Membership of the Scottish Artists Union is available to visual and applied artists working or resident in Scotland who satisfy four of the following criteria to qualify as Full members or two of the following criteria to qualify as Associate members. Those working in arts management can also apply for Union membership at Associate level.

• A degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant area.

• Received one or more public body or corporate commissions, or four or more private commissions.

• Had two or more public exhibitions and/or public installations and/or public performance, not including a degree show.

• Received one or more prizes, awards, or bursaries for professional practice.

• Been engaged by contractual agreement in an artists' placement scheme (e.g. a residency).

• Had work purchased for one or more public collections, or four or more private collections.

• Had work available for sale through one or more commercial galleries or agents within the last five years.

• Obtained membership of one or more professional associations or societies.

• Had artwork reviewed or featured in an art journal, magazine or newspaper