IUVSTA is a Union (or federation) of National Vacuum Societies. There can be only one member society (or National Committee) in any one nation. This Society must be representative of the scientific and technical fields encompassed by the Divisions of IUVSTA.

Where approprate a Society can represent more than one nation.

IUVSTA can only recognise societies in geographical areas recognised by the United Nations as independent nations.

IUVSTA can provide guidance on the formation of new societies, and a document about this may be found here.