The AIA is a US-based professional organization that exists to protect and serve architects and design professionals, monitor legislative issues that impact the public and the profession and recognize and promote excellence in architectural design, technology and design-related issues.

The members of the AIA are individuals who are licensed to practice architecture in the US and are invited to be a part of the leading organization representing the interests of their profession.

The members of the American Institute of Architects create a community to share knowledge and advocate a shared vision to have a positive impact on the direction of the profession, the shape of our neighborhoods, and our world.

AIA International, formed in 2012 as AIA International Region, is a component of the Institute. It encompasses all areas outside the US and is the broadest geographical component of the American Institute of Architects, providing a collaborative leadership platform to empower members and encourage global success through best practice, innovative thinking and design excellence.

All offshore AIA chapters – currently seven in all – are now part of the new component. Stateside, the average “penetration rate” for AIA membership – that is, the proportion of licensed architects who belong to the Institute – is around 56 percent. Some regions reach rates as high as 73 percent and others are as low as 39 percent. Outside of the United States, rates of AIA membership are higher. In Europe, the rate may approach 95 percent.