The Regulatory Organizations of Architecture in Canada (ROAC)/ National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) Mutual Recognition Agreement between the United States and Canada has been updated.
The updated MRA will go into effect on Thursday, January 15, 2026. This MRA, signed into agreement by official representatives from both organizations on November 13, 2025, replaces the existing agreement between NCARB and ROAC.
Overview of the Key Changes
As of January 15, 2026, the ROAC/NCARB agreement no longer requires:
- proof of permanent residency/citizenship;
- 2000 hours of post licensure experience;
- Principal place of practice in a signatory state; or
- Letter of good standing (replaced with an expanded letter of attestation)
Architects registered in Canada going to the United States will continue to be required to obtain an NCARB Certificate.
US Applicants will continue to be required to apply directly to the Canadian jurisdiction in which they wish to become licensed/registered.
More information on the Agreement can be found on the ROAC website, as well as in the below resources: