cCanadian attitudes toward immigration are changing in ways that could reshape future policy decisions and election debates. A national survey released in December 2025 by Innovative Research Group shows a sharp rise in concern around immigration levels, cultural identity, and community safety.

These shifts are not limited to one political group. They cut across regions, genders, and voting histories, pointing to a deeper realignment in how Canadians view national priorities.

Immigration Views Have Hardened Since 2020

The data shows a steady increase in skepticism. In 2025, 54% of Canadians believe immigration threatens traditional customs and values. That number stood at just 38% five years ago.

Key Findings Include

• Only 39% view legal immigration positively
• 61% support making immigration more difficult
• 72% believe the federal government mismanaged intake levels

Housing shortages and strained public services are frequently linked to these views, especially in urban centers.

Political Divides Are Growing Wider

Attitudes vary sharply by political affiliation:

Group	View Immigration as Threat
Conservative supporters	73%
Bloc supporters	75%
Liberal supporters	37%
NDP supporters	33%

While Conservative and Bloc voters lead in concern, dissatisfaction has spread beyond traditional party lines. Even among voters who once supported higher intake levels, support has softened.

Illegal Immigration Perceptions Remain High

Concern around illegal immigration remains unchanged in overall percentage but has grown in intensity.

• 75% see it as a serious issue
• 42% now label it “very serious.”
• Over 70% of Liberal supporters agree it remains a concern

This suggests that the issue has moved from abstract debate to personal relevance for many Canadians.

Crime and Community Safety Are Now Central Issues

Public perception of safety has declined sharply since 2023.

• Net safety scores dropped 14 points
• 17% now feel unsafe in their communities
• Women report higher safety concerns than men

Nearly half of Canadians now rank crime among the country’s top problems, especially those who already feel unsafe in their neighborhoods.

Immigration and Crime Are Now Linked in Public Opinion

A striking 78% believe crime threatens social order, with many directly linking rising crime to population pressures. Among respondents who feel unsafe:

• 64% view crime as both a personal and societal threat
• Crime ranks far higher than economic concerns

This linkage is shaping political messaging ahead of the upcoming federal elections.

What This Means for Immigration Policy

These findings suggest future immigration policies may emphasize:

• Tighter selection criteria
• Regional caps
• Stronger enforcement measures
• Greater focus on housing capacity

Public sentiment now plays a larger role in shaping political platforms.

The shift in Canadian attitudes toward immigration reflects broader anxieties around safety, housing, and cultural change. For newcomers and applicants, this reinforces the need to stay informed and prepared for policy adjustments ahead.

Understanding public sentiment helps applicants anticipate how programs may evolve in the coming years. As public opinion influences immigration policies, staying informed is more important than ever for prospective immigrants and temporary residents. Policy changes often follow shifts in voter sentiment, and being prepared can make all the difference. Consult with ImmigCanada today to explore your immigration options, understand upcoming policy trends, and receive personalized guidance based on Canada’s evolving political and social landscape.