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Recognition of professional qualifications

Professionals in the EU can move across borders and practice their occupation or provide services abroad. 

The EU's legal framework for recognising professional qualifications applies broadly to regulated professions, while other specific professions have tailored regulations. The European Commission holds powers to facilitate the implementation of these directives and provides policy guidance with recommendations for qualification recognition of non-EU nationals and those affected by current geopolitical events.

The Commission monitors and evaluates the impact and usefulness of these legal instruments, offering annual country-specific recommendations and contracting studies to enhance evidence and insights on professions and regulations.

In September 2026, the Commission adopted the Fair Labour Mobility package to guarantee clear social rights for everyone, everywhere in the EU, regardless of where they choose to live and work. 

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Regulated Professions Database

The database contains information on regulated professions, statistics on migrating professionals, contact points and competent authorities, as provided by EU Member States, EEA countries, the UK and Switzerland.

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