Recognising foreign degrees in Portugal is regulated by Decree-Law No. 66/2018 and related rules. It ensures clarity, uniformity, and fairness for holders of foreign qualifications seeking academic or professional equivalence in Portugal.
Because the process is centralised and transparent, applicants must understand the available recognition modalities, required documentation, and applicable deadlines. Careful preparation avoids delays and ensures compliance with Portuguese higher education law.
Modalities of Recognition
Recognition of foreign degrees in Portugal can occur under three distinct modalities, depending on the nature of the degree.
- Automatic recognition applies to foreign degrees and diplomas officially equivalent to Portuguese degrees, without case-by-case analysis.
- Level recognition acknowledges that a foreign degree corresponds to a Portuguese academic degree (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral). This assessment is based on general comparability criteria, without detailed content evaluation.
- Specific recognition is granted when the foreign degree is proven, case by case, to match the level, duration, and content of a Portuguese degree in a given field. This recognition may involve knowledge tests or additional assessments.
Application: The degree holder or legal representative must submit the request to a Portuguese public higher education institution or the Directorate-General for Higher Education.
Applicants must provide authenticated copies of diplomas or official certificates, and in some cases certified translations. The original institution must supply the final classification and grading scale if grade conversion is requested.
Applications are digital by default, ensuring efficiency and transparency. Each degree can only be submitted for recognition once.
Processing and Deadlines
Automatic and level recognition are generally handled as administrative procedures with shorter timelines.
Specific recognition involves a detailed review and must be concluded within 90 days, unless the applicant is required to correct deficiencies, which must be addressed within 30 days.
As such, this structure balances efficiency with the need for academic rigour.
Fees
Each request is subject to a single fee, which cannot exceed the actual cost of the service. Applicants should confirm the exact amount with the chosen institution before submission.
Legal Effects of Recognition
Recognition of foreign degrees in Portugal confers the same rights as the equivalent Portuguese academic degree. This includes the right to use a converted final grade, if requested.
However, professional practice in regulated fields may still require compliance with additional statutory requirements, such as registration with professional guilds (Ordens Profissionais) or passing qualification exams.
Additional Considerations
The recognition process is fully digitised and accessible online. In humanitarian emergencies, simplified procedures may apply to verify the authenticity of degrees.
All recognitions are centrally registered and can be verified through a unique identifier, ensuring transparency and public reliability.
Conclusion
Recognising degrees in Portugal gives foreign graduates equal academic rights and opportunities. Choosing the correct recognition modality, automatic, level, or specific, depends on the nature of the qualification and the applicant’s goals.
Although recognition grants academic equivalence, applicants must remember that certain professions require additional licensing. Professional guidance can ensure a smooth process and compliance with all Portuguese legal requirements.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or academic advice. Applicants should consult the relevant Portuguese authorities or professional advisors before initiating recognition procedures.
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