Getting your degree recognized in Spain
Many people don't need to recognize their degree at all. Others — doctors, nurses, architects, teachers, regulated engineers — can't work in their profession without it. Here's how to tell which group you're in, and how the process works.
Last reviewed: October 2026
Homologación vs equivalencia
| Homologación | Equivalencia | |
|---|---|---|
| What it gives you | Recognition to a specific Spanish degree that qualifies you for a regulated profession | Recognition of your academic level (bachelor's or master's) in a field |
| Lets you practise a regulated profession | Yes | No — academic and administrative effects only |
| Typical use | Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, architects, teachers, regulated engineers | Public-sector exams, further studies, showing employers your level |
Who needs homologación
- Health: doctor, nurse, dentist, pharmacist, physiotherapist, vet, optometrist, podiatrist, speech therapist, occupational therapist, dietitian, general health psychologist.
- Architecture: architect and technical architect.
- Regulated engineering: civil, industrial, telecommunications, aeronautical, agricultural, forestry, mining and naval engineering, and technical engineers.
- Teaching: pre-school and primary teachers, and secondary/vocational teachers (master's).
- Law: 'Abogado' can't be obtained by homologación. Foreign law graduates usually go through equivalencia, Spain's access master's and the state bar exam — we review your path case by case.
When you don't need it
- To study a master's or PhD in Spain: universities can admit you with your foreign degree after checking its level — no homologación needed (RD 822/2021, art. 18).
- For the EU Blue Card or highly-qualified permit: recognition is only required for regulated professions; otherwise your (apostilled) degree is enough.
- To work in non-regulated jobs — marketing, tech, business, design and most private-sector roles — employers decide; equivalencia is optional.
- Doctorates are recognized by Spanish universities, not by the Ministry.
You don't need to figure out the paperwork
Requirements change and depend on your nationality, your consulate and your family — that's exactly what we check for you. Send us a message and we'll tell you your best route, free.
- Free first consultation on WhatsApp to confirm your best route.
- Your personal document list for your nationality, consulate and family.
- We prepare, review and file everything — and follow it until there's a decision.
- Support after you land: TIE card, registration, bank, housing and schools.
Degree recognition: common questions
Do I need to homologate my degree to live in Spain?
No. Homologación is only needed to practise a regulated profession, such as medicine, nursing, architecture or teaching. Visas like the Digital Nomad or Non-Lucrative don't require it.
Can I do a master's in Spain without homologación?
Yes. Spanish universities can admit holders of foreign degrees after checking their level, without homologación. Admission doesn't recognize your degree for other purposes.
Not sure if you need it? Ask us
Tell us your nationality, your situation and who's coming with you. We'll reply on WhatsApp with your best route — free, no commitment.
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