Royal patronage and title "Royal"

Royal patronage and use of the title "Royal" are 2 ways in which Canadian organizations can demonstrate a link with the Royal Family and the Canadian monarchy. Both are subject to rigorous criteria and are only awarded to very select organizations.

Royal patronage

Royal patronage is granted to various organizations devoted to diverse causes by members of the Royal Family as a very personal mark of both recognition and support.

Requests from Canadian organizations for royal patronage must be submitted to the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General (OSGG) at royal@gg.ca or sent by mail to:

Royal Patronage
Office of the Secretary to the Governor General
1 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, ON  K1A 0A1

The OSGG will make an initial assessment before seeking formal advice from the Department of Canadian Heritage. Positive recommendations will be forwarded to Buckingham Palace for final consideration. The OSGG’s criteria for receiving royal patronage are applied by Canadian Heritage in preparing its advice.

See the list of Canadian organizations which have received royal patronage.

Title “Royal”

The title “Royal,” or use of the prefix “Royal,” is a sign of honour and distinction. The granting of this distinction to Canadian associations, organizations and other entities is a personal prerogative of the Sovereign. It is very sparingly granted and strict standards are applied, based on significant contributions to the betterment of Canada and to Canadian society.

Requests for Royal designation by Canadian organizations must be submitted to the OSGG at royal@gg.ca or sent by mail to:

Royal Designation
Office of the Secretary to the Governor General
1 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, ON  K1A 0A1

The OSGG will make an initial assessment before seeking formal advice from the Department of Canadian Heritage. Positive recommendations will be forwarded to Buckingham Palace for final consideration. The OSGG’s criteria for receiving Royal designation are applied by Canadian Heritage in preparing its advice.

See the list of Canadian organizations with the title “Royal.”