Foreign Influence Transparency and Accountability Act
August 04, 2026
Registration Requirement Under the Foreign Influence Transparency and Accountability Act
The Foreign Influence Transparency and Accountability Act (FITAA) aims to increase transparency around certain foreign influence activities to strengthen Canada’s national security. FITAA came into force on August 4, 2026.
Under the Act, individuals (e.g., faculty members, researchers, administrators, students, and staff) and organizations (e.g., academic institutions) are required to register certain arrangements they have entered with a foreign principal if such arrangements involve undertaking activities aimed at influencing political or governmental processes in Canada. Briefly, registration is required if the following three elements, which are defined under the Act, are present: a) Foreign principal, b) Influence activity, and c) Political or governmental process.
If you have questions when assessing if your situation requires registration under the Act, please check the following resources:
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- Frequently Asked Questions about FITAA
- Registration Assessment Questionnaire
- Interpretation Bulletins
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Office of the Foreign Influence Commissioner of Canada: Consult via email (info@influencecanada.gc.ca) or phone (1-844-433-2323)
Registration of arrangements with a foreign principal must be completed within 14 days of the arrangement. “Active” arrangements that are made prior to August 4, 2026 may be registered until October 3, 2026. “Inactive” arrangements do not require registration. When ready to register, follow this Step-by-Step Guide to complete your registration.