Canadians who missed census can expect calls and home visits

Statistics Canada says Canadians who have not yet completed the mandatory 2026 census questionnaire may soon receive a phone call or an in-person visit from census workers.

In a press release issued Tuesday, the agency said “census enumerators will begin contacting households from which a completed questionnaire has not yet been received. In addition to phone follow-ups, they will also start going door to door in communities across Canada.”

Statistics Canada said the follow-up efforts are “intended to remind residents to complete the census and to offer assistance.”

The agency said thousands of census enumerators have been hired across the country to help collect information.

“Enumerators can help respondents complete the questionnaire in person if they have not yet done so or are unable to complete it on their own,” the statement added.

Millions of Canadians have already submitted their census forms online, by phone or on paper.

Officials previously encouraged residents to complete the questionnaire by 12 May, although Statistics Canada later clarified to Global News that the date was “a reference date rather than a deadline.”

Canadians who refuse to complete the census could face fines ranging from $500 to $1,000.

Residents concerned about the legitimacy of census workers can verify their identity through the Census Help Line.

Statistics Canada said employees will carry official identification cards with their name, employment number and photograph.