Diploma Recognition (Nostrification) in Ukraine: When a Foreign Worker Needs It

What nostrification actually is, versus a translated diploma

Nostrification is the state's official recognition of a foreign education document, not just its translation into Ukrainian. A translated and notarized diploma confirms only what the original document says; nostrification confirms that the education itself meets Ukrainian educational standards and grants the right to use that qualification inside Ukraine.

When nostrification is actually required

Not every position requires it — for most line and blue-collar roles, a work permit alone is enough, with no diploma confirmation needed. Nostrification becomes mandatory where the profession is regulated and tied to a specific qualification — medicine, teaching, engineering roles with formal certification. Before starting the process, it's worth checking whether the specific position actually requires it.

Where and how to file for nostrification

Since 2023, the main channel for filing a nostrification application has been the Ministry of Education and Science's online portal, apostille.mon.gov.ua, which now handles most applications to recognize a foreign education document. Filing requires a certified copy and an official translation of the legalized education document, a copy of the diploma supplement, and a copy of the applicant's passport.

Apostille and translation — mandatory steps before filing

Before filing for nostrification, the original diploma has to be legalized in its country of issue — either an apostille or consular legalization, depending on whether that country is party to the Hague Convention. After that, the document needs an official Ukrainian translation with a notarized certification — without both steps, the application won't even be accepted for review.

How long the process takes

Reviewing a nostrification application usually takes one to three months, depending on the workload of the relevant expert commissions and how complete the submitted package is. That means nostrification needs to start well ahead of the planned start date for the position that requires it, not once a role is already waiting for a specific person.

What to do if nostrification isn't needed

If the position isn't regulated and doesn't require confirming a qualification, the standard legalization package is enough — a work permit and, if needed, a residence permit, with no separate diploma recognition. Migration and HR support from ASHA Ukraine helps figure out whether nostrification applies to a specific position, and the guide to getting a residence permit covers the next steps in legalizing a foreign worker.