Winnipeg 
2026 Census underway in some of the country’s most northern and remote regions, marking the first phase of Canada’s next national population count.
Statistics Canada has started census collection in select communities across the North, with the rest of the country scheduled to follow later. The early start reflects the logistical realities of reaching remote areas and ensures residents have the same opportunity to take part.
The census takes place every five years and is the most detailed source of population data available for many communities. The information collected helps build an accurate picture of who lives in Canada and how communities are changing over time.
In the communities included in the early collection, households will receive a census invitation letter delivered directly by an enumerator. While most respondents are encouraged to complete the questionnaire online, in-person help is available for those who cannot access the digital form. Enumerators can assist residents in completing their census to make sure everyone is counted.
To support accessibility and participation, census questions have been translated into 15 Indigenous languages, allowing respondents to answer in the language they are most comfortable using.
Early collection is limited to specific locations. These include communities in northern Newfoundland and Labrador, northern Quebec, remote parts of Ontario and Manitoba, as well as selected areas in Saskatchewan, Alberta, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories. All communities in Nunavut are part of this early phase.
Residents in communities not included in the early rollout are not being missed. Census collection for the rest of Canada will begin later, following the same process.
A full list of communities involved in early collection has been released so residents can confirm whether census activities have started where they live.
