According to the Longitudinal Survey of Immigrants to Canada (LSIC), 2001, in spite of challenging access conditions to suitable accommodation in some areas of the country, many new immigrants had different housing experiences: most lived in only one place, a few moved more than once and some relied on relatives or a friend temporarily.
A large number of recent immigrants perceive that they are able to carry on a conversation in at least one of the two official languages. Including language ability as part of the selection criteria for skilled workers seems to have an impact on the language ability of new immigrants.
New immigrants are generally in good health. Older immigrants and refugees were most likely to report health problems. Six months after arrival almost all of the LSIC immigrants had a provincial health card, and therefore access to a broad range of health services.
Although the majority of immigrants were highly educated upon arrival, a large proportion of immigrants have continued with their education or training: specifically taking language training and education leading to a degree or diploma or job-related training.
Most immigrants had tried to enter the labour market, of those, 44% were employed and 26% unemployed. Skilled worker principal applicants had the highest participation rate. Immigrants in the prime working age (25 to 44 years old) and males were most likely to be employed. By region, the Prairies had the highest employment and lowest unemployment rate.
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Most immigrants brought saving to Canada. Immigrants in the family category report highest family income levels. Employment earnings constitute three-quarters of family income. In total, about one-third of LSIC immigrants report not having enough money to meet their basic needs.
The high proportion of immigrants reporting satisfaction with their early experiences in Canada may indicate that, in spite of obstacles for some of them, most immigrants are adjusting and are committed to establish themselves successfully in Canada.
The majority of immigrants (92%) expressed their intention to settle permanently and become Canadian citizens. As well, 47% of the immigrants reported that they wanted to bring their relatives to Canada by sponsoring their immigration.
Moving to a new country is challenging. Although many new immigrants encountered difficulties, it appears problems finding employment was the biggest hurdle. Lack of recognition of foreign qualifications and/or work experience, financial problems and language barriers were the most serious problems reported.
New immigrants most often depend on relatives or household members and friends for help with problems.
