Due to its demographic and economic circumstances, immigration matters more to Atlantic Canada than ever before. The region’s population growth is forecast to remain flat through to 2035 and the growing wave of retiring baby boomers means its workforce will decline sharply. These trends could place a tremendous strain on Atlantic Canada’s economy unless prudent policy measures are taken to alleviate their negative effects.

This report focuses on immigration as a key policy lever that can help support the region’s prosperity. It draws from a literature and data analysis and the findings of 22 interviews conducted with officials from the three levels of government, the immigrant settlement sector, business groups, and the post-secondary education sector. The report evaluates why the Atlantic region needs immigrants, its immigration trends and issues, and the new Atlantic Immigration Pilot and offers suggestions to support improvements to the region’s immigrant attraction and retention efforts.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Chapter 1–Introduction

• Report Overview

Chapter 2–The Atlantic Immigration Imperative

• Demography’s Double Jeopardy
• Looking Ahead
• Conclusion

Chapter 3–Immigration Trends and Issues

• Immigration Trends and Issues
• Current Immigration Initiatives
• Immigration Statistics
• Retention Statistics
• Understanding Atlantic Canada’s Immigration Push-and-Pull Factors
• Conclusion

Chapter 4–The Atlantic Immigration Pilot

• Background on the AIP
• Early Thoughts
• Employer Experience
• SPO Perspectives
• Future Considerations
• Conclusion

Chapter 5–Immigration Policy Suggestions

• Raise Public and Employer Awareness
• Promote Life in Atlantic Canada
• Attract to Retain
• Prioritize Temporary Residents
• Conclusion

Chapter 6–Toward a Prosperous Future

Appendix A–Bibliography