Québec, July 18, 2023. – Persons from visible minorities often have lower employment rates and employment income than the rest of the population, regardless of their age group, gender, educational level, immigrant status, time since immigration (if applicable), or population group. Nevertheless, the gaps have narrowed for these two key labour market indicators between 2016 and 2021. These findings come from the publication Portrait des personnes issues de minorités visibles sur le marché du travail au Québec en 2021 released today by the Institut de la statistique du Québec.
Employment rates of persons from visible minorities generally higher in Québec than in Ontario
Among those aged 25 to 64, the employment rate of persons from visible minorities living in Québec was 73.6%, while this rate was 76.9% for the rest of the population in the same age group. The employment rate of persons from visible minorities is higher in Québec than in Ontario (70.1%). However, it is similar to that observed in British Columbia (73.8%).
In Québec, the employment rates of persons who are Black (78.8%), Arab (70.8%), and Latin American (76.2%) are higher than those observed in Ontario (68.8%, 57.4% and 71.4%, respectively).
Educational level and employment rates
Employment rates among persons from visible minorities aged 25-64 with post-secondary education range from 67% (Chinese persons) to 81% (Black persons). By comparison, in the rest of the population, the employment rate of persons aged 25-64 with this level of education is 81%.
Regarding the university-educated, the highest employment rates are observed among Black persons (85.1%) and persons who are not part of a visible minority (86.1%).
Employment rate gap wider for recent immigrants
The employment rate gap between immigrants from visible minorities and immigrants not from visible minorities is generally wider for those who immigrated recently than for those who have been living in Québec longer.
| Immigrants from visible minorities | Immigrants not from visible minorities | |
| Immigrated between 2016 and 2021 | 67,3 % | 77,4 % |
| IImmigrated between 2001 and 2010 | 76,1 % | 83,8 % |
| Immigrated between 1991 and 2000 | 72,1 % | 77,3 % |
| Immigrated before 1980 | 69,1 % | 67,1 % |
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Among non-immigrants, the employment rate of persons from visible minorities (78%) is similar to that of persons not from visible minorities (77%).
Employment income gap between persons from visible minorities and the rest of the population
In 2019, in Québec, the average employment income of persons from visible minorities aged 25 to 64 was approximately $43,840. By comparison, the average employment income of persons not from visible minorities was about $56,350, a 22% difference. In 2015, the income gap was 28%. These gaps do not take into account differences in age, education, time since immigration, experience, seniority, working hours, job type, or occupation.
The analysis released by the Institut also provides comparisons between women and men and between various age groups.
The Institut de la statistique du Québec produces, analyzes and disseminates official, objective and quality statistical information on various aspects of Québec society. It is responsible for conducting all statistical surveys of general interest. The relevance of its work makes it a strategic ally for decision makers and all those wishing to learn more about Québec