An increasing number of businesses and public sector organizations in Ottawa have reflected the diversity of their respective communities by hiring new Canadian immigrants.

According to the 2011 National Household Survey, 200,000 foreign-born permanent residents currently reside in Ottawa, accounting for 23 percent of the city’s population. Statistics Canada projects that this number will rise to 29 percent over the next 20 years.

Immigration has been shown to be a crucial factor in Ottawa’s increasingly diverse population. The National Household Survey has shown that eight out of 10 recent immigrants to the nation’s capital identify themselves as part of the visible minority population. The survey also projects that by 2031, 26 percent of Ottawa’s population will be part of a visible minority group; nearly double the 23 percent recorded in 2011.

Clearly, the capital city is a popular destination for immigrants to Canada. Through Canada’s numerous immigration programs, Ottawa is sure to continue to be a welcoming home for new Canadians.