Canada population growth hits lowest rate in over a century

Canada is experiencing a significant slowdown in population growth, reaching its weakest rate in over a century. According to Statistics Canada, the population grew by only 0.5 per cent to 41.8 million as of July 1, 2026, the lowest percentage increase since 1915-16.

This demographic shift is largely driven by a reduction in non-permanent residents, including international students and temporary foreign workers, which fell by 154,614 over the year. The number of study permit holders saw the largest decline. Permanent immigration has also slowed for the fourth consecutive year, falling below 400,000 annually for the first time since 2021-22.

In response to these trends, Mark Carney has indicated a preference for a ‘controlled increase’ in population. The federal government aims to bring the proportion of temporary residents down to 5 per cent of the population by the end of next year. Future targets include admitting 385,000 permanent residents this year, with numbers projected at 370,000 for 2027 and 2028.