The UIA supports our American colleagues, who in these difficult times have stood up in courageous defense of our global profession.
Where we stand
Immigration and visa restrictions
The American Institute of Architects believes that people from around the world who desire to live, study, work and travel to and from the United States are vital to American growth and innovation, and that immigration and travel restrictions negatively impact business and the profession of architecture.
We uphold the following principles:
All people everywhere must be treated fairly and with dignity and respect.
Immigration policy must ensure our visa system welcomes individuals who want to contribute to society and stops those who seek to harm us.
Architecture is a global profession. Immigration and travel restrictions can disrupt the business of many of our nation’s architectural firms that serve clients and employ staff in and from the countries targeted by the restrictions.
Architecture firms and many other businesses must have the ability to attract and retain highly qualified and skilled talent from within and outside the US to remain competitive and meet demand.
Freedom to travel without unnecessary restrictions enhances our ability to create and pursue business wherever opportunities exist, and to better serve our clients. Strong businesses create jobs that contribute to the health of the US and global economy.
Exposure to global perspectives on the built environment is an essential part of architecture and architectural education in the US, and immigrants, colleagues, students and faculty from around the world contribute significantly to this character.
Societies everywhere benefit from the ability of architects of all nationalities to collaborate.
The AIA stands for these values and principles. The profession and the broader industry benefit from a visa and immigration process that is uniform, transparent and free from arbitrary implementation.