Canada’s Population Reaches 41 Million by Immigration Surge

On April 1, 2024, Canada’s population exceeded 41 million, largely due to a combination of permanent and temporary immigration.

The country’s population increased by 1 million in under a year.

In June 2023, the population of the country reached 40 million.

During the first quarter of 2024, Canada experienced significant growth with an increase of 242,673 people, marking a 0.6% rise in just three months.

Canadian Population by Region

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

In the second quarter of 2024, Canada’s population reached 41,012,563, continuing its upward trend from the first quarter of 2024. Ontario remained the most populous province with 15,996,989 residents, followed by Quebec with 9,030,684. British Columbia and Alberta also showed significant population increases, reaching 5,646,467 and 4,849,906 respectively. Other provinces and territories experienced steady growth, contributing to the overall increase in the national population.

Given that this growth rate aligns with previous quarters, Canada’s demographic expansion is ongoing, with a real-time population clock currently displaying a total of 41,326,090 residents.

Immigration as a Key Driver

Immigration played an important role in the population growth this quarter, accounting for a remarkable 99.3% of the increase—equivalent to 240,955 people, both permanent and temporary.

Permanent immigration, a significant part of Canada’s expansion strategy, brought in 121,758 new residents in the first quarter of 2024.

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aims for an annual permanent immigration target of 485,000 for 2024, underscoring Canada’s strong appeal to immigrants.

Immigration Trends in the Maritime Provinces

The Maritime provinces of Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia experienced their highest quarterly immigration numbers since 1971, highlighting a growing need for skilled workers in these areas.

While temporary immigration has increased, it appears to be tapering off from its peak levels in previous quarters.

The net rise in non-permanent residents (NPRs) is lower than in past record-breaking periods, indicating that this demographic trend might be stabilizing.

Canada has set a limit on the number of international students permitted to enter the country each year and will announce for the first time, the target for annual temporary residents in November 2024.

Alberta Leads in Inter-Provincial Migration

Alberta emerged as a major beneficiary of interprovincial migration, showing different patterns of movement across the country. The province saw a net gain of 12,482 people, primarily from British Columbia and Ontario, highlighting its appeal to those seeking economic opportunities.

Conversely, Ontario experienced its 17th consecutive quarter of net losses in interprovincial migration, underscoring the ongoing population shifts as provinces compete to attract and retain residents amid changing economic landscapes.

Despite these interprovincial shifts, Canada is well-positioned for growth driven by immigration, as the population nears 41 million. This demographic change not only impacts economic conditions but also reinforces Canada’s status as a global magnet for diversity and talent.

The latest population milestone reflects a nation embracing immigration-driven growth, setting the stage for a dynamic future amid evolving global opportunities and challenges.

Factors Fueling Canada’s Population Growth in 2024

International migration is the primary driver of Canada’s population growth in 2024, accounting for 99.3% of the increase in the first quarter.

This growth includes both permanent immigration, which aligns with government targets, and temporary immigration, which continues to be significant despite recent policy changes.

Provinces with the Highest Immigration Rates

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

This surge is primarily driven by initiatives aimed at addressing regional labor shortages and attracting skilled workers.

Impact of Interprovincial Migration on Alberta and Ontario

Alberta has consistently seen net population gains from other provinces, notably from Ontario and British Columbia.

Conversely, Ontario has endured ongoing net losses in interprovincial migration for 17 consecutive quarters, as residents relocate to other regions.

Impact of Non-Permanent Residents on Canada’s Population Surge

As of April 1, 2024, Canada’s population includes a record high of 2,793,594 non-permanent residents (NPRs).

This category encompasses permit holders (such as those for work or study) as well as individuals seeking asylum or protected status. NPRs are important in enriching Canada’s diverse and dynamic population fabric.

Projections for Canada’s Population Growth

Canada’s population is projected to continue expanding in the coming years, primarily driven by sustained levels of immigration.

Demographic trends will likely be influenced by policies supporting permanent residency and adjustments to temporary immigration quotas. These factors will play a crucial role in shaping Canada’s economic and social landscape moving forward.