Not all pathways lead to success: How temporary permit type shapes immigrant earnings in Canada

Abstract

This study challenges the assumption that all two-step immigration pathways lead to better labour market integration by showing that outcomes vary significantly by temporary permit type. Using Statistics Canada’s Longitudinal Immigration Database (IMDB), it compares earnings trajectories of four International Mobility Program subgroups with one-step immigrants. Post-graduate work permit holders and intra-company transferees earn more initially, while working holidaymakers earn less and spouses’ outcomes vary by gender. The findings fill a key gap by highlighting permit-specific disparities and can inform government decisions on temporary program design, selection criteria, and forecasts of immigrant economic integration.