APEC Architect Recognition in the United States
Recognition Requirements for APEC Architects From Foreign Economies Other Than Canada
The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) administers the Broadly Experienced Foreign Architect (BEFA) program that is described in Chapter 3 of the Handbook for Interns and Architects.
An APEC Architect from an economy other than Canada may go through the process described below on an expedited basis as many of the eligibility requirements have been fulfilled by virtue of being placed on the APEC Register in the home economy.
Requirements for Certification of Foreign Architects
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General. A “Foreign Architect” is an individual who holds a current registration, license or certificate in good standing in a country other than the United States or Canada allowing him/her to engage in the unlimited practice of architecture (defined as the ability to provide any architectural services on any type of building.) A Foreign Architect may be granted an NCARB Certificate under a mutual recognition agreement ratified by the Member Boards or under the procedures set forth in this Chapter. Such Certificate shall mean that NCARB recommends registration be granted to the Certificate holder by any NCARB Member Board without further examination of credentials.
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Broadly Experienced Foreign Architects (BEFA). Foreign Architects credentialed in countries NCARB determines offer reasonable reciprocal credentialing opportunities for U.S. architects may apply for NCARB certification through the BEFA process set forth in this Section. The application and all necessary documentation including the transcript and the dossier as well as the interview must be in English. See the BEFA Program for more information on the BEFA process.