Our ref: ARB/LAC/KT/AO/20250806
6 August 2025
Architects Registration Ordinance (Cap. 408)
Misuse of Title “Architect”
Recently it has come to the attention of Architects Registration Board, Hong Kong SAR (“ARB”) on the various instances of misuse of the title “Architect” in Hong Kong, which include: -
- persons, who are not registered with ARB, use the title "architect" in their name cards or promotion publications;
- persons, who are not registered with ARB, introduce or imply themselves to the public or media as "architect";
- media or institutions introducing or addressing individuals, who are not registered with ARB, as "architect" in events, programs or publications.
ARB hereby reiterate the following statutory provisions under the Architects Registration Ordinance ("Ordinance") governing the use of the title 'architect' in Hong Kong: -
- Section 30(1) of the Ordinance,
“a person whose name does not appear on the register shall not be entitled to describe himself as "architect" or "registered architect" or to use the initials "R.A." after his name.”
- Section 31(1)(h) of the Ordinance,
“any person who, not being a registered architect, knowingly permits the use of or uses in connection with his business or profession the description "architect" …, commits an offence and is liable to a fine at level 5 and to imprisonment for 1 year.”
For any non-compliance, ARB shall reserve the right to take immediate legal actions under the Ordinance to safeguard the public interest and uphold the standards of the architectural profession in Hong Kong.
Therefore, ARB would like to remind the public and all stakeholders to remain vigilant on the use of the title "architect", in order not to attract undesirable legal consequence.
In case of doubt and wish to verify if someone is registered with ARB, the register of registered architects in Hong Kong is provided for viewing on the ARB Website (https://www.arb.org.hk/en/the_register).
For those persons not being registered architects in Hong Kong, but are registered as architects outside Hong Kong, they may, under Section 30(3)(b) of the Ordinance: -
“describe himself by reference to a membership of any body or institute of architects formed outside Hong Kong, which description does not imply that he has the right to practise architecture in Hong Kong under the description of architect.”
Should there be further queries, please contact ARB by 3155 0420 or via email arbsec@arb.org.hk.
Thank you for your attention.
