Brexit

Since 1 January 2021, the UK has had a completely different relationship with the EU. New trade agreements and a new immigration system will change the way the UK architecture sector works.

Since the referendum in 2016, we have produced several research reports to show the value of the UK’s architecture sector and provided members and practices with guidance and resources to help navigate the changes. You can see some of this information below.

The Brexit transition period has now come to an end, and the UK is now no longer a member of the EU. Although a trade deal has been agreed, we will continue to lobby for the best outcome for architects who wish to work or study in the EU.

Contact us

We will be updating these pages regularly as we learn more. If you have any questions you would like us to address, please contact us.

info@riba.org

Latest guidance

Professional feature

What are the VAT issues in providing or buying EU services?

Whether you are working for an EU client, or hiring EU businesses to work for you, there are now many tax implications to consider. Read about what to bear in mind when taking on work or invoicing for it.

Professional feature

What are the tax, payroll and visa issues in working remotely from the EU?

Can UK employed architects work from abroad unproblematically? This feature explains the financial implications of working remotely after Brexit.

Professional feature

How has mutual recognition of professional qualifications changed after Brexit?

The recognition agreement for professional qualifications, including for architecture, has ended. Find out what this means for architects working in the EU.

Blog

How has the RIBA delivered on Brexit priorities for architects?

Through surveys, research and roundtables, thousands of architects have let us know their priorities for the UK’s post Brexit trade deal. How has the RIBA delivered on these priorities for architects?

Blog

Brexit checklist

The UK has now left the EU. A trade deal has been secured, but what does that actually mean, and what should architects do now?

FAQs

Frequently asked questions on RIBA Membership and Brexit

This briefing outlines responses to questions we have been asked by current and prospective members.

View all updates

RIBA reports on Brexit

Powered by People gives a picture of the sector's international workforce, and sets out what is needed to ensure to immigration system supports rather than damages the UK's vital architecture sector.

Global by Design (2018)

Global by Design puts forward RIBA's recommendations for a Brexit that works for UK architecture.

Global Talent, Global Reach (2017)

Global Talent, Global Reach details the impact of Brexit on architecture exports and how the profession can continue to grow globally as Britain leaves the EU.

Policy notes

The RIBA's recommendations for the government in a range of areas that will ensure the profession continues to grow and thrive as the UK leaves the EU.

Boosting the UK's architectural exports

The RIBA's recommendations to the government for boosting Britain's architectural exports after Britain leaves the European Union.

Building a post-Brexit immigration system that works for UK architecture

The UK's architecture sector has been successful because it has embraced diverse talent from around the world. It is vital that Britain builds an immigration system which allows businesses to continue to benefit from the best global talent and provides certainty and security for EU citizens living in Britain.

Mutual recognition of professional qualifications

Mutual recognition agreements allow architects to practise outside their home country without taking additional exams or training. They are essential for UK architecture firms to compete international and play a vital role in the contribution of the sector to the UK economy.

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