Recognition of a foreign pedagogist or educator qualification

The pedagogist and the socio-pedagogical professional educator are professions of the educational field. Recognition of the qualification obtained abroad, for those intending to practise them in Italy, falls to the Ministry of University and Research.

Two professions of the educational field

The pedagogist and the socio-pedagogical professional educator work in educational and training services. The two figures, introduced by Law 205/2017, are now governed by Law 55/2024, which has reserved their practice and established the register and the Order of the pedagogical and educational professions. In Italy the pedagogist accesses the profession with a master’s degree in the pedagogical field, and the socio-pedagogical professional educator with the degree in Education and Training Sciences.

Who grants recognition

For a person who has obtained abroad the qualification that, in the country of origin, gives access to one of these professions, the authority competent for recognition is the Ministry of University and Research. Recognition of the professional qualification is distinct from academic recognition of the title, which follows the university route.

Qualifications obtained in the European Union

For qualifications obtained in a country of the Union, in the European Economic Area or in Switzerland, the general system of recognition under Directive 2005/36/EC applies. In place of the Declaration of Value, the certificate issued by the authority of the country of origin applies, attesting access to or authorisation to practise the profession under the law of that country.

Qualifications obtained in non-EU countries

For qualifications obtained outside the Union, recognition requires the Declaration of Value issued by the Italian diplomatic or consular mission, the academic qualification and the transcript of examinations with an official translation and, depending on the country, legalisation or an Apostille under the Hague Convention of 1961.

Compensation measures

Where the foreign background presents substantial differences from that required in Italy, recognition may be made subject to a compensation measure, in the form of an aptitude test or an adaptation period. Documented professional experience is taken into account in the assessment.

From recognition to practice

Under Law 55/2024, practice of the two professions is reserved to those entered in the register kept by the Order of the pedagogical and educational professions. The decree recognising the foreign qualification is the precondition for registration, in accordance with the rules of access laid down by the legislation.

Legal references: Law 205/2017 art. 1, paragraphs 594 et seq., Law 55/2024, Directive 2005/36/EC, Directive 2013/55/EU, Legislative Decree 206/2007, Legislative Decree 15/2016, Hague Convention of 5 October 1961.