Canadian immigration poll finds older, well-educated migrants prefer Canada

An analysis of a 148-country Gallup survey by Jack Jedwab, executive director of the Association for Canadian Studies, and Susan Hardwick, a University of Oregon geographer, found that 41 per cent of those aged 15-24 would choose to migrate to the US, compared with only 27 per cent who chose Canada. 

In contrast, 48 per cent of slightly older migrants aged 25-44, would choose Canada over the US.
 
The analysis also found that the US is preferred over Canada by those who have completed elementary education, but among those who have completed secondary education Canada is favoured by 59 per cent to 51 per cent.

The researchers argue that the better-educated may be more disposed to coming because they feel opportunities are stronger in Canada than in the US, and also because they have a greater knowledge of Canada compared to the younger, less educated group.

The difference in education between Canadian and US immigrants may also explain why Canadian immigrants do better financially. In 2006, Canadian immigrants earned an average of CA$44,170  compared with their US counterparts who earned on average CA$34,400.

The researchers also believed the Canadian immigration programs and special assistance agencies could also be a reason for migrants success.

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The Canadian Visa Bureau is an independent consulting company specialising in helping people apply for a Canadian  Visa with the Canadian Embassy.