Canadian Anti-Immigrant Sentiment Declines in New Poll

A recent survey indicates that fewer Canadians report concerns regarding current immigration levels.

Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Immigration

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a geometric maple leaf and descending steps, evoking shifting national public opinion on immigration policy. — A new Wisevoter poll finds anti-immigrant sentiment in Canada has dropped by 13 percentage points since March, with 45% of citizens now expressing concern. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe current immigration levels are negatively affecting the cohesion of your local community?

A new poll shows that anti-immigrant sentiment among Canadian adults has decreased by 13 percentage points since March 2025. Currently, 45% of respondents believe there are too many immigrants, down from previous levels.

Why it matters

The shift in public opinion arrives as the federal government prepares to announce new immigration targets for the next three years. This data offers insight into the national mood regarding immigration as policy decisions loom.

The EKOS survey of 1,222 Canadian adults, conducted October 9-15, 2026, reports a national margin of error of ±2.8 percentage points. Concerns are higher in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, where 52% of respondents believe there are too many immigrants.

The players

Federal government

This is the national governing body of Canada that is responsible for establishing immigration levels and presenting the federal budget.

EKOS

This is a Canadian research and consulting firm that conducted the poll of 1,222 adults using their Probit research panel.

The details

While 45% of Canadians suggest immigration levels are too high, 31% believe the current numbers are correct and 13% feel there are not enough. Among those expressing concern, 89% cite the need for shared common values to maintain social cohesion.

March 2025: A previous Leger poll on immigration sentiment was conducted.
October 9-15, 2026: The EKOS poll was conducted.
November 5, 2026: The federal government is expected to present a budget.

Political Context

Critics of current immigration levels often argue that rapid population growth strains infrastructure and housing, a position that informs the ongoing debate surrounding the federal government's annual immigration level announcement. Opposition voices frequently advocate for lower targets to allow public services time to adjust to recent demographic shifts.

The upcoming federal budget and immigration targets could directly influence local housing demand and labour market conditions in your area. Readers may notice these changes reflected in future infrastructure planning and regional service delivery.

The takeaway

Public sentiment regarding immigration levels is shifting as the country prepares for major policy updates. Understanding these trends helps clarify the priorities of the broader electorate as the federal government sets its multi-year agenda.

What happens next

The federal government is expected to announce immigration levels for the next three years in the coming weeks and is scheduled to present a budget on November 5, 2026.