Why Participating in the National Census Is Your Choice

There are three ways to provide information about yourself to the government. However, you can choose to ignore all of them.

What Is the National Census?

The national census is currently taking place from October 15 to November 14. Originally scheduled for autumn 2020, it was postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

You can participate in the census through three methods:

1. Wait for the census taker to visit. They will wear a blue vest, a blue scarf, and carry a bag with official census logos. They will ask questions and record your answers.
2. Complete the questionnaire online via the government services portal. This option is available until November 8. However, a census taker will still need to verify your participation by scanning a QR code you receive upon submission.
3. Visit a census station in person if you prefer to participate without opening your door to strangers.

Is Participation in the Census Mandatory?

No, participation is voluntary. While the law describes the census as a civic duty, there are no penalties for choosing not to participate.

In 2015, there was a proposal to impose fines ranging from $1 to $4 for non-participation, but it was not approved. So, you can still opt out without facing any consequences.

Even if you decline, basic demographic data such as your age and gender will still be included in statistics through administrative records.

Are You Required to Provide All Information to the Census Taker?

Many people hesitate to participate due to concerns about how their information might be used. The law prohibits misuse of census data, but it’s natural to be cautious.

Census takers do not record personal identification details like passport numbers. They may ask for your name to avoid duplicate interviews, but you are not required to verify this with documents. Even if you provide inaccurate information, such as understating your age, the census taker must record what you say.

You also have the right to skip answering specific questions.

Can You Refuse to Open the Door to the Census Taker?

Yes. No one will force entry. The census must respect your privacy and the sanctity of your home. Whether you refuse because the census taker isn’t wearing a mask or you’re busy, it is within your rights not to open the door.

How to Identify an Official Census Taker and Avoid Scams

An official census taker will only visit before November 14. They will ask questions from the census form and leave afterward. If someone asks you to show documents, enter information on your phone, send text messages, or perform any other suspicious actions, they are likely a scammer.

If you encounter suspicious requests, such as showing your passport, politely refuse. Try to end the conversation and ask the person to leave. You can mention having urgent matters to attend to. If you feel threatened, contact local authorities immediately.

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