Study: The category "English and French" in the Census of Population language data

Statistics Canada has released a study on the simultaneous reporting of English and French in the language questions of the Census of Population by official language minority adults. The study, based on data from the 2022 Survey on the Official Language Minority Population, was released on July 16, 2026.

This study matters because it provides insight into the language habits of English-French bilingual individuals, as well as those whose mother tongue is both English and French. The data sheds light on the complexities of language use in Canada, particularly among official language minority populations. Historically, language data from the Census of Population has been used to inform policy and programming related to language rights and bilingualism. This study builds on that tradition, offering a nuanced understanding of the ways in which English and French are used together in Canadian society.

The study focuses on several key groups, including English-French bilingual people, individuals whose mother tongue is both English and French, and those who speak both languages at home on a regular basis. It also examines individuals who have both English and French as their first official language spoken. By exploring these different categories, the study aims to provide a more detailed understanding of the language practices of official language minority adults in Canada. The study is part of the Ethnicity, Language and Immigration Thematic Series publication, and is available to the public.

As Statistics Canada notes, the study entitled "The category 'English and French' in the Census of Population language data: Insights from the 2022 Survey on the Official Language Minority Population" is now available. For more information, individuals can contact Statistics Canada directly.

This study is particularly relevant for newcomers to Canada who are interested in understanding the country's language landscape. Official language minority adults, including those from Quebec and other provinces, may find the study's insights helpful in navigating Canada's bilingual environment. Additionally, individuals from countries where English and French are spoken, such as Belgium or Switzerland, may be interested in the study's findings on language use and bilingualism.

For those interested in learning more about the study, the full report is available on the Statistics Canada website, and can be accessed through the Ethnicity, Language and Immigration Thematic Series publication. Readers can also contact Statistics Canada directly to inquire about the concepts, methods, or data quality of the release.