What are the jurisdictions of the heraldic authorities?

The English Kings of Arms, who are the senior heralds at the College of Arms in London, have jurisdiction over England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and all other countries where Elizabeth II is head of state, except Scotland and Canada.

Lord Lyon King of Arms, in Edinburgh, has jurisdiction over Scotland and domiciled Scotsmen and women, and will also in certain circumstances grant arms to foreign nationals.

The Chief Herald of Canada grants arms to Canadians.

The Chief Herald of Ireland will grant arms to residents of the whole of the island of Ireland, and to others of Irish descent.

The English Kings of Arms will make grants of honorary arms to American citizens who can place on record at the College of Arms a pedigree showing their descent from a British subject.

Note that the claims to jurisdiction by Lord Lyon King of Arms (other than in Scotland) and the Chief Herald of Ireland in countries where Queen Elizabeth II is Queen are not recognised by the College of Arms in London.

Rouge Croix Pursuivant
December 2001