The governing body has announced that new regulations will come into effect from October 1 of this year.

That means this year's World Archery Para Championships in Beijing will be the last major competition taking place under the old system.

Action in the Chinese capital will take place between September 12 and 17, with current athletes able to be classified using the new criteria once they have finished competing.

The new handbook was approved by World Archery's ruling Executive Board.

No athlete may compete in an international Para-archery competition without a current international classification.

"The classification system provides a structure for Para-archery competition, grouping athletes by impairment to create the most level playing field possible," a World Archery statement said.

"World Archery's classification handbook includes practical advice for classifiers, which may also be useful for athletes, coaches and support personnel.

"The classification of athletes is carried out at international events, when the organiser offers the service, and this new documentation has been issued in time so that athletes and officials have time to consider how the changes may affect them and their future programmes."

The handbook is available here.