Overview of Qualification Recognition in Cyprus
For foreign nationals planning to work or continue their studies in Cyprus, the formal recognition of academic degrees obtained abroad is often a mandatory step. This process ensures that a foreign qualification is comparable to the standards of the Cypriot higher education system. The primary authority responsible for this assessment is the Cyprus Council of Recognition of Higher Education Qualifications (KYSATS).
Recognition is typically required for employment in the public sector, participation in government-funded programs, or admission to specific postgraduate levels at Cypriot universities. It is important to distinguish between academic recognition (validating the level of study) and professional recognition (the right to practice a specific regulated profession).
Types of Academic Recognition
KYSATS provides two primary forms of recognition for degrees from outside the Republic of Cyprus. The choice depends on the specific requirements of the employer or the educational institution.
Equivalence (Isotimia)
This confirms that a foreign qualification is equal in level to a specific degree type in Cyprus (e.g., a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD). It does not assess whether the subject matter is identical, only that the academic standing is the same.
Equivalence and Correspondence (Isotimia kai Antistoichia)
This is a more rigorous assessment. It confirms that the foreign degree is not only equal in level but also covers substantially the same subject matter as a degree offered by a public university in Cyprus. This is often required for regulated professions like engineering or teaching.
If a degree is from a recognized institution but does not meet all criteria, KYSATS may issue a Partial Recognition, indicating the additional courses or exams needed to achieve full equivalence.
Application Procedure and Requirements
The application process is centralized through the KYSATS official website. Applicants must submit digital copies of their documents, followed by physical verification if requested.
Standard documentation required for the 2025/2026 cycle includes:
- The original degree certificate and a formal transcript of records.
- A certified translation of these documents into Greek or English (if the original is in another language).
- Proof of the duration of study and the ECTS credits earned.
- Verification that the awarding institution is recognized by the relevant authorities in its home country.
- Proof of identity (Passport or ID card).
Fees for 2025/2026: The cost for an application for Equivalence is approximately 50 EUR ($55 USD, Jan 2026). The fee for Equivalence and Correspondence is approximately 100 EUR ($110 USD, Jan 2026). Fees are non-refundable regardless of the outcome.
Professional Recognition and Regulated Professions
Academic recognition by KYSATS does not automatically grant the right to practice a regulated profession. Foreign nationals in fields such as medicine, law, engineering, or accounting must also apply to the respective professional body or the Cyprus Council for the Recognition of Professional Qualifications (CYATS).
For example, engineers must register with the Scientific and Technical Chamber of Cyprus (ETEK), while medical doctors must register with the Cyprus Medical Council. These bodies may require additional evidence of language proficiency in Greek and specific professional experience within the European Union.
Note: Under EU Directive 2005/36/EC, qualifications obtained within the European Economic Area (EEA) often benefit from a simplified "automatic recognition" process for specific professions, though administrative registration is still required.
Processing times for academic recognition typically range from 2 to 6 months, depending on the complexity of the case and the responsiveness of the awarding foreign institution. It is recommended to begin the process at least six months before the intended start date of employment or study.