Recent survey results reveal a growing divide in Canadian views on immigration. A clear majority of Canadians – 60 percent – say Canada does not need new immigrants, according to a Leger poll conducted for the Association for Canadian Studies in August 2025. However, a closer look at the data shows that younger Canadians are more open to immigration, with those aged 18 to 24 offering significantly more support than older age groups.
On This Page You Will Find
- Latest public opinion data on immigration levels in Canada
- Age-based breakdown of support and opposition
- Immigrant vs non-immigrant perspectives
- Provincial variation in attitudes
- Insights on what this means for future immigration policy
These findings reflect broader national debates about population growth, housing, integration, and cultural identity. They also point to a generational shift that may reshape immigration policy in the coming decades.
Canadians Are Growing More Reluctant About Immigration
According to the survey, only 40 percent of Canadians agree that the country needs new immigrants, while 60 percent disagree. That level of disagreement includes 31 percent who say they “strongly disagree” – a sign of firm opposition.
The numbers vary by province, but the national trend holds across the country:
- Ontario: 63% disagree that Canada needs new immigrants
- Alberta: 65% disagree
- Quebec: 61% disagree
- British Columbia: 48% disagree (lowest opposition)
- Atlantic Canada: 56% disagree
This is a notable shift, especially when compared to earlier surveys conducted in the mid-2010s and early 2020s, which consistently showed strong public support for immigration in Canada.
Young Canadians Are More Supportive of Immigration
While most older Canadians oppose new immigration, the youngest cohort – those aged 18 to 24 – are far more supportive. Among this group, 46 percent agree that Canada needs new immigrants, and only 54 percent disagree.
This stands in sharp contrast to middle-aged Canadians:
- Ages 25 to 34: 35% agree, 65% disagree
- Ages 35 to 44: 39% agree, 61% disagree
- Ages 45 to 54: 36% agree, 64% disagree
- Ages 55 to 64: 38% agree, 62% disagree
These results show that support for immigration drops sharply with age. The survey suggests that younger Canadians may have more multicultural experiences, greater exposure to diversity, and more optimism about the role of immigration in Canada’s future.
Immigrants Themselves Are More Positive
Another key finding is the difference between immigrants and non-immigrants. Among respondents who were born outside Canada, 52 percent agree that the country needs more immigrants. Among those born in Canada, only 37 percent agree.
This supports the idea that personal experience with immigration leads to more supportive views – or, at the very least, less opposition. It also highlights the important role immigrants themselves play in shaping attitudes within their communities and families.
What Drives the Opposition?
Several factors may be behind the growing resistance to immigration among older Canadians:
- Housing shortages
- Healthcare system strain
- Cost of living concerns
- Cultural anxiety and integration issues
While these concerns are often raised in political debate and media coverage, the survey also reveals that security fears may be playing a larger role than expected. Respondents who strongly oppose immigration are also more likely to believe that acts of terrorism are increasing in Canada.
This suggests that fear – whether economic, cultural, or security-related – is a driving force in opposition to immigration among older age groups.
Will Attitudes Shift Over Time?
The generational split in the data suggests that attitudes may evolve as younger Canadians become a larger share of the population and workforce. If those under 35 maintain their more open stance, Canada may eventually see renewed public support for immigration.
However, the survey also hints at the influence of life stage and economic pressures. Some younger respondents may become more critical of immigration over time if housing and job concerns worsen.
Still, the data clearly shows that youthful optimism and support for immigration are real and measurable today. This creates opportunities for policymakers to engage younger Canadians in shaping future immigration policy and addressing the challenges newcomers face.
A Country at a Crossroads
Canada has long promoted itself as a welcoming country for immigrants, with policies grounded in multiculturalism and economic opportunity. But the current data shows that this national self-image is under pressure.
The rising opposition to immigration among older Canadians, and the more open attitudes of the youth, place the country at a crossroads. Will public policy reflect the concerns of older generations, or the optimism of the younger ones?
How this question is answered will help determine Canada’s approach to immigration in the coming years – and its identity as a society.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do most Canadians say the country does not need more immigrants?
Many Canadians cite concerns over housing, healthcare, and economic strain. Some also worry about cultural integration and national identity, particularly older adults.
How do young Canadians feel about immigration?
Younger Canadians, especially those aged 18 to 24, are more supportive of new immigration. They tend to be more accepting of cultural diversity and open to Canada’s evolving demographics.
Do immigrants themselves support more immigration?
Yes. Immigrants are more likely than non-immigrants to say that Canada needs new immigrants. Personal experience and empathy likely influence this view.
Is opposition to immigration higher in some provinces?
Yes. Opposition is highest in Alberta and Ontario, and lower in British Columbia. Regional economic pressures and political discourse influence public attitudes.
Will public attitudes on immigration shift in the future?
Possibly. If younger generations retain their supportive views, Canada may see more openness in the future. But shifts in economy or policy could also change public opinion.
