants reported that their jobs were related to their field of study, compared to 72.2% of Canadian-born workers. This highlights the importance of building connections and exploring positions that align with your qualifications, even if they aren’t an exact match for your past experiences.

As you embark on this journey, remember that many have walked this path before you. Stay resilient, and embrace the experiences that come your way. Canada is ready to welcome you, and the possibilities are endless!