How to recognize a foreign university degree in Spain?

The recognition of university degrees obtained in foreign educational systems is regulated at the national level in Royal Decree 889/2022, of October 18.

This regulation establishes three procedures for the recognition of foreign degrees at university level:

• Homologation. The homologation qualifies for the exercise of a regulated profession in Spain.

• Equivalence.The declaration of equivalence certifies the academic level of the degree (degree or master's degree).

• Validation. The validation validates subjects of a degree to continue university studies.

Nationals of the European Union, the European Economic Area and Switzerland with official university degrees leading to a regulated profession may apply for the recognition of their degrees to exercise this profession in Spain in application of Directive 2005/36/EC.

These awards are the responsibility of each of the tutoring ministries.

The Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities is competent for the recognition of university teachers.

In order to ensure agility and efficiency in the management of applications, the Ministerial Order, of October 23, 2024, was approved, approving instructions on the management of the procedures of homologation and declaration of equivalence of university degrees obtained in foreign educational systems.