Background information
The 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol establish the right for beneficiaries of international protection to access education and employment, making the recognition of their foreign qualifications and validation of skills essential prerequisites.
In accordance with the qualification directive (2011/95/EU), (QD), Member States are required to ensure equal treatment between beneficiaries of international protection and nationals regarding the recognition procedures for foreign diplomas, certificates and other evidence of formal qualifications. Member States are also mandated to facilitate full access for beneficiaries who are unable to provide documentary evidence of their qualifications to appropriate schemes for the assessment, validation and accreditation of their prior learning (Article 28 QD).
Furthermore, the directive emphasises the necessity of considering special measures to effectively address the practical difficulties encountered by beneficiaries of international protection in authenticating their foreign diplomas, certificates, or other evidence of formal qualifications. These challenges often arise due to the lack of documentary evidence and the inability to cover the costs related to recognition procedures (recital 44 QD).
Information provision messages
Inform beneficiaries of international protection on the below.
- The importance of having their qualifications recognised and their skills validated through formal processes. Emphasise the benefits, such as improved employment prospects and overall integration. Additionally, provide examples of how recognised qualifications can be used for further education or employment, emphasising their mandatory nature in certain situations (e.g. jobs, continuation of studies).
- The necessary steps for the recognition of qualifications and validation of skills, including information on the responsible institutions, required documents, and how to obtain the recognition.
- The procedures for the validation of skills and recognition of qualifications, including information on additional courses, practical assessments and competency tests.
- The common challenges faced by beneficiaries in the recognition and validation process, such as the lack of documents, the language barriers, the financial constraints, the complex procedures etc. Complement this information with examples of good practices, practical advice on how to overcome these challenges, and the available support services such as:
- counselling,
- file preparation,
- submission assistance.
- The contact information of stakeholders who assist with the recognition of qualifications and validation of skills.
Furthermore, provide tailored information for beneficiaries with special needs or those in vulnerable situations. Highlight any dedicated services, resources, or programmes designed to assist beneficiaries with disabilities, medical conditions, or other vulnerabilities. Additionally, offer guidance on how to access these specialised services and support networks.
Practical tips
- Provide one-on-one counselling or mentorship programs to guide beneficiaries through the process.
- Provide beneficiaries with details on resources for information on qualification recognition, such as websites and brochures.