Canada has announced a major federal hiring drive for 2026, opening 32,000 government job vacancies under the upcoming Statistics Canada Census of Population. The recruitment is open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and valid work permit holders, making it a significant opportunity for temporary residents, including Indian students and professionals already in Canada.

The census jobs are paid, short-term government roles spread across urban, rural, and remote regions. Recruitment for most positions will run from March to July 2026, while some roles in northern and remote communities will begin hiring as early as February 2026.

Check Your Skilled Assessment & Eligibility

Key Highlights of the 2026 Census Hiring Drive

  • Total vacancies: 32,000
  • Employer: Statistics Canada (Federal Government)
  • Minimum hourly wage: Up to CAD 31.32
  • Who can apply: Canadian citizens, PR holders, and valid work permit holders
  • Application deadline: July 31, 2026
  • Training: Mandatory and paid
  • Benefits: Flexible hours and reimbursement for authorized expenses such as mileage and parking

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

Applicants must:
  • Hold Canadian citizenship, permanent residence, or a valid Canadian work permit
  • Be currently residing in Canada with a local address
  • Meet the age of majority (18 or 19, depending on the province)
The application process is online, takes about 10 minutes, and requires two professional references.

Available Positions and Pay

  • Enumerator – CAD 25.87/hour
    • Door-to-door data collection
    • Minimum 20 hours per week
    • Work period: May to July 2026
    • Evening and weekend work required
  • Crew Leader – CAD 31.32/hour
    • Supervises teams of enumerators
    • Around 40 hours per week
    • Work period: March to July 2026

PR Pathway: How These Jobs Can Help

While census jobs are temporary, some roles can support Canada PR goals:
  • Enumerator roles fall under TEER 4 and do not count toward the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
  • Crew Leader roles fall under TEER 2 and do qualify for CEC.
Working as a crew leader for around four months can help candidates accumulate up to 600+ eligible CEC hours, which can be added to existing Canadian work experience under Express Entry.

Why This Matters for Indian Professionals

For Indian students, PGWP holders, and temporary foreign workers, these government jobs offer more than income. They provide official Canadian work experience, exposure to federal operations, and a strong boost toward permanent residency eligibility.

With competitive pay, flexible work conditions, and potential PR benefits, the 2026 Statistics Canada Census hiring drive stands out as one of the most accessible government job opportunities in Canada for temporary residents.

Planning to work in Canada or explore PR pathways? Contact us today to get expert guidance on applying for Canada government jobs and strengthening your PR profile.