The 2006 Angus Reid World Poll

Mario Canseco and Gabriela Perdomo - The Angus Reid World Poll conducted for Maclean's found that the United States, despite its tough immigration standards and innumerable security regulations implemented after 9/11, remains the most attractive destination for prospective immigrants. 14 per cent of respondents in 19 countries said that they would choose the United States if they could live in any country.

Australia was second on the global list with 12 per cent, followed by Canada with 10 per cent. No other country reached double digits. Respondents were allowed to choose any nation or territory they wanted for resettlement, except their own.

The countries where the U.S. ranked highest as a possible destination were Israel with 32 per cent, Lebanon with 25 per cent, India with 21 per cent, and Saudi Arabia with 20 per cent. The U.S. population reached 300 million in October 2006, and 40 per cent of the country's demographic growth comes from immigration.

Immigration, particularly illegal immigration, is one of the top domestic issues in the U.S. This year, the legislative branch discussed several bills in order to create a more comprehensive and effective immigration system. Among the plans are to set higher fees for aspiring immigrants—to up to $800 U.S.—and conduct the entire process exclusively online. Pro-immigration groups see the measure as a way to filter out poorer applicants, especially those coming from Central and South American countries.

Australia was the favourite destination for respondents in Japan with 23 per cent, India and South Africa with 20 per cent each, Britain with 19 per cent, and Canada and the U.S. with 18 per cent each. More than 100,000 immigrants relocate to Australia every year under two categories. The migration program allows skilled workers or persons sponsored by a family member to apply for permanent residence. The humanitarian program is designed to assist refugees and people who require protection. In addition, citizens of New Zealand can live and work in Australia under the terms of the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement.

In December 2005, a series of clashes—motivated by racial tension and involving mostly inebriated youths—took place at Sydney's Cronulla Beach. The riots were allegedly sparked by an attack on two life guards by a group of men described as being of Lebanese descent. This year, Australian prime minister John Howard voiced his support for increasing the waiting period for citizenship from three to four years, and requiring that people who become Australian citizens have a working knowledge of English.

Canada was the overwhelming choice for French respondents with 21 per cent, followed by South Koreans with 18 per cent, Australians with 17 per cent, and Indians and Lebanese with 15 per cent each.

Foreign-born residents account for almost 18 per cent of Canada's total population. Canada has been described as a particularly inviting country, openly encouraging foreigners to submit applications to immigrate. The government's guidelines are designed to attract skilled workers who can contribute to the nation's economic growth. Canada also has a humanitarian program to welcome refugees and their families.

Mexicans placed Spain at the top of their wish list with 16 per cent, followed by the U.S. with 15 per cent. The construction of a new 1,100-kilometre barrier along the U.S.-Mexico border, already approved by Washington's legislators, was discussed thoroughly over the past few months in Mexico. President Vicente Fox has called it a "racist" measure. A proposal to create a temporary worker program for illegal immigrants who are already in the U.S. has not been finalized by the U.S. Congress.

Russians are mostly interested in migration to European countries. Only 5 per cent expressed a preference for the U.S., and only 1 per cent chose Canada. Chinese respondents were almost evenly divided among three countries, with 13 per cent choosing Australia, 12 per cent picking the U.S., and a further 12 per cent preferring Canada.

Britain did not fare particularly well in the world ranking, as 11 per cent of South Africans and 10 per cent of Australians chose it as a possible destination. Americans, Canadians and Israelis were next with 9 per cent.

Methodology (PDF)

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