As of today, July 6, 2026, U.S. architects can take advantage of a new Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) between NCARB and our counterpart in South Africa, the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP). Here’s how you can expand your practice through the new opportunity.
Note: These instructions are for U.S. architects. See instructions for South African architects seeking licensure in the United States.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
To be eligible for reciprocal licensure under this agreement, U.S. architects must:
- Hold a valid license/registration in good standing in a participating jurisdiction in the United States
- Hold an active NCARB Certificate
- Hold a visa (If you plan to practice in person in South Africa)
Before applying, ensure the jurisdiction in which you are seeking licensure is a participant in the agreement.
Step 2: Contact NCARB
Once you confirm you’re eligible for licensure through the MRA, contact NCARB online or at 202-879-0520. NCARB’s Customer Relations team will review your NCARB Record, verify that you meet the eligibility requirements, and transmit your Record to SACAP for their review. Note that you will be charged NCARB's transmittal fee.
Step 3: Complete Application Process With SACAP
After your NCARB Record has been shared with SACAP, you will need to create an online SACAP profile and complete their application process. At this point, you will need to register as a Candidate Architect and apply to take an assessment, the Professional Practice Examination (PPE). The exam is similar to jurisdiction-specific exams on local codes in the U.S. and is offered every May and October. Once you have successfully passed the PPE, you may upgrade your status to Registered Professional Architect. If you have questions while completing SACAP’s application process, you should contact SACAP for guidance.
Step 4: Confirm Your Right to Work
To conduct in-person business in South Africa, you must be granted legal permission to work there. Neither NCARB nor SACAP can provide you with the right to work. You must submit a visa application for permission to work in South Africa. Note that this is required only for architects seeking to practice in person in South Africa.
Learn more about the process and applicable fees.
To learn about other opportunities to practice abroad, visit ncarb.org/international.
