Remittance Behaviour of Chinese and Indian Immigrants in Canada

Abstract

AbstractUsing the Longitudinal Survey of Immigrants in Canada (LSIC) dataset, we explore the differences in remittance behaviour of Chinese and Indian immigrants in Canada in relation to their socio-economic characteristics. We apply logistic regressions on the likelihood to remit, and instrumental variable regressions to estimate the amount remitted. We find that age, income, level of education, and personal investment in the home country are important determinants of the remittance behaviour of Chinese immigrants in Canada. Marital status, having family members, and involvement with ethnic organizations in the host country are the major drivers of remittances sent by Indian immigrants in Canada. By analyzing the remittance behaviour of Canadian immigrants from two major sources, this study sheds light on potential motivations to remit which contribute to policy formulation in both home and host countries.