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Gujarati’s rise in Canada: A changing linguistic landscape
Data reveals that around 87,900 Gujarati speakers have moved to Canada since 1980.
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Canada’s educational offerings and accessible permanent residency options have made it a favored choice for Gujarati immigrants. / Pinterest/gotirajesh
Canada's immigrant population continues to transform its cultural and linguistic landscape, with Gujarati now ranking as the third most spoken Indian language in the country. Statistics Canada data reveals that Gujarati speakers have surged in numbers, following Punjabi and Hindi as the leading Indian languages spoken by newcomers. This rise reflects broader immigration trends shaped by shifting global visa policies, Canada’s education appeal, and family reunification. The trends highlight both opportunities and challenges as Canada’s policies adjust to a diversifying demographic.
Substantial Growth of the Gujarati-Speaking Community
Data from Statistics Canada reveals that since 1980, approximately 87,900 Gujarati speakers have moved to Canada, with nearly 26 percent of these newcomers arriving in just the last five years. The period between 2016 and 2021 saw 22,935 Gujarati-speaking immigrants settle in Canada, establishing the language as an influential presence. By comparison, Punjabi speakers remain the largest Indian immigrant linguistic group, with 75,475 newcomers, while Hindi speakers have also seen significant growth, totaling 35,170 immigrants.
Canada’s educational offerings and accessible permanent residency options have made it a favored choice for Gujarati immigrants, especially amid stricter immigration regulations in the U.S. and other English-speaking countries. According to immigration consultant Sameer Yadav, “The U.S. was a top choice for years, but challenging visa processes and high costs posed barriers. Canada’s straightforward permanent residency process and comparatively lower educational costs turned it into an appealing option, especially for students.” With a combination of educational and economic opportunities, Canada has emerged as a popular destination for the community.
Canada’s Shifting Immigration Policies: An Impact on Prospective Gujaratis
While Canada has benefited from an influx of Gujarati-speaking immigrants, recent policy changes have introduced challenges for prospective immigrants. A visa consultant in Ahmedabad reported an 80 percent decline in visa applications from Gujarat, attributing this to housing shortages, job market saturation, and tightened permanent residency requirements. These changes have affected students and professionals alike, reducing opportunities for prospective immigrants and increasing competition within Canada’s immigration channels.
Many applications now come from those already residing in Canada and pursuing family reunification rather than new student or professional applicants. The consultant added, “With fewer visa opportunities, inquiries from students and professionals have plummeted, leaving most applications from those already in Canada seeking family reunification.” Canada’s changing policies reflect an evolving immigration landscape, aiming to address economic and housing pressures, though impacting the aspirations of prospective Gujarati immigrants.
Cultural and Linguistic Contributions to Canadian Society
The growing presence of Gujarati speakers highlights Canada’s reputation as a culturally inclusive society. Language and culture have both played pivotal roles in shaping Canada’s social identity, with Punjabi, Hindi, and now Gujarati adding to the nation’s linguistic diversity. Gujarati’s rise as the third most common Indian language among immigrants underscores the community’s influence in arts, business, and academia across Canada, contributing to the multicultural tapestry the country is known for.
Additionally, while Gujarati speakers grow in number, the recent decline in migration among Kutchi speakers, another language group from Gujarat, reflects shifts within the broader linguistic community. For Canada, these demographic changes offer opportunities to strengthen ties with the Indian community while also navigating policy adjustments that reflect the nation’s evolving immigration needs.
In summary, Gujarati’s ascent within Canada’s immigrant linguistic landscape mirrors global immigration trends, reflecting Canada’s appeal as a destination for education, opportunity, and community. The linguistic growth of Gujarati, alongside Punjabi and Hindi, demonstrates the expanding impact of Indian culture and community in Canada, contributing to a more diverse society and posing unique challenges as Canada’s immigration policies adapt to its multicultural reality.
In parallel with Canada's Gujarati community, the United States has seen steady growth in Gujarati immigration, both legal and undocumented. Some tragic incidents have underscored the dangers of undocumented migration. For example, the 2022 tragedy near the U.S.-Canada border resulted in the freezing deaths of a family of four from Gujarat attempting to cross illegally. Such incidents highlight the risks posed by irregular migration pathways, often exploited by human traffickers.
Despite these challenges, the Gujarati community’s presence has grown markedly. The Gujarati diaspora in the U.S. has particularly thrived in business, with Gujaratis owning a significant percentage of America’s motels and hospitality enterprises—a sector that continues to grow. This community has expanded across fields, from technology to retail, contributing to the economic landscape and fostering vibrant cultural centers. With a rising population, the Gujarati community has made an indelible mark on U.S. society, building a close-knit yet diverse network across states like New Jersey, Texas, and California.
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