Registration of Existing Arms, Flags and Badges

Since its creation, the Canadian Heraldic Authority has endeavoured to document the heraldic heritage of Canada, its institutions and its citizens. As such, existing arms, flags and badges that have been granted by a recognized heraldic authority of another country may be recorded in the Public Register of Arms, Flags and Badges of Canada.

In addition, a registration can be made of heraldic emblems granted by the chief herald of Canada that have subsequently been inherited by another person.

The Canadian Heraldic Authority also issues confirmation documents to individuals and organizations that already possess official emblems, but which have changed their name. The process for a confirmation is identical to that of a registration.

Note: If changes to the emblems are needed, then the request becomes an application for a new grant of arms (see Grant of Arms, Flags and Badges).

Opening of the file

To register your emblems, send a request to the chief herald of Canada by filling out the online application form.

After reception of your application, we will contact you to obtain the relevant documents to complete your file. Which documents will I need to provide?

Registration process

  1. The chief herald of Canada examines the request and determines if a registration is possible or if further information is required.
  2. Note: The laws, customs and heraldic rules of one country can differ from those of another. The chief herald might therefore accept a request, but with limits on what will be registered.
  3. A warrant is signed permitting the registration of the emblems.
  4. The registration document containing the blazon (heraldic description) and the symbolism of the emblems is prepared in both official languages, and a page number is assigned in the Public Register of Arms, Flags and Badges of Canada. The document is signed and sealed by the registrar of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
  5. The document is sent to you by mail.
  6. In the following 6 to 12 months, the registration is added to the online version of the Public Register of Arms, Flags and Badges of Canada.

Cost and time frame

There is no fee for registering officially-created heraldic emblems.

The average time required to complete a registration is six months after the warrant has been signed. The process can last longer if we receive a large volume of requests.