Profession guide
Working in Europe as an Architect
Architecture is an automatic-recognition profession for EU/EEA-trained architects. Non-EU architects go through the general-system procedure administered by national chambers.
EU regulation
Regulation status in Europe
Covered by EU Directive 2005/36/EC
This profession is one of the seven listed under the automatic recognition regime. EU and EEA-trained professionals receive recognition on production of qualifying certificates — no substantive assessment is required. Non-EU professionals must go through the general-system or national procedure.
Architecture is a regulated profession across the EU and is included in the automatic recognition provisions of EU Directive 2005/36/EC. EU and EEA-qualified architects receive recognition on production of qualifying certificates. Non-EU architects typically apply through the national architects' chamber under the general-system procedure, which may require an aptitude test or adaptation period.
Countries where this profession is regulated (14)
Belgien 
Dänemark 
Deutschland 
Frankreich 
Irland 
Italien 
Lettland 
Litauen 
Niederlande 
Österreich 
Rumänien 
Slowakei 
Spanien 
Zypern Permit routes
Relevant permit routes
The EU Blue Card is available in most countries for architects. The professional recognition procedure runs in parallel with — and sometimes ahead of — the work permit application. Title protection and the scope of reserved activities (such as signing off planning applications) differ between countries.
Qualification recognition
Country-level recognition guides
The following countries have detailed qualification recognition information in their country guides.
Related guides
Related scenario and best-for guides
Scenario guide
Skilled worker with a job offer
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