According to a new nationwide survey, most Canadians believe immigration contributes positively to the country’s development—economically, socially, and demographically. The study, conducted by the Environics Institute, reveals that public opinion on immigration has trended more favorably over the past year, reflecting growing support for inclusive immigration policies in Canada.
Maple News reports that two-thirds (66%) of Canadians now disagree with the notion that immigration levels are too high—a record high since data collection began in 1977. This figure marks a 3% increase from the previous year and highlights a widening consensus across regional and demographic lines.
One notable insight is the significant shift in opinions among Albertans, lower-income households, and first-generation Canadians. In contrast, support continues to be strongest in Atlantic Canada and among highly educated, higher-income individuals. While younger Canadians (ages 18–24) showed a slight dip in support, older Canadians (45 and above) showed a notable 8-point increase in favorable views of immigration.
The survey further shows that more than 56% of Canadians agree that immigration is necessary to increase the country’s population—a critical consideration for one of the world’s lowest birth rates. Support for this idea is highest among first-generation immigrants (71%), racialized communities (66%), Atlantic Canadians (70%), and supporters of Canada’s Liberal (67%) and New Democratic (64%) parties.
Attitudes toward refugees and cultural integration also reveal a shift in public sentiment. A majority of Canadians now reject the belief that many refugees are illegitimate or that newcomers fail to adopt Canadian values. Instead, most Canadians view immigration as enriching the country’s diversity and promoting multiculturalism.
“Perhaps the most striking aspect of this latest trend is that it has taken place all across the country and among all demographic segments of the population,” the Environics Institute noted in its concluding analysis.
This growing acceptance of newcomers comes at a pivotal moment for Canadian immigration policy, as the government continues to rely on immigration to drive population growth, economic resilience, and labor market sustainability. The findings provide encouraging support for ongoing immigration initiatives and reinforce Canada’s reputation as one of the most welcoming nations in the world.
As Canada continues to adapt to shifting global migration dynamics, public consensus on the benefits of immigration may be essential in shaping future immigration strategies and policies.