Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has assigned a new professional body to conduct educational credential assessments (ECAs) for architects wishing to immigrate to Canada.

As part of the eligibility requirements for permanent economic residence programs, applicants must demonstrate that their foreign degrees, diplomas or certificates are authentic and equivalent to Canadian credentials. To do this, applicants can obtain an ECA from a multi-purpose professional organization or entity designated by the IRCC.

As of May 20, 2024, the Minister has designated the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) to issue ECAs to applicants who identify the National Occupational Classification (NOC) of "Architect" (NOC 21200) as their primary occupation or planned. The ECAs provided by the CACB will evaluate how foreign educational credentials compare to the Canadian ones needed to practice architecture. Additionally, these ECAs are recognized as part of the licensing process for architects.

Note: If your main occupation is "Architect" (NOC 21200) and you already hold an ECA issued by another designated organization before 31 October 2024, this will still be accepted if it is still valid.

Detailed information about ECAs, including how and when to obtain an ECA from the CACB, is now available online:

• Educational Credential Assessment – ​​Service Providers – Canada.ca
• Atlantic Immigration Program: How to Obtain an Educational Credentials Assessment – ​​Canada.ca
• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for Express Entry: How to Get One for Express Entry – Canada.ca
• Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot: How to Get an Educational Credentials Assessment – ​​Canada.ca

This information will help stakeholders make an informed decision when choosing an organization for their ECA.

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