Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Most common questions

How do I proceed to have my foreign diploma recognised?

How do I proceed to have my foreign diploma recognised?

1. Check with the list below or check on this website if your profession is regulated: www.sbfi.admin.ch/agencies-responsible
    
   
2. If your profession is included in the list, respectively if it is regulated:
   Check on the list or on the website which authority in Switzerland is responsible for the recognition of your diploma and contact them directly.
    
   If your profession is not on the list, or if it is not regulated: you have access to the labour market without recognition of the qualification acquired abroad. The decision to hire you rests solely with the employer according to its needs and requirements. However, you can also apply for a level certification from SERI (vocational education and training) or swissuniversities (higher education) depending on the type of diploma you hold.

If you are in doubt as to whether or not the profession you wish to practise is regulated, send an email with a scan of your degree to [e-mail]

List of regulated professional activities in Switzerland (PDF, 1 MB, 30.09.2020)

I do not find my occupation in the list of regulated activities. What should I do?

I do not find my occupation in the list of regulated activities. What should I do?

If the professional activity that you wish to carry out is not included in this list, this means that your occupation is not regulated in Switzerland. As a result, you have access to the labour market without formal recognition of your foreign qualifications. It is up to employers to decide whether to hire you on the basis of their needs and requirements.

If you have wish to carry out a professional activity that is not on the list, you nevertheless have the possibility of applying for recognition of your qualification. You will in most cases obtain a certificate attesting to your level, which will facilitate your contacts with potential employers and/or Swiss authorities.

Holder of a higher education qualification

Holder of upper-secondary vocational qualification or tertiary-level professional qualification

Information on the Swiss education system

I would like to enrol in education and training in Switzerland. The institution requires recognition of my foreign qualification in order to be admitted to the study programme. How should I proceed?

I would like to enrol in education and training in Switzerland. The institution requires recognition of my foreign qualification in order to be admitted to the study programme. How should I proceed?

The purpose of recognition of foreign qualifications is to enable people to enter the Swiss labour market and carry out a professional activity for which they qualified abroad.

When it comes to admission to studies (higher education or other), we talk about academic recognition. The institution of your choice is exclusively responsible for making admission decisions. It is therefore up to the institution to decide whether you may enrol and to inform you of the terms and conditions applied.

Can I recognise / validate my professional experience?

Can I recognise / validate my professional experience?

In Switzerland, there are specific procedures to validate your professional experience (minimum five years). These vary according to the canton you are established in.

More information about vocational qualifications for adults can be found:

on SERI’s website: www.sbfi.admin.ch/berufsabschluss-erwachsene

on the Vocational Education and Training Portal: www.berufsbildungplus.ch

General questions - overview

What is a recognition certificate and when do I need one?

What is a recognition certificate and when do I need one?

Recognition certificates confirm that the foreign qualification is equivalent to a corresponding Swiss qualification.

If you hold a qualification for a professional occupation that can only legally be carried out by holders of a specific Swiss qualification, then you will need to obtain a recognition certificate.

What is the difference between a “regulated” or “unregulated” professional activities?

What is the difference between a “regulated” or “unregulated” professional activities?

Regulated professional activities are defined as activities that can only be legally carried out by holders of a specific qualification. Holders of foreign qualifications in a regulated field must therefore obtain a recognition certificate from the corresponding agency before they can work in Switzerland.

Holders of foreign qualifications who which to carry out an unregulated professional activity are not required to obtain a recognition certificate in order to work in Switzerland. For example, occupations in the sector of industry, handcraft, commercial, trade, hospitality, construction, etc., are usually not regulated. It is up to employers to decide whether to hire you on the basis of labour market conditions and their needs.

List of regulated professional activities in Switzerland (PDF, 1 MB, 30.09.2020)

I do not find my occupation in the list of regulated activities. What should I do?

I do not find my occupation in the list of regulated activities. What should I do?

If the professional activity that you wish to carry out is not included in this list, this means that your occupation is not regulated in Switzerland. As a result, you have access to the labour market without formal recognition of your foreign qualifications. It is up to employers to decide whether to hire you on the basis of their needs and requirements.

