Embracing Immigrant Talent: Perspectives and Practices of Toronto Region Employers

The employment gap between newcomers and Canadian-born workers has been narrowing over the past decade, but there is still some way to go. Barriers that push skilled immigrants into low-wage jobs and impede their career progression persist. Improvements can be made, and employers have significant power to shape the labour market experiences of immigrant professionals.

In this report, we explore employers’ perspectives and practices related to immigrant integration in Greater Toronto Area (GTA) workplaces. Based on a survey of 500 human resource professionals, hiring managers and equity, diversity and inclusion practitioners in the GTA, as well as 15 in-depth interviews and a document review, the report identifies the attitudes and actions of employers toward immigrant job applicants and employees. It also provides recommendations to help employers create environments and structures that promote equal opportunities for all workers.