Getting your diploma recognised

You have a diploma from abroad? Here you see when you need recognition and who does it.

Your diploma from abroad can be valid in Switzerland. Sometimes you need a recognition (Anerkennung) for this. It depends on your profession.

Regulated or not?

Some professions are regulated (governed by law). For example many professions in health care. Here you need recognition before you work.

Most professions are not regulated. You may work and apply directly. A level confirmation (Niveaubestätigung) can still help.

Who is responsible?

Different offices do the recognition. Often the SBFI is responsible (State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation). On anerkennung.swiss you find the right office for your profession.

Costs and duration at the SBFI

  • Level confirmation (Niveaubestätigung, non-regulated professions): CHF 350
  • Recognition (Anerkennung, regulated professions): CHF 550

For regulated professions it takes 4 months on average. For non-regulated professions it takes longer. In cases of hardship the fee can be lower.

Important

Your training must be completed. You need the diploma. Ask which translations are needed.

What you can do now

  1. Check on anerkennung.swiss if your profession is regulated.
  2. Collect your diploma, transcripts of grades and reference letters.
  3. Submit the application online to the SBFI or to the responsible office.
  4. Get help: BIZ Luzern or FABIA.

SBFI, FAQ zum Anerkennungsverfahren von Berufsqualifikationen (2026-09-21)

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