Associate Membership

Application for Associate Membership

Become an Associate Member of the IOA, a Pathway to Global Collaboration and Growth

Eligibility for Associate Membership

The International Orthoptic Association (IOA) offers Associate Membership to national orthoptic associations that are still in development and do not yet meet the requirements for full membership. As outlined in the Articles of Association and supporting documents, the following criteria apply:

1. Organizational Development

   • The national association may have been in existence for less than three years.

2. National Representation

   • Only one representative per country may hold a seat on the IOA Council. Where multiple associations exist in a country, consensus must be reached regarding unified representation.

3. Training and Education

   • The association may not yet operate a nationally recognized orthoptic training program but should demonstrate a clear commitment to developing education and practice standards.

4. Promotion of the Profession

   • The association must show a commitment to promoting the professional, scientific, and practical education of orthoptists in its country.

5. Financial and Attendance Expectations

   • The association must commit to meeting the basic financial obligations of associate membership, including reduced annual dues.
   • While attendance at IOA Council meetings is encouraged, associate members do not have voting rights.

6. Baseline Information

   • The association must provide:
     • Details of its current organizational structure.
     • A description of its progress in developing training standards, education programs, and national representation processes.

Application Process

To apply for Associate Membership, national associations must:

1. Complete the Application Form: Provide a summary of the association’s structure, development progress, and goals.
2. Submit Supporting Documentation:
   • Proof of the association’s establishment (less than three years).
   • A statement outlining future plans for training programs, education standards, and national representation.
3. Review and Approval: Applications are reviewed by the IOA Council to ensure eligibility and alignment with IOA membership criteria.

Membership Benefits

Associate Membership offers national associations the opportunity to:

• Participate in the IOA’s international activities and initiatives.
• Access IOA resources, including educational materials, professional development opportunities, and global networks.
• Engage in International Orthoptic Congresses and benefit from reduced registration rates for members.
• Receive support and guidance to help develop training programs and achieve Full Membership status in the future.

While associate members do not have voting rights, they are encouraged to participate in IOA discussions and events, contributing to the growth of the global orthoptic community.

Contact Information

For further details or to submit your application for Associate Membership, please contact:
📧 Daisy Godts – Program Coordinator for International Cooperation
📧 Email: belgium@internationalorthoptics.org

Join the IOA as an Associate Member and take the first step toward global collaboration and professional growth.