Salaire Santé Luxembourg

Nurses: getting a non-EU diploma recognised

Last updated : August 2, 2026

You obtained your nursing diploma outside the European Union (Tunisia, Morocco, the Philippines, post-Brexit United Kingdom, etc.)? A prior recognition of your diploma is always mandatory before you can apply for the authorisation to practise in Luxembourg. There are two situations.

Case 1: your diploma has already been recognised in an EU Member State

If your qualification has already been officially recognised by a Member State (for example an authorisation to practise obtained in France or Belgium) and you can prove 3 years of professional experience in that Member State, your file is processed under the regime of Directive 2005/36/EC. Attach the recognition decision and your work certificates.

Case 2: your diploma has never been recognised in the EU

Your file undergoes a full assessment of the content and duration of your training against Luxembourg's requirements. If substantial differences are found, compensatory measures may be imposed:

  • an aptitude test (sessions held several times a year; in 2026: 26 February, 18 June, 22 October), or
  • an adaptation period under supervision;
  • an additional fee of 300 € for compensatory measures.

Where to send the application?

  • Diploma at secondary-education level: Ministry of Education, Children and Youth (MENEJ), Diploma Recognition Service — online form, e-mail (reconnaissance@men.lu) or post.
  • Diploma at higher-education level: Ministry of Research and Higher Education (MESR), Professional Qualifications Service, 18-20 montée de la Pétrusse, L-2327 Luxembourg — via MyGuichet.lu or by post (contact: rqp@mesr.etat.lu).

Documents specific to non-EU diplomas

  • copy of your valid residence permit (third-country nationals);
  • certification of conformity of the documents by an authorised authority (legalisation or apostille depending on the country);
  • translations by a sworn translator for any document not in French, German or English;
  • detailed CV, diplomas, transcripts, work certificates, identity document, proof of payment of the 75 € fee.

After recognition

Once you have the recognition certificate (answer usually within 2 to 6 weeks, maximum 3 months), you can apply for the authorisation to practise with the Ministry of Health. Also keep the language requirements in mind (B2 level in French or German).

For a personalised step-by-step path, use our interactive assistant.

Official sources

Information provided for guidance only (verified in August 2026). Only the competent administrations are authoritative.

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