Maple News reports that most Canadians continue to see immigration as essential to economic vitality, yet trust in the federal government’s ability to manage the system has declined sharply. These are the key insights from the 2025 Environics Institute Focus Canada survey, conducted in September, which reveals a complex mix of optimism, frustration, and political division over the future of immigration in the country.
A strong majority—70% of Canadians—still agree that immigration is necessary to address labour shortages and support economic growth. Support is particularly high among university-educated Canadians, newcomers, and those aligned with progressive political parties. Despite this, more than half of Canadians (56%) now say immigration levels are too high. This sentiment, however, stems less from opposition to immigrants themselves and more from dissatisfaction with government performance.
According to the report, “poor government management”—not cultural or racial prejudice—is the leading reason people believe immigration levels are excessive. Canadians cite slow application processing, a lack of alignment with housing capacity, and strain on public services as major concerns. These anxieties are particularly strong in Alberta and Quebec, while provinces like Manitoba and Saskatchewan have become more welcoming, with drops in negative sentiment.
Growing political polarisation is sharpening these divides. Among Conservative supporters, 82% believe immigration levels are too high, compared to 40% of Liberals and just 30% of New Democrats. This ideological gap—a historic high—extends to issues like refugee acceptance, crime perceptions, and cultural integration.
Public confidence in Canada’s humanitarian efforts is also under pressure. Forty-three percent of Canadians believe many refugee claims are illegitimate, reflecting a continuing rise in scepticism since 2021. Frustrations with IRCC’s processing timelines and communication have further fuelled these doubts, particularly among older demographics and residents of Quebec and the Atlantic provinces.
Concerns about integration and shared values are also increasing. Sixty percent of respondents say too many immigrants are not adopting Canadian values—a trend seen prominently among residents of Alberta, British Columbia, and Quebec. Although these cultural worries persist, a reassuring 80% of Canadians still believe that newcomers can become equally good citizens as those born in Canada.
Despite national tensions, local outlooks are more positive. Nearly half of Canadians say immigration has a neutral or beneficial impact on their communities. Many highlight the cultural richness, entrepreneurial spirit, and economic dynamism newcomers bring. Negative sentiments, while present, are tied largely to housing and public service strain rather than hostility toward newcomers themselves.
Interestingly, multiculturalism and diversity continue to be central to Canadian identity, identified by 36% of respondents as defining national traits—though this is a slight dip from previous years. Even among those critical of current immigration levels, multiculturalism remains a source of pride.
Looking ahead, the federal government faces a critical test. With the 2026–2029 immigration levels plan expected soon, success will hinge less on the scale of immigration and more on the government’s ability to convince Canadians it can manage intake responsibly. Accelerating processing times, improving coordination with housing and healthcare systems, and transparent communication will be key to restoring trust in the system.
Ultimately, the data shows a pragmatic public that values immigration but demands competence. Canadians are not turning against newcomers—they’re asking for an immigration system that matches the country’s ambitions with the reality on the ground.