Canada Population Growth Slows to 0.5%, Weakest Rate Since World War I

Canada's population grew 0.5% in the 12 months ended July 1, 2026, the slowest pace since 1915-16, Statistics Canada reported on September 23, 2026. The population rose by about 189,000 to 41.8 million. The deceleration follows a post-pandemic immigration surge that drew sharp criticism of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government and prompted policy changes restricting admissions. Non-permanent residents fell by 154,614 to 2.8 million. New immigrant admissions declined for a fourth consecutive year, reflecting lower permanent resident targets. The slowdown has resumed population aging as the number of people in their 20s dropped amid fewer international students. Alberta posted the fastest provincial growth at 1.5%.