Foreign Influence Transparency Registry
New federal requirement in effect as of August 4, 2026.
The Government of Canada has implemented the Foreign Influence Transparency Registry under the Foreign Influence Transparency and Accountability Act (FITAA).
Under the Act, individuals (e.g., faculty members, researchers, administrators, and staff) and organizations (e.g., academic institutions) are required to register certain arrangements they have entered into with a foreign entities or foreign principals if such arrangements involve undertaking activities aimed at influencing political or governmental processes in Canada.
The registry is intended to increase transparency around certain arrangements involving foreign principals and individuals or organizations acting on their behalf, to distinguish open engagement from covert foreign interference, and to help protect Canada's democratic processes. Registration is required if the following three elements, which are defined under the Act, are present: (1) Foreign Principal, (2) Influence Activity, and (3) Political or governmental process.
International collaboration is essential to research excellence, innovation, and the advancement of knowledge. ULethbridge is committed to supporting our community as these new federal requirements are implemented.
The Government of Canada is clarifying how the registration requirements will apply to academic research, collaborations, communication, and other university activities. Universities Canada and the U15 are actively engaged in these discussions on behalf of the post-secondary sector.
- Certain arrangements with foreign principals may need to be registered if they involve activities related to political or governmental processes in Canada. These activities may include communicating with public office holders, sharing information with the public (including through social media), or providing resources or benefits.
- The Government of Canada is continuing to clarify how the requirements will apply to the post-secondary sector and which specific academic activities may be in scope.
- ULethbridge will adjust its implementation approach as further guidance becomes available.
- Non-compliance may result in financial penalties and could create reputational risk, as violations, names and penalties may be made public.
- Does this apply to my research collaboration or international partnership?
- What types of activities are considered registrable arrangements?
- Who is responsible for completing a registration?
- Will the University submit registrations on behalf of individuals?
- What information will need to be provided?
Key dates and reporting timelines
The Government of Canada has established several key dates and timelines under the new registry requirements. Updates to registered information must be submitted within 14 days after the change occurs.
| August 4 | The Foreign Influence and Transparency Registry comes into effect. You must register new arrangements within 14 days of entering into a registrable arrangement. |
| October 3 | Pre-existing arrangements that were in place before August 4, 2026, and meet the registration requirements must be reported. |
Registration Process
When you are ready to register, follow this Step-by-Step Registration Guide to complete your registration. Registered arrangements covered under the Act are viewable in the Registry of Foreign Influence Activities
Resources
- Office of the Foreign Influence Commissioner of Canada
- Foreign Influence Transparency Registry
- Foreign Influence Transparency and Accountability Act
- Definitions Infosheet (Resource prepared by University of Calgary)
- Registration form
- Registry of foreign influence activities
- Frequently Asked Questions
Support
We will share additional guidance as information becomes available. For questions in the meantime, please contact ORIS at oris@uleth.ca
Adapted from Foreign Influence Transparency Registry (University of Calgary)