Alberta to hold referendum on potential secession from Canada

The province of Alberta is scheduled to hold a referendum on October 19, 2026, which could potentially lead to the province seceding from Canada to become an independent nation.

Following recommendations from the Alberta Next Panel, the provincial government will present ten questions to citizens. These questions focus heavily on immigration and the administration of social services. Proposed measures include increasing provincial control over immigration to prioritize economic migration and Albertans, as well as restricting access to provincially-funded programs like healthcare and education to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and those with approved immigration status.

Other proposed ballot items include requiring non-permanent residents to live in Alberta for at least 12 months before qualifying for social support and introducing fees or premiums for non-permanent residents using public services.