UK/Canada – Mutual Recognition of Architectural Qualifications

The UK’s Architects Registration Board (ARB) and Canada’s Regulatory Organizations of Architecture in Canada (ROAC) have signed a mutual recognition agreement (MRA). The MRA streamlines the registration process for eligible architects wishing to practise across both jurisdictions.

James Hutchinson, a Partner at Beale & Co said:

“The mutual recognition agreement will simplify the pathway for architects to qualify between the UK and Canada. Mutual recognition will enhance opportunities for our UK, Canadian and international clients by reducing unnecessary barriers to trade.

We recently opened an office in Toronto and we are able to support our Canadian and international clients with their construction and infrastructure project needs for contract drafting and negotiation, collaborative contract work, project bid/support work, project advisory work and strategic advice on risk management and disputes.”

Who is eligible to use the new route?

Core requirements (both UK and Canadian architects):

• Must be currently registered and in good standing with their home regulator.
• Must meet education, experience and examination requirements as defined by the MRA.

For UK architects applying in Canada:

• Hold ARB-recognised qualifications (including those who passed Prescribed Exams at Parts 1 and/or 2, plus a recognised Part 3).
• Registered with ARB before applying.
• Applications open from 14 May 2025 via ROAC’s professional mobility portal.
• As part of the application process, complete four online modules covering practice areas specific to Canada such as seismic and climate-related code requirements.

For Canadian architects applying in the UK:

• Hold certification from the Canadian Architectural Certification Board.
• Completion of the Internship in Architecture Program and success in the Examination for Architects in Canada or its equivalent exams.
• Must be licensed by a Canadian provincial or territorial regulator and in good standing.
• Apply via ARB’s international routes platform from 14 May 2025.
• Complete the UK Adaptation Assessment (UKAA). All Canada to UK architects must undertake and pass the UKAA in order to demonstrate the ability to practise safely and effectively in the UK.

The registration process

1. Initiate Application: Start with your home regulator (ARB or ROAC) for eligibility confirmation.
2. Verification: Home regulator confirms credentials align with MRA standards.
3. Apply to host regulator: Once verified, submit a formal application to the host regulator.
4. Final checks: Host regulator may request additional documentation, examinations or interviews to ensure compliance with local public protection standards.

Additional Considerations

• Local practice rights: Registration does not exempt architects from complying with jurisdiction-specific business or practice regulations (e.g. corporate licensing in certain Canadian provinces).
• Language requirements: In Canada, proficiency in French may be necessary depending on the province.
• Good standing: Architects must maintain an unblemished regulatory record at the time of application.

What this means for architectural practices

The MRA significantly reduces administrative barriers for architects seeking international opportunities between the UK and Canada. For practices, it facilitates smoother deployment of talent across borders, supporting global project delivery and fostering greater collaboration.

With Canada’s growing infrastructure and development sectors, and the UK’s global architectural influence, this agreement arrives at a pivotal time for firms looking to expand their reach.

Next steps and resources

• UK Architects: Visit the ARB’s MRA Guidance at https://arb.org.uk/international-routes/arb-and-roac-mra
• Canadian Architects: Refer to ROAC’s UK professional mobility page at https://roac.ca/professional-mobility/united-kingdom-arb

Applications open 14 May 2025. We recommend early preparation, including gathering proof of qualifications, registration status and ensuring good standing certificates are up to date.

If you would like tailored advice on cross-border registration, regulatory compliance, or how this MRA could benefit you, please contact James Hutchinson in London at j.hutchinson@beale-law.com/+44 (0) 20 7469 0408 or Andrés Durán, in Toronto at a.duran@beale-law.com/+1 647 330 2314.