A new poll highlights a generational divide in how Canadians view immigration. Younger Canadians are far more positive about immigration’s impact, while most Canadians across all age groups recognise that immigrants make the country stronger. These findings come as the federal government has moved to reduce both temporary and permanent immigration levels, raising questions about how public opinion will shape future policy.
On This Page You Will Find
- Why young Canadians are more positive about immigration
- The national view on immigrants’ contributions
- Details of Canada’s 2025 immigration reductions
- The generational divide shaping future policy
- What these findings mean for Canada’s future
Younger Canadians More Supportive
Canadians aged 18–34 are the most likely to see immigration as a positive force. According to the survey, nearly half of respondents in this group believe immigration has a mostly positive effect, and about one in four would like to see immigration levels increased.
By contrast, Canadians aged 55 and over take a more cautious view. A majority in this group said immigration levels should decrease, reflecting concerns about housing affordability, pressure on public services, and cultural change. The 35–54 group sits in between, with mixed opinions about whether immigration should grow or shrink.
The chart above shows the breakdown by age group. Support for increasing immigration is strongest among the youngest Canadians, while older groups are more likely to favour reductions.
Majority Believe Immigrants Strengthen Canada
Despite the divide on immigration levels, Canadians are united in their recognition of immigrants’ contributions. Two-thirds of respondents either strongly or moderately agree that the hard work and talent of immigrants make Canada better.
This view is especially strong among younger Canadians, East Asian and South Asian communities, and supporters of the Liberal and New Democratic parties. Even among those calling for lower immigration levels, many still acknowledge that newcomers bring skills, diversity, and energy that benefit the economy and enrich Canadian society.
Immigration Reductions in 2025
The poll was released shortly after Ottawa announced major adjustments to immigration policy. In 2025, the government reduced annual permanent resident targets from 500,000 to 395,000 and introduced new restrictions on temporary residents, including international students and work permit holders.
The moves were intended to ease pressure on housing and healthcare systems and to respond to growing public debate about whether Canada can sustain historically high levels of newcomers. However, these cuts have also created uncertainty for prospective immigrants and raised concerns from business groups worried about labour shortages.
Generational Divide and Policy Tensions
The generational differences highlighted in the poll suggest that immigration attitudes could shift further in the future. Younger Canadians, who are more supportive of higher levels and more likely to see immigration as positive, will play a growing role in shaping policy debates as they make up a larger share of voters.
At the same time, policymakers must balance this optimism with the concerns of older Canadians, many of whom feel Canada’s infrastructure and housing market cannot keep up with high immigration numbers. The tension between these views will shape Canada’s immigration system in the years ahead.
A Mixed but Optimistic Outlook
Canada’s immigration debate is increasingly complex, reflecting generational, regional, and political differences. Yet the shared belief that immigrants strengthen the country offers common ground. It suggests that even amid reductions to immigration targets, most Canadians see newcomers as an essential part of the nation’s future.
FAQ
Why are young Canadians more supportive of immigration?
Young people are more likely to benefit from multicultural education, workplaces, and friendships. They also see immigration as a way to fill job gaps and keep Canada’s economy growing.
What recent immigration changes has Canada made?
In 2025, the government reduced permanent resident targets to 395,000 and tightened temporary programs, including international students and work permits, to manage housing and healthcare pressures.
Do most Canadians think immigration is good for the country?
Yes. Despite differences over levels, two-thirds of Canadians agree that immigrants’ hard work and talent strengthen the nation. This view crosses age and party lines.
Why do older Canadians want lower immigration levels?
Older Canadians are more likely to be concerned about housing affordability, crowded healthcare systems, and rapid cultural changes. These concerns drive their preference for lower levels.
What does this mean for Canada’s future immigration policy?
The generational divide suggests immigration support may increase over time. While current policies have reduced levels, younger Canadians’ outlook could push for more open policies in the long term.
