Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has announced plans for an October 2026 referendum on immigration policy, marking a significant departure from her previous support for high population growth.

The proposal comes as the province grapples with rapid demographic changes that have strained public services. Smith attributes the shift to federal immigration reforms under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, which moved away from merit-based selection toward increased temporary worker and international student visas.

Alberta's population surged by 600,000 over five years, overwhelming education and healthcare systems. The referendum will ask voters whether to limit newcomer access to provincial services and give Alberta more control over immigration levels.

Immigration lawyer Tara Pandes notes that bureaucratic delays continue to hamper efforts to attract skilled workers despite urgent labour needs.

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