If you have wish to carry out a professional activity that is not on the list, you nevertheless have the possibility of applying for recognition of your qualification. You will in most cases obtain a certificate attesting to your level, which will facilitate your contacts with potential employers and/or Swiss authorities.

Holder of a higher education qualification

Holder of upper-secondary vocational qualification or tertiary-level professional qualification

Information on the Swiss education system

Can I check on a list if my foreign diploma is recognized?

Can I check on a list if my foreign diploma is recognized?

All recognition of foreign qualifications is an individual process, i.e. each file is examined on a case-per-case basis, with various criteria being taken into account under applicable legislation, the specificities of the training, and even work experience. Due to the many different elements taken into account during a recognition procedure, such a list cannot be drawn up. Indeed, such a list would never accurately reflect the reality of practices.

However, there is an exception for the fields of architecture, medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmaceuticals, nursing and midwifery. For these sectoral professions educational standards are harmonised at European level. As a result, there is a list of automatically recognised qualifications. This list can be found in Directive 2005/36/CE. However, access to the labour market for these professions is authorised after the competent body has formally verified the foreign qualification.

Competent authorities for diploma recognition

Will I receive a Swiss qualification with the recognition certificate?

Will I receive a Swiss qualification with the recognition certificate?

No.

The competent authorities do not issue Swiss qualifications to individuals who obtain a recognition certificate for their foreign qualification.

A recognised foreign diploma has the same effects on the practice of the professional activity in Switzerland as the corresponding Swiss diploma.

However, the use of the title of a Swiss qualification is not permitted with a recognised foreign diploma.

Can I start working as soon as I receive the recognition decision or are there any other steps that need to be taken?

Can I start working as soon as I receive the recognition decision or are there any other steps that need to be taken?

A recognition decision of your qualification authorises you to work in your field. In nearly all cases, recognition is granted by a national body and therefore applies to all cantons. However, for some professional activities, in addition to the qualification, a license to practice must be granted. This license to practice is very often issued at the cantonal level. This applies regardless of whether the qualification was issued in another country or in Switzerland.

Please contact the canton where you wish to work to obtain further information.

How long does a recognition decision remain valid?

How long does a recognition decision remain valid?

When a competent Swiss authority recognises a foreign qualification, then this decision essentially remains valid for an unlimited period of time.

Please note that the fact that recognition is valid for an unlimited period of time does not exempt you from having to regularly attend continuing education and training courses, as for doctors, for example.

In addition, for some regulated occupations, the requirement level may be modified in exceptional situations by a legislative amendments. In such cases, a recognition decision that made it possible for a regulated professional activity to be carried out may no longer suffice. The same would, however, apply to Swiss qualifications too.

90 days per year in a regulated professional activity. What do I need to do?

90 days per year in a regulated professional activity. What do I need to do?

EU/EFTA citizens who are established in an EU/EFTA country and wish to carry out a regulated professional activity for a maximum of 90 working days per calendar year have the possibility to provide services in Switzerland. These workers must submit a declaration form to SERI before services are provided.

Detailed information about SERI’s declaration procedure can be found here: www.sbfi.admin.ch/declaration

If your foreign qualification has already been recognised, then you must also submit a declaration form.

How can I informally assess my own level of education and training with a corresponding level in the Swiss education system?

How can I informally assess my own level of education and training with a corresponding level in the Swiss education system?

There are several ways to informally map the level of a foreign qualification within the Swiss education system:

• The European Qualifications Framework (EQF): Comparison tool for qualifications obtained within Europe.
• The International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED): Comparison tool for qualifications obtained outside Europe.

Information about the EQF and ISCED level is sometimes included in the diploma supplement accompanying the foreign qualification. The institution that awarded the qualification should also be able to provide you with the information you need.

Finally, it is possible to compare the education and training programme abroad with a comparable Swiss one by taking into account, for example, the duration and content of the education and training. All Swiss professional occupations can be found in SERI’s List of Vocational and Professional Qualifications.

