When do I need to have my academic title recognized to work as a researcher in Spain?
The need for title recognition depends on your employer’s requirements and the purpose of your work or studies.
Public employers—such as national research-performing organizations—are legally required to verify that their employees hold the necessary educational qualifications. For this reason, they typically require official recognition of your academic title.
Universities and regional research-performing organizations may also require official recognition, depending on their legal frameworks and institutional agreements.
Most institutions will accept proof that you have applied for the equivalence of your title when signing the contract. However, it is advisable to contact the institution in advance to understand and meet their specific hiring policies.
Private companies rarely require official recognition unless the position involves a regulated profession.
What type of recognition do I need?
If your employer requires recognition of your academic title within the Spanish system, you will generally need equivalence—not homologation—because research is not a regulated profession.
Homologation is only required for regulated professions (e.g., medical doctor, architect). Keep in mind: the type of recognition required depends not on what you studied, but on what you intend to work as
Who issues the equivalence?
The authority responsible for issuing the equivalence depends on the degree to be recognized:
- If you are going to pursue a PhD, you must have your Master’s degree recognized. In this case, the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities is responsible for issuing the equivalence.
- If you are going to work as a postdoctoral researcher (R2) or in more advanced stages (R3–R4), you will need to recognize your PhD degree. In this case, the University will issue the equivalence.
How long does it take to obtain the equivalence of my title?
The processing time depends on the country and institution that issued your degree:
- If your degree was issued by a university in an EU or EES Member State or Switzertland, your application will typically be accepted automatically, without a detailed assessment of your academic profile.
- If your degree was issued by a university in a non-EU or EES country, your application will follow the standard review procedure.
Maximum amount of time for issuing is 2 months.
Procedure of recognition.
The application must be submitted online in the electronic platform of the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities.
To know more about the procedure please visit:
Diploma recognitions MICIU (in Spanish)
To obtain personalised assistance please contact ENIC-NARIC network: