RTPI International

Frequently asked questions

What are the big issues in international planning?

Global rates of urbanisation are growing rapidly: already more than half of the worlds population lives in urban areas. By 2030, that figure could be 60% of world population. Almost 180,000 people are added to the urban population each day, and many of those live in very poor housing. The UN Millennium Development Goals aim (among other things) to improve the lives of 100 million slum-dwellers by 2020, and that is where planning and planners come in. Good planning makes good places to live wherever you live. In cities round the world, whether the problem is precarious housing (slums, shanties, forced evictions), traffic congestion, managing economic development, curbing urban sprawl or mitigating the impact of climate change or natural disaster, planning is vital to improving people's lives.

Is my UK qualification valid overseas?

Your RTPI-accredited degree and (if applicable) RTPI membership are widely recognised. Many UK planning graduates work overseas without needing to re-qualify. That said, employers may expect you to demonstrate knowledge of local planning legislation and administration.

Is my overseas qualification valid in the UK?

Certainly - there are many planners working here on their home qualification. As with the preceding question, however, you may be expected to prove your knowledge of the local system. You could follow a distance learning course or study modules on RTPI Learn, which will be available soon.

Can I become a member of the RTPI with my overseas qualification?

Through the new category of Associate Membership, this is now possible. If you belong to our sister planning institutes in Australia, Canada or New Zealand, special recognition conditions apply. For more details, please click here.

How can I find work as a planner overseas?

We have a range of articles which you may find helpful:

General advice
Working in Australia
Working in New Zealand (and the story of one member's experience)
Working in the USA
One member's personal experience of finding work in Canada

I'm an overseas planner - How can I find work in the UK?

Again, we have a range of articles:

What are the opportunities for voluntary work abroad in planning?

Click here for a briefing

How can I find out about the planning system of another country?

Follow the link in 'Working Abroad' to find out more about the International Manual of Planning Practice, or contact the RTPI International Affairs Officer for a list of planning organisations in the country which interests you.

I'm moving abroad: can I contact RTPI members in another country?

If you are a corporate member of the Institute, we can ask your fellow-members in a particular country whether we can put you in touch with them (subject to data protection conditions). Email the International Affairs Officer for details.