Canada population growth slows to 0.5%, lowest since World War I

September 23, 2026 at 06:29 PM1 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

Canada's population rose 0.5% in the 12 months to July 1, the slowest pace since World War I, Statistics Canada reported Wednesday. The country added about 189,000 people to reach 41.8 million, while the number of non-permanent residents fell by 154,614 to 2.8 million.

Key Facts

Canada's population increased by 0.5% in the 12-month period ended July 1, the slowest pace since 1915-16.
The population rose by about 189,000 to 41.8 million.
The number of non-permanent residents declined by 154,614 to 2.8 million.
Alberta had the fastest provincial growth rate at 1.5%.

Immigration Policy Shift

The slowdown follows a period of exceptionally strong population growth driven by immigration after the Covid-19 pandemic. That rapid growth, largely reflecting more international students and temporary foreign workers, fueled sharp criticism of former prime minister Justin Trudeau's government. The criticism ultimately led to immigration policy changes aimed at reducing the number of people allowed into the country. The number of new immigrants welcomed to the country declined for a fourth consecutive year, reflecting lower annual targets for permanent resident admission.

Demographic Consequences

The national slowdown in population growth has led to a resumption in population aging. The number of people in their 20s dropped, reflecting fewer international students. Alberta had the fastest growth rate among provinces at 1.5%.