Ali Quina, a newcomer from the Philippines, is contemplating a return home after spending 1.5 years in Calgary. Despite her marketing experience and a certificate from the University of Calgary, she has struggled to find a job in her field and currently works part-time as a server, facing financial difficulties. Quina's situation reflects a broader trend among newcomers in Canada, as a recent CBC survey indicates that 40% of newcomers would consider leaving the country. The survey, conducted by Pollara in November 2024 with 1,507 respondents, highlighted homesickness, discrimination, and challenges in the job market as significant reasons for this sentiment [ef8878be].
Migration researcher Robert Falconer notes that while many newcomers express a desire to leave, actual out-migration is expected to remain low. However, temporary foreign workers and international students may be more likely to leave due to recent policy changes affecting their status and opportunities in Canada. Quina plans to make her decision by November 2025, coinciding with the expiration of her work permit [ef8878be].
The challenges faced by newcomers like Quina are not unique to Calgary; they resonate across various Canadian cities where immigrants often encounter barriers in employment, cultural adaptation, and social integration. The experiences of newcomers highlight the need for supportive measures to help them navigate the complexities of settling in a new country [ef8878be].