Changes to the Architects Act 1997 simplify the way architects qualified here can practise in Europe and those qualified in Europe can practise here (25/06/2008)
The Architects Registration Board (ARB) is pleased to announce that changes have been made to the Architects Act 1997 to implement the provisions of the Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications Directive (2005/36/EC).
The Directive harmonises the recognition of professional qualifications between relevant European States (States within the European Economic Area). The amendments to the Act follow extensive contributions from ARB to the department for Communities and Local Government to ensure the free movement of architects and the maintenance of a sensible and fair process of registration/licensing across Europe. Those discussions have resulted in changes to the government’s plans for transposition which support the strong professional status of architects within the UK and the transferability of their qualifications across the relevant European States.
The changes to the Act primarily affect those architects from other relevant European States outside the UK who are applying to be registered so that they can practise in the UK. The changes also split the Register into two Parts. Part 1 for registration in the UK, Part 2 for architects from other relevant European States who wish to practise here on a temporary or occasional basis. Part 2 of the Register replaces the current list of visiting EEA architects, which ARB has always maintained as required by an earlier Directive, but which has been little used.
For UK architects, the Directive will affect those who wish to work in other relevant European States, either on a temporary or permanent basis. ARB is actively working with other member states to simplify the application process and has developed a number of certificates, which should help UK architects work freely around Europe.
Special provisions for applicants who hold Swiss qualifications will apply under ‘saved’ arrangements. Applicants in this category will have the right for recognition as if these new Qualifications Directive-based rules had not come into force. Please call the ARB for more information.
ARB is updating its website to provide further information on revisions to its own procedures and to reflect these changes. There are some initial frequently asked questions available, which will be refined and extended. For more information see www.arb.org.uk.
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