Diploma Translation and Equivalence in Belgium: NARIC Guide and Procedures

Having a foreign diploma recognised in Belgium is essential to access many regulated occupations, pursue higher education, or validate your qualification level with an employer. But before you even submit your application to NARIC or ARES, you must have your documents translated by an SPF Justice sworn translator. This guide explains everything you need to know.

NARIC or ARES: Which Institution for Your Recognition?

In Belgium, foreign diploma recognition is managed by two bodies depending on your objective:

• NARIC Wallonia-Brussels Federation: for higher education degrees (bachelor, master, doctorate) obtained outside Belgium, intended for academic or professional use in Wallonia or Brussels (French-speaking side).
• NARIC Vlaanderen: for the same types of degrees, but for use in Flanders or Brussels (Dutch-speaking side).
• ARES: the Academy for Research and Higher Education also coordinates the procedure for certain specific degrees (regulated professions such as doctor, lawyer, architect, engineer).
• SPF Employment: for the recognition of professional qualifications in federally regulated professions.

Before starting translations, identify which body is competent for your situation. This will prevent you from translating documents that the relevant institution does not require.

Documents to Translate for Diploma Recognition

The list of documents to provide varies by institution and degree level, but the most frequently requested documents for sworn translation are:

• The original diploma: front and back, including all details (date, institution, field, distinction).
• Transcripts: for each year of study in the programme concerned.
• The diploma supplement: if issued by the foreign institution (equivalent to an ECTS sheet).
• The programme of study description: course descriptions, contact hours, ECTS or equivalent credits.
• Birth certificate: to establish the identity of the diploma holder.
• Internship or professional experience certificates: if required by your file.

The Recognition Procedure Step by Step

• Step 1. Verify legalisation. Your foreign diplomas must generally be legalised (apostille or consular legalisation) before submission. Check with the competent NARIC body for requirements specific to your country of origin.
• Step 2. Have your documents translated. Send your legalised documents to a translation agency with SPF Justice sworn translators. Specify that the translations are intended for NARIC or ARES.
• Step 3. Compile your complete file. Gather originals, legalisations and sworn translations, as well as the recognition application form available on the competent body's website.
• Step 4. Submit your file. Send your complete file by registered post or deliver it in person. Keep copies of all your documents.
• Step 5. Await the decision. Processing times vary between 3 and 6 months depending on the institution and the complexity of the file.

Timelines and Costs to Factor In

The procedure for recognising a foreign diploma in Belgium takes time. Here are realistic timelines to plan for:

• Document legalisation: 2 to 8 weeks depending on the country.
• Sworn translations: 3 to 7 business days (express available).
• NARIC file review: 3 to 6 months.
• Translation costs: €150 to €400 depending on document volume.
• NARIC file fees: variable, generally between €0 and €200.

Start your procedures at least 6 to 9 months before the date by which you need recognition (start of employment, university enrolment, etc.).