If you studied outside Spain and now want to work or continue your education here, you’re probably wondering: how can I make my foreign degree valid in this country? In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know to get it done—no unnecessary complications.
At Legal Allies, we specialize in translating legal jargon into something practical and understandable, so you don’t get lost in the process.
What Does Recognition of Foreign Degrees in Spain Mean?
Recognition of foreign degrees in Spain is a legal process that grants official validity to an academic qualification earned abroad, making it comparable to a Spanish degree. Depending on your goal, there are three main types:
- Homologation: For degrees that allow you to practice regulated professions such as medicine, law, or architecture.
- Validation: For those who have completed part of their studies abroad and want to continue at a Spanish institution.
- Equivalence: For validating the academic level of a degree, without necessarily aiming to practice a specific profession.
General Requirements to Recognize Foreign Degrees in Spain
Documents and conditions may vary depending on the country and type of degree, but common requirements include:
- Certified copy of the degree and academic transcript.
- Official sworn translation if the documents are not in Spanish.
- Study programs detailing the content and duration of courses.
- Proof of payment of the administrative fee.
- In some cases, additional language or subject-specific exams.
Legal Allies Tip: A high-quality sworn translation is essential. Avoid delays by making sure your documents meet all requirements from the start.
Where Do You Apply for Degree Recognition?
- For university degrees: Through the Spanish Ministry of Universities, either online or in person with a scheduled appointment.
- For non-university degrees (like high school diplomas): At the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training.
- For regulated professions: Through the relevant ministry based on the profession—e.g., the Ministry of Health for doctors, or the Ministry of Justice for lawyers.
How Long Does the Recognition Process Take?
By law, the administration has six months to issue a resolution. However, this deadline is not always met. Additional months may be needed if extra documents are requested or if there’s a high volume of applications.
How Can Legal Allies Help You with the Recognition Process?
Legal Allies has built a platform to simplify this process and support you at every step. Our team:
- Creates and updates practical legal guides in 14 languages.
- Trains a virtual legal assistant to answer common questions about recognition and validation.
- Includes lawyers specialized in immigration and academic recognition.
- Offers multilingual support and personalized advice.
- Notifies you of key deadlines and guides you through proper documentation submission.
Our goal is to help you move forward confidently—without wasting time or making mistakes that could delay your academic validation in Spain.
Recognizing a foreign degree in Spain may seem complex, but with the right information and professional support, it’s absolutely doable. Legal Allies is here to guide you through this process with clarity, efficiency, and the legal expertise you need.
