Have you obtained a degree abroad and wish to have it recognised in Belgium? A sworn translation of your diploma and transcript is a mandatory step, but it is frequently confused with the degree recognition process itself. These are two distinct procedures, and confusing them can cost you several weeks.
Diploma Translation vs. Diploma Recognition
This is the most common source of confusion, and it costs many applicants valuable time. Here is the fundamental distinction:
- Sworn translation is the linguistic conversion of your diploma and transcript into French (or Dutch), certified by a Belgian sworn translator. It is an official document that proves you obtained a specific qualification from a specific institution.
- Degree recognition is the procedure by which a Belgian authority (NARIC-FWB, NARIC-Vlaanderen) assesses whether your foreign degree is equivalent to a Belgian qualification. It is an administrative decision that generally takes several weeks to several months.
The sworn translation is a component of the recognition file : it precedes and is required for recognition. Without a sworn translation, the NARIC will not process your file.
NARIC-FWB in Brussels: The Gateway to Recognition in the French Community
NARIC-FWB (the Diploma Recognition Service of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation) is the competent body for recognising foreign diplomas in the French Community. Its office is located in Brussels (Rue A. Lavallée 1, 1080 Molenbeek). For diplomas intended for professional use in the Brussels or Walloon Region, it issues the recognition certificate.
NARIC-FWB's standard file requires: the original diploma (with apostille if required), the full transcript, and the sworn translation of both documents into French. If your diploma is in a language other than French, the sworn translation is mandatory.
The Most Common Foreign Diplomas in Brussels
Brussels is home to a large qualified foreign population. The diplomas we most frequently translate for Brussels-related procedures:
- Congolese diplomas (DRC): Written in French, they do not require linguistic translation, but often need to be accompanied by consular legalisation. If transcripts contain abbreviations or notes in Lingala or another local language, an explanatory note may be required.
- Moroccan diplomas: Written in Arabic (and sometimes in French for French-medium programmes). Diplomas from French-language Moroccan universities may be presented as-is in French, but the Arabic transcript must be translated.
- Tunisian diplomas: Same logic as Moroccan diplomas - the French part is often usable directly, while the Arabic part must be translated.
- Romanian diplomas: Entirely in Romanian. Sworn translation Romanian to French required. Romanian apostille is available.
- Russian diplomas: Entirely in Cyrillic. Sworn translation Russian to French. Legalisation (apostille) is required for Russian documents.
TranslateBE
Foreign diploma to translate for NARIC-FWB or Actiris?
Our Belgian sworn translators translate your diplomas and transcripts from over 50 languages. Complete file ready to submit to NARIC.
Actiris and the SPF for Employment in Brussels
Beyond NARIC-FWB, two other Brussels organisations may require a translation of your foreign diploma:
Actiris (the Brussels employment service, Place Anneessens) may direct you towards diploma recognition or ask for a translation for enrolment in certain training or employment programmes. Although Actiris does not formally require a sworn translation for basic registration, many Brussels employers to whom you will be referred will require one.
The SPF Employment (for certain positions in the federal civil service) and SELOR (the Federal Administration Selection Bureau) may also require a sworn translation of the foreign diploma to verify equivalence with the qualification requirements for the position.
Turnaround Times and Rates
| Document | Standard | Express |
|---|---|---|
| Diploma 1 page (Arabic, Romanian, Russian…) | 2-3 business days | 24h |
| Transcript 2-4 pages | 3-4 business days | 48h |
| Diploma + transcript (complete pack) | 4-5 business days | 48-72h |
TranslateBE · Certified Agency
Diploma + Transcript Translation Pack for NARIC-FWB
We translate and certify your complete academic file: diploma, transcript, diploma supplement. 100% online service.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Does NARIC-FWB accept certified photocopies or is the apostilled original required?
NARIC-FWB generally requires the original diploma or a certified copy issued by the awarding institution, accompanied by the apostille if the country requires it. For the translation, a clear scan of the original is sufficient. Check the precise requirements on the NARIC-FWB website before submitting your file, as they may change.
My Moroccan diploma is bilingual Arabic/French - do I still need to translate the Arabic part?
If your Moroccan diploma is officially bilingual Arabic/French, the French part may be used directly. However, if the transcript is in Arabic only, a sworn translation of that part remains mandatory for a complete NARIC file.
My Brussels employer is asking for a translation of my Russian diploma - must it be a sworn translation?
For a private employer, a certified (but not necessarily sworn) translation may suffice. However, if the job is in the public or regulated sector, a sworn translation by a certified translator will be required in almost all cases. When in doubt, a sworn translation is always the safest option.
Can I have a diploma translated without having the apostilled original in my possession?
Yes. For a sworn translation, a scan of your original diploma is sufficient (the apostille is not required for the translation itself). The sworn translation certifies the accuracy of the translation relative to the document presented. The apostille on the original is a separate requirement relating to the authentication of the original document itself for the receiving administration.
NARIC submission or job interview coming up in Brussels?
Our 24-48h express service handles your complete file (diploma + transcript). Send your scans now.