Maple News reports that a recent federal survey reveals growing caution among Canadians regarding immigration levels—even after the federal government announced a significant cut to its intake targets starting in 2025.
Commissioned by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and conducted in November 2024, the survey found that 54% of Canadians believe there are too many immigrants coming to the country. When presented with the revised 2025 target of 395,000—down from 485,000 in 2024—52% still felt the number was too high.
Even with context that this represents a 20% drop, almost half of respondents continued to express concerns, highlighting how issues such as housing availability, healthcare capacity, and infrastructure strain have become top-of-mind for Canadian residents. Another 39% said the new level felt appropriate, while a smaller 13% viewed it as too low.
This marks a shift in public attitudes around immigration. According to Keith Neuman from the Environics Institute, Canadians have historically focused on where immigrants come from. The current discourse, however, is centered on Canada’s ability to support population growth amid pressure on services.
The federal government has acknowledged these concerns in its updated immigration strategy. Prime Minister Mark Carney, who has named both immigration and housing as national priorities, aims to balance economic needs with sustainable growth. The updated immigration plan will see annual permanent resident targets tapering down each year through 2027—dropping to 380,000 in 2026 and 365,000 in 2027.
A significant portion of new permanent residents in 2025—over 40%—will be selected from individuals already living in Canada on temporary visas. This indicates a strategic shift from drawing newcomers from abroad to transitioning existing residents into permanent immigration pathways.
Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab has reaffirmed that collaboration with provinces and municipalities will be key as the IRCC develops its 2026–2028 plan. The goal is to ensure that long-term immigration levels match Canada’s infrastructure and social support capacity.
Politically, the issue remains contentious. While Liberal and progressive voices continue to advocate for robust immigration, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has called recent population growth “out of control,” pushing for stricter limits. His party’s immigration critic, Michelle Rempel Garner, blames the Liberal government for failing to coordinate immigration with housing and healthcare resources.
Despite these concerns, immigration continues to be viewed positively in local communities. Nearly 50% of respondents said immigrants have had a beneficial impact on their area, suggesting that public opinion, while cautious, remains nuanced.
With immigration becoming a more visible issue ahead of the 2025 federal election, future policy directions may hinge on how effectively Canada addresses the capacity challenges that continue to shape public sentiment.