Countries Where ACCA Holders Have The Signing Authority
Last Update On 20th January 2025
Duration: 6 Mins Read
“Does an ACCA have signing authority?” This question might have occurred to any young accounting and finance enthusiast looking to take the ACCA course.
The ACCA is a high-level accounting qualification. ACCA holders enjoy global recognition that helps them climb the professional ladder easily.
With an ACCA degree, one can work in almost any corner of the world. They also enjoy signatory authority in some countries as the cherry on the cake. This means they have the power to sign audit reports and practice auditing by setting up their own company, making ACCA-certified individuals highly valued professionals.
Read on to learn more about the countries that give ACCA holders signatory authority and the advantages of pursuing an ACCA.
What Is the ACCA Qualification?
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) course is one of the most in-demand career paths worldwide and is a leading qualification in accounting. Students who complete the ACCA program receive rigorous training, a skill set, and knowledge required to flourish in accounting.
The ACCA qualification is a gateway to a rewarding global career as an accountant. Its international standard makes it a recognised qualification among various organisations. For this reason, multinational companies hiring ACCAs find it easier to move staff across borders for their overseas operations.
To know more about the ACCA qualification scope, read our blog “ACCA Career Scope and Job Opportunities in India and Abroad.”
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Countries Where ACCA Holders Have Signing Authority
The list of the ACCA signing authority countries is as follows:
Australia and New Zealand
Australia and New Zealand offer lucrative job opportunities for ACCA holders. The ACCA has an agreement with CPA that allows ACCA members to work as Public Accountants with signatory authority.
United Kingdom
Does an ACCA have signing authority in the UK?” This is a common question among ACCA aspirants. The ACCA is headquartered in London, United Kingdom. Hence, ACCA professionals have signatory authority in the UK. Professionals who want to work as Accountants in the UK must have an ACCA UK practicing certification and audit certification to sign audits.
United Arab Emirates
The UAE is a go-to destination for ACCA holders to start their professional journey. The ACCA board has agreed with the Accountants and Auditors Association (AAA), the UAE’s national accountancy body. ACCA degree holders simply need to have a membership with the AAA to have the signatory authority.
Canada
Several students aspire to work and settle in Canada. For those of you belonging to this group, the ACCA has an agreement with CPA Canada that allows ACCA members to work as Public Accountants with signature authority. This tie-up makes it a viable option for ACCA-certified individuals to work and settle in Canada while enjoying a high professional status.
Malaysia
Malaysia has fantastic job opportunities for ACCA holders. The ACCA has concluded a Mutual Recognition Agreement with the Malaysian Institute of Certified Public Accountants (MICPA). This agreement between the two bodies grants ACCA holders signatory authority in Malaysia.
Germany
Germany, known for its robust financial sector, recognises ACCA professionals under its European Union (EU) equivalence agreements. ACCA members who wish to practice as statutory auditors must fulfil certain requirements set by the Chamber of Public Accountants (Wirtschaftsprüferkammer – WPK). While ACCA alone does not automatically grant full signing authority in Germany, professionals can pursue additional local qualifications to gain auditing rights.
Switzerland
Switzerland, a major financial hub, provides ACCA holders with opportunities in banking, finance, and corporate accounting. Although ACCA does not directly grant signing authority, ACCA professionals who meet specific Swiss regulatory and work experience requirements can become recognised auditors and sign financial reports. Many ACCA-qualified professionals work in multinational firms and financial institutions in Switzerland, benefiting from the country’s strong demand for international accounting expertise.
South Africa
In South Africa, ACCA is recognised by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) and the Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA). ACCA members can obtain audit rights and signing authority by fulfilling SAICA’s requirements and registering with IRBA. The demand for ACCA professionals in South Africa’s corporate and financial sectors makes it an attractive destination for international accountants.
Pre-Requisites for Obtaining an ACCA Degree
The following are the eligibility requirements for the ACCA course:
- ACCA candidates must pass their 10+2 exams.
- Aspirants must obtain at least 65% in mathematics, accounting, and English and 50% in other subjects.
- Aspirants who do not meet the above criteria can enrol in the ACCA course through the Foundation in Accountancy (FIA) route.
Why Pursue the ACCA Course?
There are several reasons why any accounting aspirant must consider the ACCA course. Here is a synopsis of why one should go for an ACCA course for a career boost. However, if you want a detailed analysis of why one must take the ACCA course, read our article “7 Reasons to do an ACCA Course: Why do ACCA?“
Global Work Opportunities
An ACCA holder, as discussed, can choose to work anywhere in the world because of its global status. Additionally, they also receive signatory authority in several countries across the globe. The ACCA qualification gets recognition in over 180 countries, allowing you to work in practically any part of the world.
High Demand
ACCA holders are in high demand in firms because they are trained to examine existing business procedures and develop efficient ideas to improve them. Qualifications such as the ACCA will undoubtedly increase your professional possibilities.
In-depth Understanding of Finance
You will get a solid understanding of accounting concepts through ACCA. Furthermore, an ACCA course will keep you up to date on the latest tax law developments as well as accounting industry norms and regulations.
Flexibility of Learning
One can take the ACCA test in quarterly sessions; some are given on demand. This allows you to finish all levels of tests at your own pace.
There is no minimum number of exams that a person can take. Although there is a maximum of four exams in one try, students can take anything between 1 and 4 exams.
Higher Earning Potential
Advanced certifications and skills can significantly boost salary prospects, opening doors to lucrative career opportunities.
Continuous Professional Development
Staying updated with industry trends and skills ensures long-term career growth and enhances professional credibility.
High Professional Standing
ACCA members are highly sought after. Employers worldwide value ACCA members and recognise their professionalism and skills. ACCA holders are put on a high professional footing.
Why is the ACCA Universally Popular?
ACCA is globally recognised for its comprehensive curriculum, international career opportunities, and alignment with IFRS. Its flexibility, affordability, and strong employer demand make it a top choice for aspiring accountants.
Is ACCA Recognised in India?
Yes, ACCA is recognised in India, especially by multinational companies (MNCs), Big 4 firms, and global finance organisations. While it isn’t a mandatory qualification for statutory audits in India, it offers excellent career opportunities in corporate finance, consulting, and taxation.
Wrapping Up
This article sheds light on the ACCA signing power countries list and briefly discusses the benefits of an ACCA qualification. Employers in the ACCA signing power countries highly value ACCA-qualified professionals. Thus, ACCA holders in these countries receive a hefty yearly pay package and enjoy several professional perks and benefits.
Zell Education can help you realise your dream of becoming a qualified ACCA. Zell aims to provide holistic skill development through individualised study programs, faculty mentoring, and interactive online classes. The program is notable for its 80% pass rate, one-on-one supervision, and 100% placement assistance.
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FAQs on Countries where ACCA holders have the signing authority
How many countries recognise ACCA?
More than 180 countries recognise the ACCA qualification. This qualification will expose you to global career opportunities.
Does ACCA have signing authority in Dubai?
Yes. The UAE is a preferred option for ACCA holders to start their professional journey. ACCA members have signing authority in many countries, such as Dubai, the UK, Canada, Malaysia, Australia, and New Zealand.
Can ACCA members work internationally?
Yes, ACCA members can work internationally, as the qualification is globally recognised in over 180 countries.
Is ACCA a good career option in India?
ACCA is a great career option in India, offering opportunities in auditing, taxation, finance, and consulting with competitive salaries.
What roles can ACCA members hold in India?
In India, ACCA members can work as financial analysts, auditors, tax consultants, risk managers, and finance managers across MNCs, Big 4 firms, and corporate sectors.
