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If you obtained a diploma or qualification in another country before arriving in Belgium, you may apply to have it recognised in Belgium. Recognition of your diploma can improve your chances of finding employment or continuing your studies. The competent authority depends on whether you reside in the French-speaking, Flemish or German-speaking Community. An equivalence certificate establishes the value of your foreign diploma within the Belgian education system.

Diploma translation

You can choose between two procedures:

• Recognition of the level of studies, which determines the Belgian level corresponding to your foreign diploma (Bachelor's degree, Master's degree or another level).
• Recognition of a specific diploma, which determines whether the content of your studies is equivalent to a specific Belgian diploma.

In most cases, your diploma and supporting documents must be translated into French or Dutch if they are not already issued in one of Belgium's official languages. These translations must be carried out by a sworn translator.

The cost of the translation depends on the number of documents and the translator. If you receive support from the CPAS/OCMW, you may be eligible for reimbursement of these costs. Some reception or integration organisations may also contribute to translation expenses.

The recognition procedure itself may involve administrative fees. However, applicants for international protection, recognised refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection are generally exempt from these fees. In some cases, people receiving social assistance from the CPAS/OCMW or referred by employment services such as VDAB, Actiris or Forem may also benefit from fee exemptions.

Legalisation of the translation

Depending on your country of origin and the documents you submit, additional authentication or legalisation may be required. The authority responsible for your recognition procedure will inform you if this is necessary. If you are unsure, ask the competent authority before starting any additional administrative procedures.

Diploma recognition in French

If you wish to have your diploma recognised in the French-speaking part of Belgium, you must apply for an equivalence through the Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles (Wallonia-Brussels Federation).

Before starting the procedure, it is advisable to consult the official website or contact the competent service to determine which procedure applies to your situation and which documents you will need.

Diploma Recognition in Dutch

If you live in Flanders or wish to continue your studies there, NARIC Vlaanderen is responsible for recognising most foreign diplomas.

Depending on your situation, you may apply for:

• recognition of the level of your studies;
• recognition of a specific diploma.

You will generally be asked to provide:

• a copy of your identity document;
• your diploma;
• transcripts or records of your studies, if available;
• information about your study programme;
• documents relating to internships or relevant professional experience, where applicable.

If you no longer possess all your educational documents because you fled your country, NARIC Vlaanderen may still be able to assess your application based on alternative evidence. Do not hesitate to contact the service to explain your individual situation.

Helpful organisations

You can also ask for help from following organisations for your diploma recognition:

• Brussels: BAPA organisations (BAPA BXL, VIA, Convivial), Bon and Ciré
• Wallonie: All welcoming new-commers centres (CRI)
• Flanders: All the branches of Agentschap Integratie & Inburgering including Atlas and In Gent.

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Tips for LGBTQIA+ individuals

• If you had to flee your country urgently and no longer have access to your diploma or academic transcripts, explain this when applying for recognition.
• The competent authorities may take into account the specific situation of refugees and beneficiaries of international protection who are unable to contact the authorities in their country of origin.
• Do not hesitate to ask a specialised organisation, your social worker or your lawyer for help in preparing your application.