Comparing recent immigration in the U.S. and Canada

On Behalf of | Feb 18, 2020 | immigration law

One way to look at trends in U.S. immigration is to compare the numbers with other developed countries that offer similar opportunities. A recent report just came out comparing the U.S. numbers to our neighbor to the north, Canada.

This report just looked at legal immigration numbers. Between 2016 and 2018, it found that immigration numbers dropped by 7% in the United States. Analysts suggested that the trend will likely continue into 2020 and may even continue once they have compiled the 2019 numbers.

In Canada, however, the immigration numbers from 2015 to 2019 showed an increase of about 26%. Now, that is a larger span of time than the numbers studied in the U.S., but it is such a clear difference that it’s rather telling.

One reason for it is not just where immigrants choose to go, but the number of immigrants the countries even allow. It’s been on the rise in Canada. They allowed 271,835 people in 2015. By 2021, they aim to increase that number by 78,165, bringing it to a total of 350,000. They have already been increasing it over the years and show no signs of stopping.

What does all of this mean for immigrants coming to America? There are reasons for these declines, including a drop in approvals by the United States and a general tightening of immigration laws. That does not mean it is impossible, but it is more restricted and more difficult than it used to be. As a result, it is very important for those who want to immigrate to know just what steps to take.