Earlier this month, representatives from the Regulatory Organizations of Architecture in Canada (ROAC) and the U.S. National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) signed an updated Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA). This refreshed agreement expands access to professional opportunities for architects in both Canada and the United States.

The MRA streamlines the process for architects to earn reciprocal licenses, simplifying cross-border practice and collaboration. It provides for the reciprocal registration of architects practicing in a jurisdiction that is a signatory to the agreement. All 11 architectural regulators in Canada, including the OAA, are signatories.

The refreshed MRA goes into effect on January 15, 2026, and will replace the existing agreement between the two countries. Architects seeking to understand the specific changes and how they may be affected are encouraged to review the official documentation.

To learn more, click the link here to read the full MRA from ROAC and NCARB. You can also learn more about international mobility on the OAA Website and also find out more about the existing MRA. 

Click the button below to learn more.