Canada has historically been known for its openness to immigrants and its multicultural approach to social integration. Studies show that Canadians demonstrate relatively high levels of acceptance of newcomers compared to other countries around the world. In 2019, Canada was ranked the most welcoming country for immigrants in a survey of 145 countries according to the Gallup Migrant Acceptance Index.

A recent CBC poll found that newcomers are satisfied with life in Canada, although they cite a lack of jobs and services for immigrants. Overall, more than 80% of Canadians believe that immigrants are good for the economy, and most approve of multiculturalism as a foundation of Canadian identity.

The evolution of Canadian attitudes: from acceptance to concern

Historical openness

For decades, Canada has built a reputation as a country that welcomes people from other countries, and this has increasingly become part of the country's self-image. Environics Institute surveys conducted since 1977 have shown consistently positive attitudes toward immigration among Canadians.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, contrary to expectations, Canadians' openness to newcomers actually increased, reaching record levels in more than 40 years of Focus Canada research. More than 8 in 10 Canadians considered immigrants beneficial to the economy, citing job creation and business expansion as the main reasons for accepting newcomers.

Current challenges

However, the situation changed in 2023. Surveys showed a significant increase in the number of Canadians who believe that the country is accepting too many immigrants. In 2024, 58% of Canadians believed that immigration levels were too high — a 14 percentage point increase from 2023 and the highest level since 1998.

These changes in public opinion are linked to:

  • Economic concerns and housing shortages
  • Declining trust in the government's management of immigration
  • Pressure on public services

It is important to note that these concerns are now evident across all ethnic and age groups, including immigrants themselves. According to the Leger poll, 57 percent of immigrants also agree that there are too many immigrants.

Characteristics of Canadian culture of friendship and socialization

Friendliness versus intimacy

Canadians are often described as friendly but reserved. They are polite and welcoming, but forming deeper connections can take time and effort. This cultural trait influences the experience of newcomers as they try to find genuine friends.

Research shows that Canadians demonstrate traditional politeness, but moving from small talk to genuine friendship requires initiative on both sides. Small talk is an important part of Canadian culture, including topics such as the weather, sports, or local events.

Regional differences

Social customs vary between provinces:

  • Ontario: The metropolitan environment encourages more active social habits

  • Quebec: The community culture is focused on hospitality and inclusiveness

  • British Columbia: Most socializing takes place outdoors

Challenges for newcomers in establishing friendships

Language and cultural barriers

The most commonly cited factor limiting the opportunities and depth of interaction between peers is newcomers' lack of English language skills. However, behind this simple problem lie complex psychological, social, and cultural factors.

Research shows that newcomers often feel uncomfortable and anxious when talking to Canadians. Similarly, Canadians also feel that they do not know what to say to newcomers or are worried that they might say something wrong.

Social isolation and loneliness

Statistics reveal a serious problem: recent immigrants report an average loneliness score of 1.49, which is higher than that of Canadians (1.36). Long-term immigrants have a similarly high score of 1.50.

Compared to the general population, immigrants have higher rates of loneliness, which can lead to stress, anxiety, and physical health problems. Importantly, loneliness does not decrease with length of residence in Canada, indicating structural problems in the social integration process.

Discrimination and prejudice

Despite official multiculturalism policies, discrimination remains a barrier to social integration. Studies show that 16% of racial minorities among newcomers report discrimination in accessing settlement services.

Particularly vulnerable groups include:

  • Women (higher rates of loneliness)
  • Older people
  • Visible minorities
  • Refugees

Schoolchildren and young people: special integration challenges

Research in secondary schools

Research conducted in three secondary schools in Calgary revealed important findings about the social integration of young newcomers. Despite the strong motivation of newcomer students to connect socially with local students, several barriers prevent this from happening.

The main obstacles include:

  • Insufficient English language skills
  • Lack of confidence to talk to local students
  • Preference to interact with other newcomers because of their shared status and experience
  • Belief that local students are not interested in them or are intolerant of their language difficulties

The “clique” phenomenon

It is interesting to note that some international students first encountered the phenomenon of social “cliques” in Canadian schools. As one 12th grade student noted:

“I learned about cliques for the first time in Canada... I have lived in many countries, such as Tunisia, Nigeria, and Algeria... but I had never encountered cliques before. It was very unique.”

Successful strategies for social integration

Community organizations and volunteering

Participating in volunteer organizations is one of the most effective ways to establish connections. Organizations such as the YMCA offer affordable programs for different age groups where newcomers can meet like-minded people.

Settlement agencies play a key role by providing not only practical assistance but also programs that help newcomers and their families build relationships with their new community.

Digital platforms and social media

Digital platforms have revolutionized the way newcomers integrate. Platforms such as Meetup, Bumble BFF, and Eventbrite provide invaluable opportunities to participate in local events.

