How to get your foreign qualifications recognised in the Netherlands

Are you moving to the Netherlands for work, study or a new adventure? One of the first things you may need to do is get your foreign degree recognised. This step is important if you want to study further, find a job, or work in certain professions. Don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it sounds.

What is degree evaluation in the Netherlands?

Degree evaluation is all about checking whether your foreign diploma or degree meets the Dutch standards. The goal is to determine if your education is comparable in level and content to what is offered in the Netherlands.

This is especially important if you want to:

• Continue your studies at a Dutch university
• Work in regulated fields like healthcare, engineering or teaching
• Apply for a visa or residence permit

The Dutch Ministry of Education works with an organisation called IDW (International Credential Evaluation) to handle these checks.

Why should you evaluate your foreign degree?

While some employers are happy to simply accept a degree from a globally-recognised university, there are some circumstances when getting your qualifications properly recognised is beneficial. Here are some good reasons to have your degree evaluated:

• Higher education: You might need proof that your degree is equivalent to a Dutch diploma to get into a master’s or other study programme.
• Job opportunities: Employers often want to know how your degree compares to Dutch qualifications, especially in regulated professions.
• Professional licensing: Some jobs, like doctors or teachers, require official recognition before you can start working.
• Immigration: A recognised degree can help with your visa or residence permit application.

What does the IDW do?

The IDW is the official body in the Netherlands responsible for verifying foreign degrees. The first thing that they do is compare your diploma to Dutch standards. In some cases, you may need to take further steps to get your qualifications recognised, particularly if you want to work in a regulated profession. They will advise you on what those steps are and guide you through the process.

The IDW also issues advice for schools, universities and employers, so that third parties can better understand your qualifications and what equivalent Dutch levels they represent.

How to get your degree evaluated

Here's what you need to do in order to get your degree or diploma recognised.

1. Gather your documents

You’ll need:

• A certified copy of your diploma or degree
• Official transcripts or a diploma supplement (with your courses and grades)
• Proof of identity (like a passport)
• Official translations of documents that aren’t in Dutch, English, French or German

2. Apply to the IDW

Next, visit the IDW website and complete the application form. There, you upload your documents and pay the evaluation fee. This is usually between €150 and €300. If you are claiming any of the below benefits, you should talk to your UWV contact about getting these costs covered:

• Sickness benefit (ZW)
• Invalidity benefit (WAO)
• Incapacity benefit for self-employed persons (WAZ)
• Work capacity benefit (WIA)
• Incapacity benefit for young disabled persons (WAJONG)

3. Wait for the results

The evaluation can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the complexity of your case. Sometimes, the IDW might ask you for more information.

4. Read your evaluation report

The report will tell you:

• How your degree compares to Dutch qualifications
• Whether it’s recognised for your chosen field or if you need to take extra steps
• Recommendations if your degree doesn’t fully match Dutch standards

What happens next?

What happens next depends on what you want to do. If you intend to study further, and your degree is recognised by the IDW report, you can start applying to Dutch universities. You can also show your IDW report to potential employers if they request it, to show that your degree is of the same standard as you would have received from a Dutch university.

If your degree is not fully recognised, the IDW usually advises how you can achieve the level you want to be at. This will often involve taking extra courses or training.

If you intend to work in a regulated profession, such as healthcare, teaching or engineering, your evaluation might be sent to a professional body for more checks. They’ll let you know if you need extra certification or training.

Move to the next level

Getting your foreign degree recognised in the Netherlands is a key step for your future. It can open the door to study, work and settling in the country. The process takes a bit of time and paperwork, but it’s worth it. Ready to start your Dutch adventure? Get your degree evaluated and take the next step toward your goals!