Ontario continues to be Canada’s most diverse and populous province, attracting immigrants from around the world. According to 2021 data, 4,206,585 people living in Ontario were born outside of Canada, making up a significant portion of the province’s population. The diversity of Ontario’s immigrant community reflects both historical migration patterns and more recent global immigration trends.
India tops the list, accounting for nearly 12% of all immigrants in Ontario, followed by China and the Philippines. These figures highlight the growing influence of South and East Asian communities in the cultural and economic landscape of the province.
Ontario’s Multicultural Landscape
Ontario’s immigration patterns reflect global mobility trends, with large communities from Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, and North America. The province’s welcoming environment, strong job market, and family reunification policies continue to make it a top destination for newcomers. The cultural vibrancy of cities like Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, and Ottawa owes much to this rich and diverse immigrant population.
Countries of Birth for Ontario’s Immigrants:
| Country | Number of Immigrants | % | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immigrant population | 4,206,585 | 100.0 | … |
| India | 495,750 | 11.8 | 1 |
| China | 355,955 | 8.5 | 2 |
| Philippines | 268,575 | 6.4 | 3 |
| United Kingdom | 239,485 | 5.7 | 4 |
| Pakistan | 165,530 | 3.9 | 5 |
| Italy | 135,640 | 3.2 | 6 |
| Jamaica | 122,770 | 2.9 | 7 |
| Sri Lanka | 112,730 | 2.7 | 8 |
| United States of America | 111,390 | 2.6 | 9 |
| Hong Kong | 108,480 | 2.6 | 10 |
FAQ
India is the top country of birth for immigrants in Ontario, followed by China and the Philippines.
As of 2021, there are 4,206,585 immigrants living in Ontario.
Immigrants make up a significant portion of Ontario’s population, with over 4.2 million people born outside of Canada.
The United Kingdom and Italy are among the top European countries of origin for immigrants in Ontario.
Yes, the United States ranks 9th, with 111,390 immigrants residing in Ontario.
Source:
Statistics Canada. Focus on Geography Series, 2021 Census of Population

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