What are the two main categories of immigrants to Canada?

The two main categories of immigrants to Canada are indeed economic immigrants and family class immigrants. This classification is central to Canada's immigration system, which aims to address both economic needs and reunification of families.

Economic immigrants comprise a significant portion of newcomers and include those who possess skills, education, and work experience that fill gaps in the Canadian labor market. Programs like the Express Entry system facilitate the entry of skilled workers based on their ability to contribute to the economy.

Family class immigrants, on the other hand, are individuals sponsored by family members already living in Canada, allowing families to be reunited. This category reflects Canada’s commitment to family reunification as a priority in its immigration policies.

While the other categories such as tourists, temporary workers, asylum seekers, and students are important, they do not encompass the primary structure of the Canadian immigration system focused on long-term settlement. Temporary workers and students are in Canada for limited durations, and while refugees and asylum seekers play a vital humanitarian role, they are not the primary categories of immigrants defined within the broader immigration framework.