Immigrant talent plays a vital role in strengthening Canada’s digital economy and addressing skills shortages. Published in 2016, this report examines immigrants’ contributions to the information and communications technology (ICT) workforce and the barriers to attracting and integrating internationally educated professionals. It outlines recommendations to improve immigration pathways, support inclusive hiring, and help employers make better use of newcomers’ skills and experience.

Key Takeaways

  • At the time of publication, more than 350,000 immigrants held ICT jobs in Canada, representing approximately 40% of employment in these occupations.
  • More than three-quarters of immigrants employed in ICT jobs had an educational background in ICT or science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
  • International competition for talent, immigration processing challenges, skills mismatches, and hiring practices created barriers to attracting and integrating skilled newcomers.
  • The report recommended more responsive immigration pathways and better labour market information to help address shortages in high-demand ICT occupations.
  • Inclusive, skills-based recruitment, targeted opportunities for immigrant women, and continued training could help newcomers enter and advance in the ICT workforce.

Report

 

To cite this report:

Cameron, A. and Faisal, S. (2016). Digital Economy Talent Supply: Immigration Stream. Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC). Ottawa, Canada.

This report was made possible with the generous support of Employment and Social Development Canada.