Future of work

This research examines the challenges that employers in the GTA face in hiring and retaining skilled immigrants. Immigrants now make up 22% of the workforce, and their representation has increased by 40% over the past five years. Despite this growth—and the critical role that skilled immigrants play in the labour market—difficulties remain. According to a recent report from the Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council, businesses in the GTA have been experiencing losses due to a general shortage of qualified employees.

The research finds that employers often cite diversity and work ethic as key drivers to support their focus on hiring immigrants. However, immigrants themselves continue to face barriers to entering the GTA’s labour market, including difficulties getting their credentials assessed and references verified. Once hired, they also encounter significant obstacles related to language proficiency and the need to adapt to Canadian workplace culture.

The authors note that, to ease transitions, many employers accommodate cultural practices and offer job shadowing. Meanwhile, retention strategies focus on career advancement pathways and inclusive leadership training. Despite this, formal diversity initiatives are uncommon, and many employers are unaware of immigrant-serving organizations that could help.

The report concludes with recommended actions, such as supporting employers in assessing transferable skills, improving outreach to aid recruitment and retention, and removing bias in HR practices. While progress has been made, further improvements are essential to build an inclusive labour market maximizes immigrants’ talents.