Mandatory Requirement for Architects to Obtain a Professional Practice Certificate

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Article 21 of the Law on Architecture 2019 stipulates that individuals assuming the position of head of architectural design, individuals responsible for architectural expertise in architectural practice organizations, and architects practicing as individuals must have an architectural practice certificate, except as provided in Article 31 of this Law.

In which, architects practicing as individuals are those who have an architectural practice certificate and do not belong to any architectural practice organization, performing architectural services in their own name. Architects practicing as individuals perform architectural services under contracts made with organizations or individuals in accordance with this Law and other relevant laws.

On the other hand, individuals without an architectural practice certificate are still allowed to participate in providing architectural services within an architectural practice organization or in cooperation with architects practicing as individuals.

Regarding architectural practice organizations (including architectural offices, public service organizations, and enterprises established and operated by architects with an architectural practice certificate), they must meet the conditions stipulated in Article 33 of this Law, specifically:

a) Be established according to legal provisions;

b) Have individuals responsible for architectural expertise or head of architectural design holding an architectural practice certificate;

c) Notify the information specified in points a and b of this clause to the specialized architectural authority under the Provincial People's Committee where the architectural practice organization has its headquarters.

Additionally, the Law on Architecture 2019 also stipulates the professional conduct code of practicing architects to be in accordance with legal provisions and includes the following basic contents (the professional conduct code of practicing architects is applicable to organizations and individuals practicing architecture):

- Principles of practice;- Competition in practice;- Ensuring gender equality;- Intellectual property rights;- Professional conduct towards colleagues and clients.

Refer to further related regulations in the Law on Architecture 2019 effective from July 1, 2020.

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