What Canadians Really Think About Immigration in 2026 — The Data Might Surprise You

The Environics Institute and Toronto Metropolitan University just released the Diversity in Canada Study 2026, based on a survey of 6,818 adult Canadians conducted this past spring. It's the most detailed look yet at how Canadians feel about multiculturalism, diversity, and immigration — and for anyone navigating the immigration process right now, a few findings stand out.

Concern about numbers isn't the same as opposition to immigration itself.

Yes, 71% of Canadians currently say there's too much immigration to the country. But dig deeper and the picture shifts: 60% still agree Canada should be a country that "fully welcomes immigrants from all over the world." Only about one in five Canadians hold wholly negative views on both questions — most people who worry about volume still support the underlying idea of an open, welcoming Canada.

Skills matter more than where you're from.

This is the stat that should matter most to prospective immigrants: by a four-to-one margin (65% vs. 15%), Canadians prefer that the country select immigrants based on education and skills — regardless of country of origin — rather than favouring some nations over others. This preference holds even among white Canadians and non-immigrants, who back the human-capital approach by the same four-to-one margin. In other words, the merit-based, skills-first framework that underpins pathways like PNP entrepreneur streams and LMIA-supported work permits isn't just government policy — it's what the public actually wants.

Newcomers report feeling welcome.

Among immigrants who arrived in the last 10 years, 91% say they and their family have been made to feel welcome in their local community, including 33% who felt "very welcome." A majority of Canadians also describe their own neighbourhood as welcoming to people from all backgrounds.

Multiculturalism still has broad support.

66% of Canadians agree multiculturalism has contributed positively to Canadian identity, and 87% agree no one should face discrimination based on who they are or where they're from. Even among Canadians who currently hold more negative views on immigration levels, about three in five still see multiculturalism positively.

The bottom line:

Canada's public mood on immigration is more textured than "for" or "against." People are anxious about volume and affordability, not about welcoming skilled newcomers or living in a diverse society. If your immigration strategy is built on genuine skills, education, and the "significant benefit" you bring to Canada, the data suggests you're aligned with where most Canadians actually stand. Thinking about your own pathway to Canada? Book a consultation with DC Immigration to build a strategy grounded in what actually works — not headlines. Visit dc-immigration.ca to get started.

Source:
Environics Institute for Survey Research & Toronto Metropolitan University, "Canadian Perspectives on Multiculturalism and Diversity," Diversity in Canada Study 2026.

Disclaimer:
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration policies change frequently. Consult a regulated Canadian immigration consultant (RCIC) for advice specific to your situation.