Every five years, Canadians are invited to participate in the Census of Population to help paint a portrait of Canada’s diverse population and the places we live. You, your family and your community benefit from the census. The information you provide will help to ensure that the 2021 Census accurately reflects Canada’s changing society. When you participate in the census, it means better information for your community regarding daycare centres, schools, health care, emergency services, roads, public transportation, employment skills training and residences for senior citizens.
Every dwelling will receive instructions about the census in early May 2021. The easiest way is to complete it online, but like in the past, completing a paper questionnaire or over the phone are also possibilities. The 2021 Census questionnaire will be available online as of May 3, 2021. Completing the online questionnaire is an easy, secure and convenient option that can be used anywhere, anytime.
In order to shape the future of Canada accurately, completing the census is a civic duty as well as a requirement under the Statistics Act. The census enumerates Canadian citizens (by birth or naturalization), landed immigrants, refugee claimants (e.g., asylum seekers), Canadian Foreign Service officers, Canadian Armed Forces members stationed abroad, and persons who hold a work or study permit.
Statistics Canada has adapted its approach to the reality of COVID-19 to ensure that the 2021 Census is conducted in the best and safest way possible. Every Canadian will have the opportunity to be heard and can complete their census questionnaire online, removing the need for in-person visits by census employees. Whenever follow-up activities are required, Statistics Canada will be using practices aligned with the strictest health and safety directives from public health authorities.
Please consult the Census and You article (translated in more than 20 different languages) at LINK for important facts about the 2021 Census.
For answers to frequently asked questions, please visit the census website if you do not have access to the Internet, contact the Census Help Line at 1-855-340-2021. Respondents with access to TTY (a telecommunications device for deaf people) should call 1-833-830-3109.
Canada needs you—complete the census in May!