Please note that most of the above-mentioned instruments are intended for information purposes only and do not necessarily give rise to formal recognition.

I cannot find my question in this FAQ, who can help me?

I cannot find my question in this FAQ, who can help me?

A complete explanation of the recognition procedures and conditions as well as the various agencies responsible can be found on the following webpage: www.sbfi.admin.ch/agencies-responsible

For questions about a recognition procedure with SERI, you will find additional information under: Frequently asked questions SERI

The national contact point remains available to answer specific questions regarding recognition to which the website does not provide an answer:

T [phone]

[e-mail]

Recognition procedure in Switzerland

How do I proceed to have my foreign diploma recognised?

How do I proceed to have my foreign diploma recognised?

1. Check with the list below or check on this website if your profession is regulated: www.sbfi.admin.ch/agencies-responsible
    
   
2. If your profession is included in the list, respectively if it is regulated:
   Check on the list or on the website which authority in Switzerland is responsible for the recognition of your diploma and contact them directly.
    
   If your profession is not on the list, or if it is not regulated: you have access to the labour market without recognition of the qualification acquired abroad. The decision to hire you rests solely with the employer according to its needs and requirements. However, you can also apply for a level certification from SERI (vocational education and training) or swissuniversities (higher education) depending on the type of diploma you hold.

If you are in doubt as to whether or not the profession you wish to practise is regulated, send an email with a scan of your degree to [e-mail]

List of regulated professional activities in Switzerland (PDF, 1 MB, 30.09.2020)

Is recognition of one’s foreign qualification always necessary?

Is recognition of one’s foreign qualification always necessary?

No.

Recognition of your foreign qualification is only mandatory if the professional activity that you wish to carry out in Switzerland is regulated. In other words, if the professional activity that you wish to carry out requires the possession of specific qualifications (e.g. dentist, physiotherapist, etc.).

You will find the list of regulated professional activities and the authorities that grant recognition here: www.sbfi.admin.ch/agencies-responsible

How much does a recognition procedure cost?

How much does a recognition procedure cost?

A recognition procedure is usually not free of charge. The amount varies according to the different competent authorities and the respective procedures. Generally speaking, the costs of a procedure are between CHF 150 and CHF 1000. Additional charges may apply if compensatory measures are needed.

Please contact the authority responsible for recognition of your qualification directly for more detailed information: www.sbfi.admin.ch/agencies-responsible

Will I have to take an examination or any other courses to compensate for possible gaps in knowledge or skills?

Will I have to take an examination or any other courses to compensate for possible gaps in knowledge or skills?

A recognition of foreign qualifications is always an individual process, i.e. each file is examined on a case-per-case basis, with various criteria being taken into account under applicable legislation, the specificities of the training, and even work experience.

During a recognition procedure, if the competent authority finds substantial differences between the content of the foreign and the Swiss education, it may require compensatory measures before granting recognition. These can take the form of an internship or an examination.

It is not possible to know before the assessment of your case whether compensation measures will be necessary.

What is the language level required to apply for a recognition?

What is the language level required to apply for a recognition?

Proficiency in a national language of Switzerland (French, German, Italian) can be requested when it is essential to the pursuit of a regulated professional activity. Requirements may vary depending on the profession, from level B2 to C2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

For more information about required levels of language proficiency for a given regulated professional activity, please contact the authority competent for the recognition of your qualification: www.sbfi.admin.ch/agencies-responsible

If you wish to carry out a professional activity that is not regulated in Switzerland, the decision on whether to hire you rests exclusively with the employer.

Foreign qualifications for which a recognition is not possible

Recognition of qualifications is not possible for all training acquired abroad, in particular for the following educational pathways or certificates:

Compulsory school (lower-secondary level)

Compulsory school (lower-secondary level)

In Switzerland, there is no competent authority responsible for the recognition of foreign compulsory school diploma. In fact, there is no legal basis for the recognition of foreign general education qualifications. Such certificates do not prepare one for work in a specific professional activity.

