CertiDocsThe practical guide
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 processNARIC: no apostille for these records
Link to this sectionNARIC-Vlaanderen requires no apostille or legalisation. Use its personalised list to check the required records and translations. Do not assume this exemption applies to a French Community procedure or another recipient.
What is diploma equivalence?
Link to this sectionEquivalence 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.
What documents are needed?
Link to this sectionStart 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 instructions of the service responsible for your education level.
Missing transcript or different name: what to prepare?
Link to this sectionBefore ordering a translation, identify gaps in your application. For NARIC, an unavailable record or a name discrepancy needs to be explained; translation does not replace evidence. Adapt this preparation to the official list.
- Missing transcript: contact the institution. If it can no longer issue the record, request written confirmation.
- Different name: prepare the official record linking the name on your diploma to your current identity, such as a marriage certificate.
- Practical organisation: list records as “available / to request / translation to check”. Keep each original clearly paired with its translation.
Taking a Belgian diploma abroad?
Link to this sectionThis differs from applying for equivalence of a foreign diploma in Belgium. Identify the authentication authority for the Belgian institution, then the destination’s recognition requirements. Our guide to using Belgian diplomas abroad covers records, format and translation.
NARIC: does every application document need translating?
Link to this sectionPrepare a quote document by document: a diploma, transcript and course programme may require different treatment. This table concerns NARIC-Vlaanderen. Start with the personalised document list for your application.
| Your situation | What to check | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| Diploma in French | French is an accepted language for the diploma. | Identify other documents in a different language before requesting a quote for the whole file. |
| Diploma in Arabic | A Belgian sworn translation into Dutch, French, English or German is required. | Tell the translator your chosen language and attach NARIC’s instructions to the request. |
| Course programme needing translation | Depending on the language, NARIC provides for a 5-10-line summary per course. | Check this option before asking for a price to translate an entire lengthy programme. |
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
Gather documents
Gather your original diploma, transcript, identity document and any additional documents required by the competent authority.
Translate the required documents
Check the accepted languages for each record, then ask a translator in the national register for any required sworn translations.
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.
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
Guides
On the same topic
Other steps to prepare. Diplomas and equivalence.
Diploma equivalence in Belgium: document checklist
Prepare the required records and check NARIC exemptions.
Study in Belgium with a foreign diploma
Distinguish admission, diploma recognition and documents needing translation.
Work in Belgium: foreign diploma recognition & single permit
Separate employer requirements, permits and recognition.
For your application
Related documents
Common translations
Budget
Prepare your translation request
Choose the document type in the form to see your fixed price.
One fixed price per complete document, regardless of page count. Confirm the price before submitting. See all prices
Frequently asked questions
+−How much does a diploma equivalence application cost?
+−How long does it take to get the equivalence?
+−What is the difference between NARIC and the Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles?
+−Which documents need to be translated?
+−What can I do if my equivalence is refused?
+−Does my diploma need an apostille?
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.
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