Indo-Canadian Reverse Migration Surges, With Tens of Thousands Departing Canada

A growing number of Indo-Canadians are reportedly considering or actively undertaking re-migration from Canada, a trend that has accelerated in recent years. This phenomenon, noted by observers like author Razib Khan, who stated, "> this is true. multiple indo-canadians who have deeper roots than the recent punjabi jat wave have also brought up re-migration with me. it's bad," reflects a complex interplay of economic pressures and evolving perceptions of life in Canada. The movement, often back to India, signals a shift for a demographic that has historically viewed Canada as a land of opportunity.

Official data indicates a notable increase in departures, with approximately 80,000 to 90,000 immigrants leaving Canada in 2021 and 2022, and an additional 42,000 departing in the first half of 2023. This reverse migration trend reached a two-decade high in 2019. Key drivers include the high cost of living, particularly in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver, and significant challenges in the job market.

Many Indian immigrants, including highly skilled professionals, face underemployment, struggling to find jobs commensurate with their qualifications. This leads some to accept precarious, low-wage positions, a reality sometimes described as a "donkey's life" by young Punjabis. Issues such as credential recognition and the need for "Canadian experience" contribute to these economic hurdles.

Beyond economic factors, some older Indo-Canadians cite cultural incompatibilities, such as discomfort with Canada's LGBT-inclusive education policies or legalized cannabis, as reasons for considering return. Recent Canadian immigration policy shifts, including a 35% cap on international student permits, are also impacting future arrivals, with study permit applications from India declining significantly in late 2023, partly due to diplomatic tensions. However, Master's and Ph.D. students are exempt from this cap.

Despite these challenges, Canada remains a leading destination for Indian immigrants, with over 1.02 million Indian migrants residing in the country as of 2024. Some experts, like retired economic professor Kuldeep Singh, maintain that widespread reverse migration is still largely a "fantasy," as the desire for Canadian citizenship remains strong among many. Nevertheless, the growing discussions and anecdotal evidence, as highlighted by Razib Khan, underscore a changing narrative for some within the Indo-Canadian community.