International efforts
AIA demonstrates its global leadership by providing resources for members practicing overseas, establishing and maintaining bilateral agreements with architectural organizations based outside the United States, and supporting international members.
Support for international chapters
AIA has 200+ chapters worldwide. International locations include Canada, Continental Europe, Hong Kong, Japan, Shanghai, United Kingdom, and Middle East. Our international efforts support members across these chapters as well as U.S.-based members practicing abroad.
- AIA International
- AIA Canada Society
- AIA Continental Europe
- AIA Hong Kong
- AIA Japan
- AIA Middle East
- AIA Shanghai
- AIA United Kingdom
AIA Global Practice Primer
Developed by the AIA Global Practice Committee, the AIA Global Practice Primer is a culmination of decades of international experience and work designed to provide valuable judgment and guidance for anyone looking to practice internationally. It highlights the intricacies and differences of working abroad, including how international practice differs from domestic practice in the U.S.
Global Practice Committee
The AIA Global Practice Committee explores and monitors global practice and policy issues to be addressed by the AIA President and Board of Directors and promotes effective communication among international constituencies and stakeholders within AIA. The committee disseminates information on international markets, practice, and design; develops expertise in global policy and trade issues; and fosters relationships with architects abroad.
United Nations Climate Change Conference
In 2021, AIA was granted nongovernmental organization (NGO) observer status by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Since then, AIA has attended the annual United Nations Climate Change Conference to address the needs of our planet and our communities. AIA seeks meaningful policies and is committed to a better, more inclusive built environment that will sustain a healthy world.
International Union of Architects (UIA)
The UIA is an international organization committed to unifying architects, influencing public policies, and advancing architecture in service to the needs of society. Through its member sections, it is represented in 124 countries and territories across five global regions.
UIA Accord on Recommended International Standards
The UIA’s recommended standards for international practice include 18 policy statements and 14 detailed guidelines. It promotes architect mobility by defining and encouraging the global adoption of standards of practice.
Federacion Panamericana de Asociaciones de Arquitectos
Since its establishment in 1950, the Pan American Federation of Architects Associations has sought to bring together architects from all American countries without racial, religious, or political distinction.