Non-citizens and Politics

Once we bring up the topic of political participation by non-citizens, people often focus on the risks. They think about the right to participate versus potential conflicts of interest with the country’s sovereignty. But Canadian law takes a different view. Let’s explore how it opens political participation to everyone, including non-citizens, and why this inclusive approach strengthens our democracy.

What Is the Right of Campaigning Based On?

In Canada, political activity is a Charter right. More specifically, it falls under Section 2(b)¹ of the Charter, which protects freedom of expression. To balance this right with the public interest, certain laws, such as the Canada Elections Act², impose limits on some forms of political activity. These restrictions are allowed because Section 1³ of the Charter states that rights are subject to reasonable limits prescribed by law. For a familiar example, the Canada Elections Act restricts the times canvassers can access common areas in multi-unit residential buildings⁴.

Unlike Section 3⁵, which concerns the right to vote and is limited to Canadian citizens, Section 2(b) applies to “everyone.” That means the right to engage in political expression is guaranteed to all individuals, regardless of immigration or citizenship status, unless a specific law imposes limits.

While Canadian laws regulate many different methods of political activity, participation by non-citizens is not prohibited. This legislative approach reflects where Canada is today: voting and running for office are rights reserved for citizens, but expressing political opinions is a right for all.

Wouldn’t Political Participation by Foreign Nationals Weaken Our Sovereignty?

When it comes to regular forms of political participation, the answer is no. According to the Canadian government’s definition of foreign interference⁶, what matters is whose interests the action serves and the methods used, not the nationality of the person involved.

Even if a foreign national participates, it is not considered foreign interference as long as their actions do not align with the methods or goals that qualify as such. Conversely, even Canadian citizens can commit foreign interference if their actions serve foreign interests and involve improper methods.

When someone volunteers for a campaign, they are participating in Canada’s democratic process by supporting the goals of a candidate, who must be a Canadian citizen, or a Canadian federal political party. While their motivations can be complex and may include concerns that also affect their country of origin, what matters under Canadian law is whose interests are being served and whether the methods used are appropriate.

Each campaign and political party in Canada has a code of conduct. As long as volunteers follow these rules, their participation is legal and constructive.

How Does Our Society Address People’s Ties to Other Countries?

Some may argue that non-citizens have ties to their country of origin, making them more likely to act in foreign interests. But is this the right direction? In a country where people from many different backgrounds are building a shared future, this kind of preventive logic can be dangerous. Should we also question those with dual citizenship, or those with family members abroad?

Indeed, Canada has previously imposed restrictions on civil rights based on ethnicity or foreign connections. Examples include the Chinese Immigration Act⁷ and the internment of Japanese Canadians⁸ during World War II. Today, these are considered dark chapters in Canadian history, and various reconciliation efforts have acknowledged the harms they caused.

Canada’s current stance is shaped by these historical lessons, forming the backbone of our shared values.

Inclusive Engagement Makes Our Democracy Stronger

More broadly, an inclusive political environment is one of our best protections against foreign interference.

Foreign nationals do not remain foreign nationals forever. After just three years as a permanent resident⁹, they can apply for citizenship and eventually vote. Excluding them from political life will not prevent this legal transition, but it can limit their understanding of Canadian democracy and reduce their readiness to participate meaningfully once they become voters. Early inclusion helps future citizens learn the norms, values, and responsibilities of democratic engagement and prepares them to contribute fully when they gain the right to vote.

While they live here, it is neither possible nor desirable to control what they say or do. Using strong powers to regulate personal behaviour is not the direction Canada should take, and exclusion only isolates people. Once an ethnic or cultural group becomes isolated, it is far more vulnerable to foreign influence.

People will identify problems in our society regardless of their immigration or citizenship status. In an inclusive society, they can find fellow Canadians who share their concerns, join discussions, and work toward positive change. When they are shut out of that process, they are left without a voice, and isolated individuals are easier to manipulate or exploit.

Encouraging participation allows people to learn by doing, build meaningful relationships, and better understand Canadian democracy. By fostering inclusive engagement, we avoid unnecessary division and keep our democracy resilient and united.

Information Helps People Participate Legally and Appropriately

For all these reasons, political participation by new citizens and non-citizens is important. Providing accurate, accessible information enables them to engage in politics legally and in ways that are accepted in Canadian society.

First, while everyone in Canada can participate in politics, certain restrictions apply depending on immigration and citizenship status. It is essential that individuals understand these limits. Making this information widely available helps ensure participation is both informed and lawful.

Second, connecting with the right people in politics is key. For example, campaign volunteers often learn proper conduct through campaign codes of conduct and from fellow Canadians. They see firsthand what appropriate political activity looks like in Canada. To support this process, it is important to share clear information about typical campaign activities, demonstrate ways to connect with the right community, and explain how newcomers can participate responsibly and effectively.

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