EU and Canadian architects wishing to work in each other’s jurisdictions can now easily do so.
The Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) for architects with Canada – the first such EU deal covering services – has become binding, facilitating professional mobility and expanding opportunities for architects in Europe and Canada.
In conjunction with the entry into force of the MRA, DG Trade has today launched a dedicated webpage on its Access2Markets web portal. The page provides EU architects with streamlined access to resources and procedural guidance on registration, empowering them to seamlessly transition into international practice.
Adopted in October 2024, the MRA entered into force after the EU and Canada completed their internal approval procedures. It supplements existing advantages for architects under the EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which has made the provision of architectural services easier by providing guarantees on the conditions under which EU and Canadian professionals can temporarily provide their services or set up a business in each other’s jurisdictions. It is the first MRA pursuant to CETA and also the first MRA for professional qualifications to be concluded by the EU (existing MRAs cover trade in goods but not in services).
By creating a dedicated recognition process for architectural qualifications, including obtaining a license, the MRA removes barriers for EU architects seeking to work in Canada and vice-versa. This presents exciting new business prospects, allowing European architects to export their world-class skills and engage in the Canadian market.
Conditions for recognition of qualifications
To get their professional qualifications recognised in Canada, EU architects must have formal qualifications, a valid professional license from a competent authority, and a minimum of 12 years’ relevant education and experience in the field. Language requirements may apply. EU architects must also register with the competent Canadian local authorities (Provinces or Territories) to get permission to work.
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