Today the ICC is publishing new research exploring immigrants’ perceptions of Canadian citizenship.
Our analysis combines survey and interview data from newcomers participating in the Canoo Access Pass who shared their perspectives on Canadian citizenship and the various factors that influence their views on whether to naturalize.
To read the full report, click here.
While a majority of the permanent residents (PRs) surveyed express positive views on Canadian citizenship and either intend to apply or have already done so, a significant 21% remain uncertain or reluctant to apply. Through in-depth follow-up interviews with 40 respondents, we found the following factors play a role in shaping newcomers’ views on naturalization:
In response to these findings, the ICC proposes the following recommendations to increase newcomer access and improve Canada’s citizenship program overall:
1. Establish Meaningful Naturalization Targets: Set ambitious yet achievable benchmarks for PRs to obtain citizenship within a specified timeframe, fostering a sense of purpose and belonging.
2. Enhance Accessibility of Citizenship Ceremonies: Make citizenship ceremonies more inclusive and publicly accessible, celebrating the diverse tapestry of Canadian identity.
3. Invest in Citizenship Promotion Programs: Allocate resources to initiatives that promote citizenship awareness and engagement, empowering newcomers to embrace their Canadian identity.
4. Prioritize Immigrant Satisfaction and Retention: Uphold immigrant satisfaction as a cornerstone of national policy, nurturing a welcoming environment that encourages long-term residency and civic participation.
Interested in following us? Please sign up here for more updates from Ideas & Insights at ICC. You can learn more about the ICC here.
Stay in touch by signing up for our newsletter.
ICC Insights
OTHER ARTICLES/VIDEOS/PODCASTS/RESOURCES
What’s New with Canoo?
31.05.2024
We're delighted to share exciting updates about the Canoo program, which have been made possible by your generous support. For the first time in Canoo's 12-year history, we have transformed our 1-year membership for newcomers into a multi-year program.
Article
Donors
Interview: Åsa Wikforss on disinformation, COVID-19, and counteracting polarization
30.03.2020
A few weeks after she took part in 6 Degrees Berlin 2020, the 6 Degrees team sat down with Åsa Wikforss to talk more about dis- and misinformation in the […]
Article
ICC Insights
Meet Canoo Member Yoradyl Anne Cuaresma
20.12.2021
Meet Yoradyl Anne Cuaresma, a Canoo member, and get an insight into how Canoo has allowed her and her family to visit fascinating places around Canada.
Article
Canoo
The Institute for Canadian Citizenship is committed to ensuring equal access and participation for all people. We strive to provide events and services that are welcoming and accessible to everyone. Should you require an accommodation to better support your interactions with us, please email info@inclusion.ca.
LEARN MORE
© 2022 Institute for Canadian Citizenship / Registered Charity Number: 82303 4145 RR0001
