CICA

CICA is an acronym that can refer to several organizations or regulatory terms in different countries. The most widely known use is the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants, the former national professional body for Chartered Accountants in Canada.

In Canada, CICA served as a standard-setter, educator, and advocate for the accounting profession. It published the CICA Handbook, a central reference work containing Canadian accounting standards and guidance. In the early 2010s, CICA merged with other Canadian accounting bodies to form CPA Canada, and the CICA name was gradually phased out as the new national body took precedence. The standards and publications once overseen by CICA were incorporated into CPA Canada’s framework, continuing to influence Canadian accounting practice.

Outside Canada, CICA is used by various organizations in different sectors and regions. These uses can include nonprofit associations, research institutes, industry councils, or regulatory committees, among others. Because the acronym is shared by multiple groups, the exact meaning of CICA depends on the regional or professional context in which it appears.

If you encounter CICA in a specific context, examining the relevant country, sector, or organization’s official materials can clarify which entity is being referenced. In many cases, a disambiguation or contextual note accompanies the term to guide interpretation. CPA Canada is a related and commonly connected term, particularly in discussions about Canadian accounting standards and professional credentialing.