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Diploma equivalence in Belgium

The competent authority depends on your diploma and plans in Belgium. Check the required documents and accepted languages before ordering a translation.

Understand the process
Last updated Editorial lead : Hiliyeh Bashir5 sources

What is diploma equivalence?

Equivalence compares a foreign diploma with a Belgian qualification or level. The process depends on your purpose: study, employment or a regulated profession. Ask the institution or authority concerned which service in the Flemish, French or German-speaking Community is competent.

Official sourceBelgium.be - Recognition of a foreign diplomaFWB - EquiSupNARIC Vlaanderen

What documents are needed?

Start with the authority’s document list: diploma, transcripts, identity and supporting records. Translation is not automatic. For NARIC-Vlaanderen, check the language instructions for each document; for the FWB, follow the service responsible for your education level.

Official sourceFWB - EquiSupNARIC VlaanderenNARIC-Vlaanderen - Documents, translations and originalsFPS Justice - National register of sworn translators and interpreters

Documents to prepare

  • Diploma in the format required by the authority
  • Transcript / diploma supplement
  • Valid identity document
  • Sworn translation if the document language requires it
  • Authentication formalities only if requested
  • Completed application form

Steps to follow

  1. Gather documents

    Gather your original diploma, transcript, identity document and any additional documents required by the competent authority.

  2. Translate the required documents

    Check the accepted languages for each record, then ask a translator in the national register for any required sworn translations.

  3. Submit to the competent authority

    Follow the instructions of the service responsible for your intended use. Your own language alone does not determine the competent authority.

  4. Receive the decision

    Track your application with the authority. Timing and the decision depend on the procedure and any additional evidence required.

Good to know

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For your application

Diplomas and equivalence

Studies, work, regulated professions and equivalence routes.

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Frequently asked questions

+How much does a diploma equivalence application cost?
Fees depend on the authority, procedure and any exemptions. Check the current official fee schedule and request a separate quote for required translations.
+How long does it take to get the equivalence?
There is no single processing time for every Belgian equivalence procedure. Check the authority’s current estimate for your application type.
+What is the difference between NARIC and the Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles?
NARIC-Vlaanderen handles applications for the Flemish Community (Dutch-language education), while the equivalence service of the Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles handles applications for the French Community (French-language education).
+Which documents need to be translated?
Translation depends on the document and accepted languages. NARIC normally accepts diplomas in French, Dutch, English or German without translation.
+What can I do if my equivalence is refused?
You can file an appeal with the competent authority. It is recommended to check the reasons for refusal and, if necessary, provide additional documents or a corrected translation.
+Does my diploma need an apostille?
NARIC-Vlaanderen does not require an apostille or legalisation. Check other authorities’ own document lists.

Official source

Official sources used

The references below are the public sources used to document this page. The competent authority always retains the final decision.

Official sourceBelgium.be - Recognition of a foreign diplomaOfficial sourceFWB - EquiSupOfficial sourceNARIC VlaanderenOfficial sourceNARIC-Vlaanderen - Documents, translations and originalsOfficial sourceFPS Justice - National register of sworn translators and interpreters

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