Social networks such as Facebook, Reddit, and local forums offer constant updates on community events and useful tips for newcomers.

Sports and leisure activities

Canadians lead very active lifestyles and participate in a variety of sports throughout the year. Joining sports leagues, world-class ski resorts, and water sports can be a great way for newcomers to socialize.

The role of multiculturalism in social integration

Multiculturalism policy

Canadian multiculturalism has been an official policy since 1971 and aims to preserve and develop the cultural characteristics of each nationality in society. This policy has created a framework for newcomers to maintain elements of their culture and traditions while participating in the mainstream life of the country.

Research shows that multiculturalism has been largely successful in achieving its two main goals:

  • Promoting the social and political integration of ethnic and racial minorities
  • Creating a more inclusive sense of Canadian identity and culture

Practical results

Indicators of the success of multiculturalism include:

  • Increased naturalization rates among immigrants
  • Increased interethnic marriage rates
  • Increased political participation
  • Improved proficiency in official languages

Approximately 85% of those eligible for citizenship become citizens. Voting, volunteering, and charitable activity rates among immigrants are comparable to those of native-born Canadians.

Experience of the Ukrainian community in Canada

Historical context

The Ukrainian-speaking diaspora in Canada has existed for over a century and has created an extensive network of Ukrainian-speaking communities. This makes Canada particularly attractive to Ukrainian newcomers, as they can count on the support of an established community.

Current challenges and successes

Over the past year, more than 130,000 Ukrainian citizens have arrived in Canada — the largest influx in history. Canada's CUAET simplified visa program and numerous volunteer groups have provided support for Ukrainian newcomers.

Success stories demonstrate the effectiveness of the Canadian support system. For example, Inna, who arrived from Ukraine in March 2023, was able to find a host family, get a job, and start a new life in safety thanks to the help of Good Neighbors Canada.

Another story is about Anna and Anton, who arrived in Calgary with only a backpack. Thanks to the support of Gateway and ISC, they were able to find housing, learn the language, and integrate into the community. Anna even became a customer service representative at ISC, helping other newcomers.

Systemic issues and recommendations

Shortcomings of the current system

Research shows that social integration of immigrants is limited in Canada and does not improve over time. Even after more than ten years of living in the country, immigrants do not integrate into society as well as native Canadians.

Key systemic issues:

  • Insufficient focus on social and emotional integration compared to economic integration
  • Lack of structured programs to promote intercultural friendship
  • Limited training for teachers and adaptation service workers on racism and discrimination

Recommendations for improvement

For educational institutions:

  • Hold discussions and lessons that highlight intercultural relations
  • Organize group activities where newcomers can demonstrate their skills
  • Intentionally bring together local students and newcomers in groups

For community organizations:

  • Develop anti-discrimination policies
  • Provide cultural competence training for staff
  • Create targeted programs to support particularly vulnerable groups of newcomers

For government agencies:

  • Increasing funding for social integration
  • Improving coordination between different levels of government
  • Developing programs that take into account the intersecting identities of newcomers

Future prospects and conclusions

Balancing challenges and opportunities

Canada is at a crossroads with regard to its immigration policy. On the one hand, there are growing concerns about the number of newcomers and the pressure on housing and public services. On the other hand, the country continues to need immigrants for economic growth and to address demographic challenges.

The key to success lies in addressing the root causes of concerns while preserving Canada's values of openness and multiculturalism. This includes:

  • Improving housing policy
  • Strengthening public services
  • Investing in social integration programs

The importance of a two-way approach

Social integration is a two-way process that requires effort from both newcomers and the host society. Research shows that the most successful outcomes are achieved when both sides actively work to build connections.

For newcomers, it is important to:

  • Participate actively in community life
  • Learn languages and cultural norms
  • Remain open to new experiences

For Canadians, it is important to:

  • Be patient and understanding

  • Participate in intercultural events

  • Support inclusive policies and programs

Final thoughts

Are Canadians open to meeting newcomers? The answer is complex and multifaceted. Overall, Canadians demonstrate a higher level of acceptance of newcomers compared to many other countries, but significant challenges remain.

Positive aspects include:

  • Historically high levels of support for multiculturalism
  • Effective adaptation and support programs
  • Numerous successful integration stories
  • A culture of “Canadian kindness” and hospitality

Challenges include:

  • Growing concerns about immigration levels
  • Structural barriers to deep social integration
  • Problems of loneliness and discrimination among newcomers
  • Insufficient attention to the emotional and social aspects of integration

The success of social integration in Canada depends on continued investment in programs that foster genuine connections between newcomers and local residents, while addressing the structural issues that create barriers to full participation in Canadian society.

Canada has all the tools to remain a world leader in welcoming and integrating newcomers, but this requires ongoing attention, resources, and commitment from all levels of society.