If  you lack upper secondary level qualification, of if your occupation does not allow you to find work, you should consider pursuing training in the desired field or undergoing training in a different one. In Switzerland, there are opportunities for adults to obtain vocational qualifications. Specific procedures are proposed by the competent cantonal authorities. More information about vocational qualifications for adults can be found:

on SERI’s website: www.sbfi.admin.ch/berufsabschluss-erwachsene

on the Vocational Education and Training Portal: www.berufsbildungplus.ch

Upper secondary school-leaving certificates (general baccalaureate)

Upper secondary school-leaving certificates (general baccalaureate)

In Switzerland, there is no competent authority responsible for the recognition of foreign upper-secondary level general education qualifications (i.e. general baccalaureate). In fact, there is no legal basis for the recognition of foreign general education qualifications. Such certificates entitle the holder to enrol in higher education but do not prepare one for work in a specific professional activity.

However, you will find helpful information about the admission to Swiss higher education institutions on the website of swissuniversities: Recognition of foreign upper secondary school-leaving certificates

If you wish to study at a higher education institution in Switzerland, you need to contact the higher education institution that you wish to attend. That institution will then determine whether you are eligible for admission.

Continuing education and training qualification

Continuing education and training qualification

In Switzerland, there is no competent authority for the recognition of non-formal continuing education and training qualifications (in particular CAS, DAS, MAS, etc.).

Indeed, there is no legal basis for the recognition of these qualifications, which do not correspond to the learning of a professional activity as such. Therefore, no recognition can be granted for this type of qualification. Continuing education and training generally allows one to develop skills in the desired field of activity. These certificates can be presented in an application file; in such cases, it is up to employers to decide how much value to give them.

Qualification was awarded by a private school or institution

Qualification was awarded by a private school or institution

If the private institution that issued the qualification is recognised or accredited by the country of origin, it is possible to submit an application for recognition to the competent authority. However, if the foreign qualification was awarded by an institution not recognised by its state, it does not meet the requirements for recognition in Switzerland.

The legal framework governs only the recognition of professional qualifications that are state-issued or state-recognised in the country of origin.

If the private qualification allows you to work in an unregulated professional activity in Switzerland (for example, the hospitality sector), you have access to the labour market without any formalities. The reputation of the private school is likely to play an important role in contacts with employers.

A partially completed training

A partially completed training

Competent authorities may only initiate the recognition procedure if the training obtained abroad is fully completed.

What should I do if it is impossible to obtain recognition of my foreign qualification?

What should I do if it is impossible to obtain recognition of my foreign qualification?

If the professional activity that you wish to pursue is not regulated, you have access to the labour market and can apply for job offers with your foreign qualification.

If you have difficulty finding work, you will probably have to consider pursuing education and training in a different field or higher level training in the same field. Please contact the vocational, educational and career guidance office in your canton of residence. They can provide information and advice on all matters pertaining to training, professional activities and careers in Switzerland. The services are intended for both young people and adults. The addresses of the cantonal centres can be found under this link: www.berufsberatung.ch/biz

These guidance offices will also be able to inform you about the available options in your canton for vocational qualifications for adults. More information on this subject can be found here: www.berufsbildungplus.ch

Working in Switzerland

A potential employer requires recognition of my qualification in order to carry out a professional activity, which is not regulated in Switzerland. Is recognition really mandatory in this case?

A potential employer requires recognition of my qualification in order to carry out a professional activity, which is not regulated in Switzerland. Is recognition really mandatory in this case?

No specific qualifications are required in order to carry out an unregulated professional activity. In other words, recognition of your foreign qualification is not mandatory.

The lack of regulation means that there is no legal barrier to employment. However, potential employers are free to establish their own selection criteria and to hire you according to the prevailing conditions on the labour market and their needs.

Can I recognise / validate my professional experience?

Can I recognise / validate my professional experience?

In Switzerland, there are specific procedures to validate your professional experience (minimum five years). These vary according to the canton you are established in.

