Get an ISSN for a Canadian serial publication

Check whether the publication is continuing, gather its bibliographic details and keep print and online identifiers distinct.

An ISSN identifies a continuing resource such as a journal, magazine, newsletter or ongoing series. It identifies the serial title and medium; it is different from the ISBN used for an individual book or a specific monograph.

Prepare the request

• Confirm that the publication is intended to continue over time, with successive issues or parts.
• Provide the exact title as it appears on the publication, publisher details, language, format and a sample or URL as requested.
• Identify whether the publication is print, online or issued in more than one medium; separate identifiers may be assigned by format.
• Make sure the title and publisher metadata are consistent across the masthead, website and application.
• Apply through the ISSN agency responsible for the publication and keep the confirmation with your publishing records.

An ISSN does not guarantee indexing, peer review, editorial quality or legal protection of a title. If a title changes substantially, contact the ISSN agency before continuing to use the old number.

Canadian ISSN Centre (Library and Archives Canada) · ISSN International Portal

Sources and limits

Sources: Canadian ISSN Centre and the ISSN International Centre. Consult the current application instructions for eligibility, samples and title-change rules.

General information based on federal and national rules; provincial rules may differ. Confirm with the official body before acting.