Canada’s population drop reflects souring of attitudes to immigration

Canada's population experienced a rare contraction in the third quarter of this year, marking the largest drop in over five decades. This decline, revealed by Statistics Canada, is primarily attributed to a decrease in international students following government efforts to reduce study permits. The shift comes after a period of rapid population growth fueled by increased immigration to address labor shortages post-pandemic. The current government, led by Mark Carney, has been actively dismantling the previous administration's immigration policies, citing concerns about an "overheated" system. Public opinion on immigration has become increasingly divided, influencing the government's decision to curb the number of newcomers. These policy changes are now demonstrably impacting Canada's population figures.

Canada's population experienced a rare contraction in the third quarter of this year, marking the largest drop in over five decades. This decline, revealed by Statistics Canada, is primarily attributed to a decrease in international students following government efforts to reduce study permits. The shift comes after a period of rapid population growth fueled by increased immigration to address labor shortages post-pandemic. The current government, led by Mark Carney, has been actively dismantling the previous administration's immigration policies, citing concerns about an "overheated" system. Public opinion on immigration has become increasingly divided, influencing the government's decision to curb the number of newcomers. These policy changes are now demonstrably impacting Canada's population figures.

Canada's population has decreased by 0.18% in the last quarter of 2025, according to Statistics Canada, marking the largest decline since 1946. This population drop, amounting to approximately 76,000 people, is attributed to a reduction in non-permanent residents entering the country. The decline follows a period of near-zero population growth. The Canadian government, under Prime Minister Mark Carney, has tightened immigration policies by restricting work and study permits in response to public concerns about strained public services and high living costs. This policy shift reverses the previous administration's efforts, led by Justin Trudeau, to increase immigration to address labor shortages and stimulate the economy.