City reminds residents to complete 2026 Census

Census data vital to funding for City services, programs

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed July 10, 2026 2:15 PM

Summary

The deadline for the 2026 Census collection is coming up and the City of Nanaimo is encouraging residents who haven't yet completed theirs to do so before July 31, 2026. Census workers are visiting households and contacting residents by phone in Nanaimo to remind residents to fill theirs out and to provide support to those who may have difficulty in completing one.

The Census is an important collection of information for the City and the community. It takes place every five years and provides vital data for business and economic development, health care and social services and community services.

Having an accurate population count ensures that Nanaimo gets its fair share of funding from the Federal and Provincial governments for various public services and programs. The City also uses information from the Census to plan for new community amenities, parks, recreation services, infrastructure and more.

The questionnaire can be completed online at Census.gc.ca or by calling 1-833-852-2026 or 1-833-830-3109 for TTY support.

Link to Strategic Plan: N/A

Key Points

Census workers are visiting households who have yet to fill out the 2026 Census. They will clearly identify themselves and will have identification with them.
Residents who have yet to do so are encouraged to complete their Census questionnaire to fulfill their legal obligation by July 31, 2026.
Accurate population data from the Census is vital to Nanaimo receiving its fair share of funding from Federal and Provincial governments for public services and programs.
The Census is an important tool the City uses for the purposes of planning for the community.

Quotes

"Completing a Census questionnaire is a key way to make sure our community is represented. As Census workers make their way through our community, please be kind. Let's show them how welcoming of a community Nanaimo really is."

Leonard Krog

Mayor

City of Nanaimo