Reminder on Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Policy

The Continuing Professional Development Office (CPDO) would like to remind all members of the key requirements under the HKIA's Mandatory CPD Policy Framework (revised March 2026). Compliance with these requirements is essential for the annual renewal of your HKIA membership, as outlined in HKIA Rules 22B and 23B. The policy emphasises self-discipline, trust, and ongoing professional growth to ensure members maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills in the architectural profession.

Please note the following key highlights:

Annual Minimum CPD Hours Requirement: For membership renewal, you must undertake a minimum of 25 CPD credit hours annually. This applies to all Fellows, Members, Non-Resident Members, Affiliates, and Graduate Members. For new members admitted during the year, the requirement is proportionate to the period of membership from the date of admission up to 30 September. Excess hours (up to a maximum of 10) from the previous year may be carried forward for one year only.

Minimum Hours for CPD Events organised by HKIA (Category A1): As part of the 25-hour requirement, a minimum of 3 credit hours must be obtained under Category A1 – Attending the live courses, seminars, conferences, and workshops organised by HKIA on the scheduled event day (whether in-person or online, depending on each event's arrangement will be counted under this category). These hours are automatically recorded in your HKIA Member Area account upon due attendance when you register online. If fewer than 3 hours are attained in this category, the deficit cannot be offset by surplus hours from other categories, and your total CPD declaration will be deemed insufficient.

Classification of On-Demand Recordings: Watching on-demand recordings of HKIA events (HKIA Member Area) qualifies as self-guided study under Category D1 (Self-guided study or researches through structured reading, use of audio, video, or internet resources).

Grace Period for Shortfalls: If you fall short of the minimum 25 hours / 3 hours of A1 in a given year, you must make up the outstanding hours in the following year, in addition to fulfilling that year's full requirement. Only a one-year grace period is allowed. Failure to comply may result in the Council terminating your membership under Rule 23B, with your name potentially published in the HKIA Newsletter or circular.

CPD Declaration Period: The CPD declaration covers activities undertaken from 1 October of the previous year to 30 September of the current year.  Selected members may be required to submit a CPD Record Form for substantiation during randksom chec . (CPD Declaration Form and associated forms)

Reinstatement of membership: A minimum of 25 CPD hours must be completed in the 12 months preceding your application.

HKIA Membership Card cum Green Card: members are reminded to complete Section F of the Declaration Form regarding the Construction Industry Safety Training (CIST) course or equivalent updates on occupational safety and health.

The full CPD Policy Framework is available on the HKIA website for your reference. If you have any queries or suggestions regarding CPD policy or activities, please contact the CPDO at cpd@hkia.org.hk or by telephone at 2511 6323.

We encourage all members to plan their CPD activities proactively to ensure compliance and continued professional excellence. More variety of topics that will enrich your professional development will be arranged. Stay tuned! You may refer to HKIA’s website, What’s On and CPD FAQ for more information.