Maple News reports that most Canadians see temporary foreign workers (TFWs) as crucial to the national economy, despite growing public concerns over overall immigration levels. These insights stem from a recent Nanos Research poll that reveals a nuanced perspective among Canadians regarding immigration and workforce needs.
Conducted between December 27 and 29, 2023, the survey of over 1,000 Canadians found that more than 80% believe TFWs contribute significantly to Canada’s economic health. This strong endorsement highlights broad public support for the temporary labor programs that continue to address gaps in agriculture, healthcare, hospitality, and trades.
Interestingly, this favorable view on TFWs contrasts with findings from another Nanos poll released in September 2023. That survey showed rising skepticism toward overall immigration levels, with 53% of respondents expressing a desire to see fewer immigrants admitted than the federal government’s targets. A similar pattern was observed in attitudes toward international students, with 55% of respondents advocating for a reduction from the 900,000 projected student permit holders.
This divergence between support for TFWs and concern about overall immigration highlights a growing complexity in public opinion. Canadians appear increasingly discerning about the types of immigration they support, distinguishing between short-term economic contributors and long-term immigration flows.
Amid this backdrop, Canada saw a sharp rise in its population during the third quarter of 2023, gaining more than 430,000 new residents. According to Statistics Canada, approximately 313,000 of these were non-permanent residents arriving on work or study permits—underlining the critical role temporary migration is playing in driving population growth and economic resilience.
The Canadian government continues to balance labor market needs with public sentiment, and the latest poll results suggest that while broader immigration targets may generate debate, programs that directly support the economy—like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program—retain strong public backing.
Maple News will continue to monitor Canada’s evolving immigration landscape as policymakers respond to demographic trends, labor needs, and shifting public opinion.