Ottawa: A majority of Canadians want the country to accept fewer immigrants and temporary residents next year, according to a new Nanos Research survey. The findings come amid growing demands to adjust immigration levels to alleviate increasing pressure on housing, public services, and the economy.
The survey revealed that 52.3 percent of respondents believe Canada should accept fewer immigrants and temporary residents in 2027. Meanwhile, 33.5 percent stated that current numbers should remain about the same, while only 8.4 percent favoured increasing the intake. About 5.9 percent of respondents were unsure.
Canada currently aims to welcome 380,000 new permanent residents alongside 385,000 temporary residents—including workers and students—in 2026. Conducted between October 31 and November 2, the survey highlighted public sentiment regarding future immigration policies. These results closely mirror a similar survey conducted in March, where 52 percent of respondents also favoured reducing immigration numbers.
Opinions varied significantly across regions and demographics. Respondents in the Prairies were the most supportive of lowering immigration levels at 58.3 percent, followed by Ontario at 53.5 percent and Quebec at 53.1 percent. In contrast, British Columbia saw the highest support for maintaining current intake levels, with 41.2 percent in favour.
By age group, 56.4 percent of Canadians aged 35 to 54 and 56 percent of those aged 18 to 34 supported reducing immigration numbers. Among respondents aged 55 and older, 46.6 percent wanted fewer immigrants, while 38.9 percent preferred keeping the numbers unchanged.
