German-Speaking Community Creates Recognition Route for Foreign Apprenticeship Qualifications (Belgium, June 2026)
The German-speaking Community created a legal basis for recognising foreign apprenticeship and master-craft qualifications. The route applies to qualifications comparable to the Community’s companion and master certificates, with healthcare professions excluded.
Source: Ostbelgien Bildung - Explanatory notice on the 1 June 2026 Education and Training Measures Decree
The German-speaking Community created a legal basis for recognising foreign apprenticeship and master-craft qualifications. The route applies to qualifications comparable to the Community’s companion and master certificates, with healthcare professions excluded.
What Changed?
The decree gives the IAWM responsibility for recognising or declaring equivalence of foreign qualifications in middle-class training to the German-speaking Community’s companion certificate or master certificate.
Old System vs New System
There was no equally clear legal route in this area for recognising comparable foreign apprenticeship qualifications as equivalent to local companion or master certificates.
From September 2026, applicants can use the formal recognition route through the IAWM, except for healthcare qualifications handled under separate rules.
Who Is Affected?
Student Impact
Learners and graduates with foreign vocational qualifications may have a clearer route to recognition in the German-speaking Community.
Parent / Family Impact
Families supporting vocational learners can use a clearer official process when foreign qualifications are involved.
School / Institution Impact
Vocational training bodies must apply or refer applicants to the new recognition process.
Teacher / Staff Impact
No direct teacher-specific operational change was identified.
Key Dates
- 2026-06-01: decree adopted
- 2026-09-01: recognition route becomes applicable.
What To Do
- Applicants should check IAWM requirements and prepare qualification documents before requesting recognition or equivalence.
What To Watch Next
IAWM may publish forms, evidence requirements and processing details for applicants.
Global Context
The change is relevant for mobility and vocational comparison because it clarifies how foreign craft and apprenticeship qualifications can be recognised in a Belgian community system.
Source Record
Source type: Decree
Source name: Ostbelgien Bildung - Explanatory notice on the 1 June 2026 Education and Training Measures Decree