This project supports the development of a user-oriented methodology for the recognition of foreign VET qualifications, setting out common criteria, processes and practical guidance. It examines how VET qualifications and skills are recognised across Europe for access to employment and further learning, building on Cedefop’s previous work on comparing qualifications.
As the European Union seeks to strengthen skills portability and mobility as a key feature of the Union of Skills, including the Skills Portability Initiative, the project seeks to support more transparent and consistent recognition practices across countries, sectors and occupations. The project is relevant to recognition authorities and credential evaluators, employers and VET providers involved in assessing and recognising qualifications and skills acquired abroad.
Developing a methodology for recognition
The project is organised in three phases:
- 2026-2027: Reviewing existing approaches
Analyse international, European and national recognition frameworks, methodologies and tools to identify approaches and criteria relevant to the recognition of VET qualifications. - 2027-2028: Analysing national practices
Examine how foreign VET qualifications are recognised across Europe for employment and further learning purposes, identifying common practices, challenges and innovative solutions. - 2028-2029: Developing a user-oriented methodology
Build on the evidence gathered to develop and validate a practical methodology that supports recognition services, competent authorities, education and training providers, and employers in the understanding, comparison and recognition of foreign VET qualifications.
Throughout the project, cooperation with recognition networks and stakeholders will support the exchange of knowledge and experience and contribute to discussions on the recognition and portability of qualifications and skills across Europe.
Building on previous work
The current project builds on Cedefop’s work on qualifications and credentials, learning outcomes, transparency, the EQF and the NQFs, as well as validation of non-formal and informal learning.
- 2015-2017: Cedefop carried out a pilot study comparing 10 VET qualifications across 10 European countries, developing and testing methodologies for analysing similarities and differences in qualification content and profiles.
- 2017-2019: In cooperation with ETF and UNESCO, the methodology was further tested internationally, comparing selected qualifications across 26 countries worldwide.
- 2019-2021: Cedefop explored methodologies for the in-depth analysis and comparison of qualifications based on learning outcomes, strengthening the evidence base for mutual learning and policy development.
- 2023-2025: Through a survey of ReferNet partners and consultations with stakeholders, Cedefop mapped national policies, practices, tools and instruments used for the comparison and recognition of VET qualifications across Europe.