Recognition of qualifications of third-country nationals
With the European Parliament, which is preparing its first-reading position.
Last active 15 Sept 2026
AI system. Responses may contain errors. Why this matters
What this bill does
In plain terms: what it changes and who it affects.
It creates common EU rules for recognising third-country nationals’ qualifications for jobs, regulated professions, and some visa or residence decisions.
Third-country nationals already in the EU or seeking to move there, especially those aiming for regulated professions or work-based residence permits. Employers and sectors facing shortages, especially healthcare, also benefit from faster and clearer recognition.
- Sets a common recognition framework for qualifications from third countries or other Member States.
- Creates a general system with compensation measures for substantial qualification gaps.
- Introduces automatic recognition for certain professions when training programmes are reviewed and published.
- Requires integrated or coordinated assessment in visa and residence procedures, with deadlines, remote filing, and limited fees.
Latest update
22 Sept 2026The most recent development in this bill's progress.
Commission proposal → 1st reading – European Parliament
Commission proposal → 1st reading – European Parliament
Documents
1 recentSourcesOEILEUR-LexEU Law Tracker