According to data from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), India has been the top country of origin for new Canadian citizens since 2005, with 536,279 individuals gaining citizenship. Nigeria also ranks significantly, with over 71,459 Nigerians becoming Canadian citizens between 2005 and 2024, placing Nigeria 10th among the countries of birth for new Canadian citizens.
This data highlights the diversity of Canada’s new citizen population, with new Canadians originating from at least 196 countries and territories. However, nearly half of the new citizens come from the top 10 countries of origin.
Political sociologist and migration expert Irene Bloemraad emphasized the benefits of high citizenship levels, noting a correlation between holding citizenship and better economic outcomes, a greater sense of belonging to Canada, and the ability to participate in elections and influence policy.
“Canada stands out among other immigrant-receiving countries in the very high level of citizenship among immigrants in the country. High levels of citizenship are a good thing: research shows a correlation between holding citizenship and better economic outcomes, a greater sense of belonging to Canada and, of course, the ability to participate in elections and have a say in policy,” Bloemraad said .