Created in 1999, the Viceregal Commendation and Commissioners' Commendation is presented by the governor general, the lieutenant-governors of the provinces and the commissioners of the territories respectively for long-term or outstanding service to the Office of the Queen's representative or territorial commissioner.

The recipients have either served on staff (paid or volunteer) during an incumbent's mandate in a commendable fashion; or the recipient has performed one or more outstanding acts as a member of the incumbent's staff (paid or volunteer) that has benefited the Office of the Queen's representative or territorial commissioner.