Alberta Voters Reject Separation but Back Immigration Restrictions in Provincial Referendum
Preliminary results from Alberta's referendum show approximately three-quarters of voters chose to remain in Canada, while four questions on immigration control and restricting public services for temporary residents received majority support. Premier Danielle Smith called the outcome a mandate for reform, drawing criticism from opposition leaders, migrant groups, and business advocates.
Preliminary results from Alberta’s recent provincial referendum indicate that approximately three-quarters of voters chose to remain in Canada. While the separation question was rejected, early counts show majority support for four questions focused on greater provincial control over immigration and restrictions on social services for non-permanent residents.
Premier Danielle Smith stated that the vote provided a "clear mandate" to pursue reforms within Canada's legal and political institutions. She reiterated her commitment to remaining within national frameworks and confirmed she would not hold another referendum on separation during her tenure as premier. The original citizen’s initiative petition calling for a separation vote remains stalled before the courts pending an appeal.
Smith has floated charging temporary residents a $1,900 fee to access public health care. As of the end of 2025, there were approximately 260,000 temporary residents in Alberta, making up about 5.8 per cent of the province’s population.
The referendum faced sharp criticism from opposition figures and advocacy organizations. Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi described the vote as having a "tremendous financial and mental cost," calling it a political exercise designed to save Smith's career. Elections Alberta has not yet released a budget for the referendum but is scheduled to submit it to the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices in November.
Migrant groups expressed alarm over the preliminary results showing broad support for limiting temporary residents' access to public services. Alberta Federation of Labour president Gil McGowan called the referendum a bad faith effort to fan the flames of xenophobia.
Business leaders also raised concerns about potential economic harm and skilled labour shortages if immigration restrictions are implemented. A poll conducted by the Calgary Chamber of Commerce and Abacus Data found that 52 per cent of businesses were not in favour of any changes to current immigration policy.
Immigration lawyer Yameena Ansari noted that provinces have little control over immigration admission criteria as long as they remain part of Canada.
Prime Minister Mark Carney responded to the results by noting that constitutional change is a difficult process, but disputes in areas such as immigration could be resolved without it.
Within Smith's own party, Alberta Prosperity Project co-founder Jeffrey Rath suggested evaluating whether Smith should remain head of the United Conservative Party due to her federalist stance.