EU qualified architects
Directive 2005/36/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on the Recognition of Professional Qualifications came into force from October 2007.
Under the provisions of the EC Architects' Directive/EEA Agreement, your architectural qualification may be accepted in the United Kingdom by the
Architects Registration Board (ARB)|.
Architects qualified via the EU Directive need not sit the Part 3 Professional Practice Examination in order to register. However, the RIBA recommends that EU Architects do still undertake Part 3 as a useful introduction to UK building legislation and contracts.
EU qualified architects may
join the RIBA| after a period of five year's approved professional practice in the European Union, as documented by a comprehensive curriculum vitae. However, in order to reduce this required period of professional experience, EU qualified architects who undertake and pass a recognised UK Part 3 examination may join RIBA immediately afterwards.
Non-EU qualified architects
Architects qualified outside of the European Union must undertake assessment with the Architects Registration Board (ARB) to gain equivalence to Parts 1 and 2 and demonstrate a minimum of 24 months experience, including at least 12 months working in the EEA (including the UK), Channel Islands or Isle of Man under the supervision of an architect before they can undertake Part 3 and join the ARB register.
For more information on the assessment process, known as the ARB Prescribed Examination, see the ARB| website.