Children of Economic Immigrants Earn More Than Canadian Average, Stats Show

At the same time, not all immigrant children enjoy the same financial outcomes when they grow up. Factors such as age at arrival, parents’ economic background, and immigration category all play a role. Yet despite these challenges, the data shows that Canada truly can offer a brighter future for those willing to work toward it. 

Key Takeaways 

• Children who settle in Canada at a younger age often adapt better and earn higher wages later. 

• Investing early in English or French classes makes it easier to succeed in school and land higher-paying jobs. 

• Completing college or university greatly improves career prospects and earning potential. 

• Joining clubs, local events, and mentorship programs opens doors to job leads and support systems. 

• Upgrading your skills with courses or certifications keeps you competitive in Canada’s evolving job market. 

The Stats: Wages for Immigrant Children 

Younger Children Often Earn More Later 

Children who arrive in Canada at a younger age often do better in the job market as adults. By age 30, immigrant children earn a median wage of $58,300, which is 19.1% higher than the Canadian average of $48,970. Arriving before age 5 can help even more, as these children may earn over $59,000 at age 30. This suggests that the earlier a family settles, the sooner they can start building the skills and connections that lead to strong financial outcomes. 

Admission Category Matters 

Children who come through the economic category tend to reach the highest wages. At age 30, they earn about $64,000, which is more than family-sponsored immigrants ($47,600), refugees ($49,700), or other immigrants ($51,800).  

One reason for this might be that economic category parents often bring resources and job skills that help their children access better opportunities. This advantage highlights how planning your move and securing the right support can make the path to a bright future smoother. 

Keys to Building Success 

Prioritize Language Skills 

Mastering English or French early can open many doors in school and work settings. Solid language skills often lead to higher pay and better career paths. Luckily, many communities offer free or low-cost classes, giving families the chance to grow their language abilities and strengthen their future prospects. 

Aim for Higher Education 

Studies link postsecondary education with stronger earnings for immigrant children, proving that investing in education pays off. While college or university can be costly, loans, grants, and scholarships are available. Many programs also provide mentoring and guidance, helping immigrant families navigate new academic systems and prepare for the careers that offer the brightest outlooks. 

• Learn more about saving for your child’s future education in Canada.  

Build Strong Networks 

Building a circle of supportive contacts can be one of the best ways to improve job opportunities. Joining clubs at school, attending local events, or connecting with professionals in your field can lead to valuable friendships and mentorships. When community members help each other, everyone’s chance at success grows. 

Choose Growth Industries 

Technology, health care, and green energy are just a few of the fast-growing fields in Canada. These areas often offer higher salaries and job stability, making them great choices for newcomers. By focusing on in-demand skills, children of immigrants can look forward to a promising professional journey and competitive wages. 

Find Community Resources 

Local groups frequently provide settlement services, career advice, and résumé-building sessions for newcomers. Taking advantage of these resources can make job searches more effective and help newcomers understand Canadian workplace norms. Even simple improvements—like learning how to tailor a résumé—can boost starting salaries and long-term earnings. 

Keep Learning 

Continuous learning helps you stay competitive in Canada’s changing labor market. Look for workshops, online courses, or certifications in areas that spark your interest. Gaining new skills in fields like data analytics or project management can open doors to higher-paying jobs and keep your future bright. 

Push for Better Policies 

Community efforts and policies also play a huge role in immigrant success. Advocacy groups, schools, and settlement agencies are working hard to get newcomers the language training, financial assistance, and mentoring they need. When more support becomes available, more families can seize Canada’s opportunities and build the lives they dream of. 

The Road Ahead 

Despite initial challenges, many immigrant children in Canada surpass their Canadian-born peers’ earnings by their mid-20s. This fact proves the country’s potential for offering a better life. Strong language skills, dedicated study, and community support all come together to form a recipe for long-term success. 

Canada’s rich diversity is a testament to how newcomers and their families bring energy, innovation, and hope. By aiming for strong education, creating supportive networks, and adapting to the changing job market, immigrant children can carve out a bright future in their new home. This journey may not always be easy, but the Statistics Canada data shows that with perseverance and the right help, newcomers and their family can—and do—succeed in building fulfilling lives.