Easier professional mobility for architects
Montreal, Canada, 2026-02-25 – Architects in Canada and European Union (EU) countries now benefit from a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA), which removes barriers for those looking to work in one or another of these jurisdictions.
The MRA, adopted by Canada and the EU and in force since December 18, 2025, recognizes the equivalency of architecture training and professional experience in the countries concerned and ensures faster access to licensure for architects seeking to export their skills. Instead of having to return to school or write an examination, they need only fulfil a set of harmonized criteria. This simplified process is of significant benefit to practitioners wishing to contribute to cross-border projects or establish a practice overseas.
Strengthening the profession
Beyond its impact on individual professional trajectories, the agreement increases opportunities for collaboration likely to foster innovation, knowledge sharing and continuous improvement of practice, all of which strengthen the profession on both sides of the Atlantic.
“Although there are differences in practice from one jurisdiction to another, the common mission of architectural regulatory organizations, both here in Canada and in the EU, is to protect the public interest,” said Scott Kemp, Chair of the Regulatory Organizations of Architecture in Canada (ROAC) International Mobility Committee (IMC). “This provides a foundation for mutual trust and allows us to build on the learning opportunities available to us. Architecture is a team sport, and thanks to the MRA, we now have many more players on our roster,” he added.
The Ordre des architectes du Québec (OAQ), as ROAC secretariat, is responsible for processing recognition requests from the EU for all of Canada. Once their application is accepted, architects may register with any of the country’s architectural regulators. “We are thrilled to be helping to implement this agreement, which promises to generate momentous opportunities for professional development while smoothing business synergies,” said Pierre Corriveau, the OAQ’s President.
Potential for expanded business opportunities
The agreement naturally opens up new avenues for architecture firms seeking to expand their market or join international consortia. It also allows companies developing projects overseas to retain their preferred architects. In today’s uncertain geopolitical and economic context, an agreement like this, grounded in mutual trust and shared values, is strategically important because it provides for greater predictability.
MRA requirements
Architects wishing to take advantage of the MRA must:
- hold a diploma in architecture from a recognized program;
- be members in good standing of an architectural licensing authority in their home country;
- have at least 12 years’ education and experience, including 4 years’ professional experience earned after their registration/licensure;
- provide proof of good conduct; and
- if they are from an EU country, take a 10-hour online course on architecture practice in Canada.
After meeting these conditions, architects may register with a host country’s architectural regulator, which may impose additional conditions (e.g., language skills and regulatory requirements).
Note that applications for work visas and permits must be made separately, through the usual government channels in the host countries.
For EU architects wishing to practise in Canada, detailed information is available on the ROAC website.Architects in Canada wishing to practise in the EU must contact the host country’s architectural regulator.
About the ROAC
Regulatory Organizations of Architecture in Canada (ROAC) represents the eleven provincial and territorial regulators of the profession of architecture in Canada. These regulatory bodies are responsible for setting the standards for entry into the profession and for issuing registration/licenses to those who meet established standards of qualifications and practice. These regulators individually regulate the practice of architecture so that the public interest is protected within their respective province or territory.
About the Ordre des architectes du Québec
The mission of the Ordre des architectes du Québec is to ensure the protection of the public. To that end, it controls admission to the title of architect and the right to practice the profession in Quebec. It takes an interest in any issue that may influence the quality of architecture and the built environment. The Ordre currently has close to 5,000 member and more than 1,200 intern architects.