Here's why the Sikh population in Canada surged to over 7.71 lakh after 1991

In Canada, there's been quite a remarkable increase in the Sikh population since 1991. The most recent census data from 2021 shows that the number of Sikhs in Canada has reached approximately 7.71 lakh, making up about 2.1% of Canada's total population.

This growth in the Sikh community's numbers can be linked to various reasons. It initially began during a challenging period in Punjab, India, which led many Sikhs to seek a better life abroad. Factors like improved job opportunities and better prospects for employment played a big role in this decision. Even today, these factors continue to be the main drivers for Sikhs choosing to move to Canada.

In recent years, there has been a significant influx of Punjabi students, with most of them being Sikhs. These students come to Canada on study visas, and this has contributed to the growing Sikh community in the country.


When we look at the 2021 census data, it gives us a breakdown of the Sikh population in Canada. Out of the 7.71 lakh Sikhs, more than 2.36 lakh (roughly 30%) are Canadian citizens by birth. Additionally, over 4.15 lakh hold permanent resident status, and more than 1.19 lakh are non-permanent residents.

The census data also helps us understand the historical trends of Sikh immigration to Canada. Before 1980, there were 33,535 permanent Sikh residents in the country. From 1980 to 1990, this number increased to 40,440. However, the most significant surge happened between 1991 and 2000 when 88,210 Sikhs became permanent residents. Following that, over 1.11 lakh Sikhs obtained permanent resident status from 2001 to 2010, and more than 1.41 lakh did so from 2011 to 2021.

It's worth noting that Canada traditionally welcomed around three lakh immigrants as permanent residents each year before the Covid-19 pandemic. When we analyze the data from the last decade, it's clear that, on average, approximately 4% of these immigrants each year are Sikhs. This highlights the continued and significant contribution of Sikhs to Canada's diverse and multicultural society.

(With inputs from TOI)