About this certificate
Obtaining the CPA-UK professional qualification from APAA demonstrates that an individual has achieved the professional knowledge and competence required by the certification programme.
Examination & CPD
All candidates must sign the APAA Code of Ethics prior to certification. See the full certification requirements.
Practising Accounting & Statutory Audit
Holding the CPA-UK qualification does not automatically give a member the right to practise accountancy or statutory audit in the UK. Members wishing to provide professional services in the UK must comply with all applicable legal, regulatory and professional requirements.
To Practise Accountancy in the UK
Practitioners may be required to:
- Hold an appropriate Practising Certificate.
- Maintain suitable Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII).
- Obtain appropriate Anti-Money Laundering supervision from HMRC or another recognised supervisory body.
- Complete client identification, due diligence and AML risk assessments.
- Safeguard client money and assets, where applicable.
- Maintain suitable continuity of practice arrangements.
- Issue clear letters of engagement to clients.
- Maintain confidentiality, professional records and data protection controls.
- Comply with applicable professional and ethical standards.
- Complete appropriate Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
- Comply with HMRC registration requirements and the HMRC Standard for Agents where providing tax services.
Statutory Audit
The CPA-UK qualification does not authorise a member to undertake statutory audit work.
To carry out or sign statutory audits in the UK, additional requirements apply, including:
- an appropriate recognised audit qualification;
- relevant practical audit experience;
- registration through a UK Recognised Supervisory Body (RSB);
- appropriate approval to act as a statutory auditor or Responsible Individual;
- registration of the audit firm; and
- compliance with applicable audit, independence, ethics and quality requirements.
Failure to Comply
Non-compliance may result in:
- HMRC penalties
- Cancellation or suspension of AML registration
- Regulatory fines
- Restrictions on professional activities
- Prosecution in serious cases
The level of any fine or penalty depends on the relevant law, regulator and seriousness of the breach.
