Finnish Association of Architects issues legal certificates of competence
As a result of the new Building Act, positions related to construction design and supervision are now regulated professions.
SAFA grants its full members the qualifications up to the standard level of competence required of building designers and, as an agency authorized by the Ministry of the Environment, verifies the equivalence of foreign qualifications.
The classification of levels of competence in design and supervision duties is set out in the Building Act as follows: low, regular, advanced, highly advanced and extremely advanced.
The levels of competence are based on considerations such as the architectural and technical requirements of the construction project; the intended use of the building; and the requirements imposed by the building site and operating conditions. Aside from the relevant degree, those performing design and supervisory duties in advanced or highly and extremely advanced projects are required to possess adequate work experience. Official certificates are required as proof of competence.
As an agency authorized by the Ministry of the Environment, SAFA:
- issues certificates of competence for regular construction design duties
- verifies the equivalence of foreign degrees as part of the process of awarding certificates of competence
SAFA membership provides the level of competence required for regular construction projects
Full members are automatically awarded the certificate of competence required for regular construction projects. The certificate of competence is granted in connection with admission to the Association.
Additionally, SAFA issues certificates based on equivalent qualifications acquired outside Finland (EU & EEA countries). SAFA members receive the official certificate of recognition of their degree free of charge as part of the services provided for members.
Applications for higher certificates of competence for construction design duties can be filed with FISE.
Authorization granted by the Ministry of the Environment is valid up to the year 2030
The Ministry of the Environment’s decision to authorize SAFA to grant certificates of competence and recognize foreign degrees made in February 2025 remains in force until 2030.
SAFA’s activities are supervised by the Minister of the Environment. SAFA submits annual reports to the Ministry of the Environment providing information on the number of certificates awarded broken down by field and level of competence as well as the fees collected.
Read more: Pätevyyden osoittamislaki | ym.fi