If you are a Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC) member intending to practice in a country that is a signatory to the Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA), it is essential to determine the appropriate pathway for professional recognition in that country.
The “Mutual Recognition Agreement” (or “MRA”) formally known as the Agreement for the Mutual Recognition of Professional Association Credentials (2022), was originally established to acknowledge similarities in professional standards and membership qualifications among select international speech-language pathology associations.
However, it does not grant recognition of professional credentials, certification, or the right to practice in another country. Each signatory maintains independent membership eligibility criteria while licensing and practicing requirements are determined by the governing bodies within each respective country. SAC members seeking to work abroad should contact the relevant professional association or regulatory body in their intended country to determine the necessary steps for credential recognition.
Similarly, SAC Certification is a voluntary professional designation that demonstrates a commitment to professional excellence and ongoing education, but it does not grant automatic eligibility to practice outside of Canada. Canadian speech-language pathologists and audiologists who wish to work in an MRA signatory country must apply directly to that country’s regulatory body or relevant authority to determine specific licensure or registration requirements.
Each MRA signatory country has its own process for recognizing internationally trained speech-language pathologists (S-LPs). Before making any professional transitions, you must reach out to the appropriate professional association to confirm the specific requirements for practicing in that country.
Listed below are the professional associations that are part of the MRA signatory group:
Each country has different requirements for recognizing professionals trained abroad. Some may allow a streamlined registration process under the MRA, while others may require additional steps such as:
It is your responsibility to verify the specific process with the relevant association before applying.
If the professional association requires verification of your SAC membership or participation in the Certification Program, SAC’s Membership Department can provide supporting documentation upon request.
Even with professional recognition, you may still need to fulfill additional country-specific requirements, such as:
For questions regarding SAC membership verification or participation in the Certification Program verification, contact certification@sac-oac.ca.