More information about vocational qualifications for adults can be found:

on SERI’s website: www.sbfi.admin.ch/berufsabschluss-erwachsene

on the Vocational Education and Training Portal: www.berufsbildungplus.ch

Where can I find help to enter the Swiss labour market?

Where can I find help to enter the Swiss labour market?

For any advice concerning your professional life in Switzerland, please contact the vocational, educational and career guidance office of your canton of residence. Guidance offices can provide information and advice on all matters pertaining to training, professional activities and careers for young people and adults.

The addresses of cantonal offices can be found here: www.berufsberatung.ch/biz

I am a refugee in Switzerland. What opportunities exist for me to integrate into the labour market?

I am a refugee in Switzerland. What opportunities exist for me to integrate into the labour market?

Like anyone from a country outside the European Union, you benefit from the recognition possibilities provided for by Swiss law. Please check who to contact for recognition of your diploma under: www.sbfi.admin.ch/agencies-responsible

For general questions about employment and work permits, you will find detailed information on the website of the State Secretariat for Migration: www.sem.admin.ch

We also suggest that you contact the vocational, educational and career guidance office in your canton of residence. They can provide information and advice on all matters pertaining to training, professional activities and careers in Switzerland. The services are intended for both young people and adults. The addresses of cantonal offices can be found here: www.berufsberatung.ch/biz

I have questions regarding my salary in Switzerland. Who can help me?

I have questions regarding my salary in Switzerland. Who can help me?

Competent authorities for the recognition of foreign qualifications are not directly responsible for questions regarding wages.

In the case of employees with foreign qualifications, employers are required to check whether the conditions are met for a specific minimum wage category as defined in the corresponding collective labour agreement. The employee in question must provide the employer with information concerning his/her training abroad and submit to the employer the required certificates.

You can find more salary-related information under this link: www.berufsberatung.ch/lohn

Studying in Switzerland

I would like to enrol in education and training in Switzerland. The institution requires recognition of my foreign qualification in order to be admitted to the study programme. How should I proceed?

I would like to enrol in education and training in Switzerland. The institution requires recognition of my foreign qualification in order to be admitted to the study programme. How should I proceed?

The purpose of recognition of foreign qualifications is to enable people to enter the Swiss labour market and carry out a professional activity for which they qualified abroad.

When it comes to admission to studies (higher education or other), we talk about academic recognition. The institution of your choice is exclusively responsible for making admission decisions. It is therefore up to the institution to decide whether you may enrol and to inform you of the terms and conditions applied.

I would like to study in Switzerland. Do I have access to a Swiss university with my foreign secondary school leaving certificate?

I would like to study in Switzerland. Do I have access to a Swiss university with my foreign secondary school leaving certificate?

You will find helpful information about the admission to Swiss higher education institutions on the website of swissuniversities: Recognition of foreign upper secondary school-leaving certificates

If you wish to study at a higher education institution in Switzerland, you need to contact the institution that you wish to attend. That institution will then determine whether you are eligible for admission.

Where can I find more information about the Swiss education system?

Where can I find more information about the Swiss education system?

More information about the Swiss education system can be found under:

Swiss Education System

www.berufsberatung.ch/aus-weiterbildung

Legal questions

Is the EU Directive 2013/55/EC applicable to Switzerland?

Is the EU Directive 2013/55/EC applicable to Switzerland?

No.

European Union (EU) Directive 2005/36/EC on the recognition of professional qualifications was adopted in 2005. It requires EU Member States to recognise the respective professional qualifications as equivalent and grant free access to the labour market to professionals. This Directive was amended in 2016 by Directive 2013/55/EU. The amendments do not yet apply to Switzerland.

For further information about Directive 2013/55/EU (PDF, 1 MB, 08.07.2019)

Brexit: What consequences will it have on Swiss recognition of qualifications awarded in the UK?

Brexit: What consequences will it have on Swiss recognition of qualifications awarded in the UK?

More detailed information about the agreement CH-UK and its consequences for Swiss and British citizens can be found on the SERI and SEM websites:

Brexit: State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation – SERI

The state Secretariat for Migration FAQ’s – SEM