Validation, Recognition and Revalidation of Foreign Degrees in Chile
With the recent publication of the new Regulation governing the recognition and revalidation of foreign qualifications , it is essential to clarify three concepts that are often confused:
Validation ( MINEDUC )
Recognition
Revalidation
They are not equivalent and do not produce the same legal effects .
Validation of studies (MINEDUC)
It is an administrative procedure before the Ministry of Education that:
Verify the authenticity of studies conducted abroad.
Record academic background.
Allows you to accredit educational level (basic/middle school).
It may allow you to continue your studies in Chile.
What is it for?
Providing proof of studies to employers.
Meet immigration requirements.
Continue studies at a Chilean institution.
What does it NOT do?
It does not convert a foreign degree into an equivalent Chilean one.
It does not enable the signing of projects or the performance of regulated acts.
It does not allow the practice of professions that require formal recognition.
Recognition of professional title
It is the act by which a competent Chilean institution (MINEDUC, MINREL or university) accepts that the foreign degree has equivalent academic value for professional purposes in Chile.
It generally applies when there is a treaty or when the institution determines equivalence without the need for complex exams.
What does it allow?
✔ Grants official validity in Chile.
✔ Allows you to practice the profession when regulations require a recognized degree.
✔ A formal certificate of recognition is issued.
Important: Recognition does not replace additional sector requirements when the activity requires it (e.g., registrations, certifications or authorizations before specific authorities).
Revalidation of professional title
Revalidation is a more demanding procedure, aimed at establishing full equivalence between the foreign degree and a Chilean degree, and may involve:
Comparison of curriculum frameworks.
Formal academic evaluation.
Taking exams or additional requirements, if necessary.
What does it allow?
It grants full equivalence with the Chilean title.
It results in an equivalent diploma.
It allows you to practice on equal terms with a professional with a degree in Chile.
Conclusion
The new Regulation streamlines the procedure and expands the institutional framework for processing, but maintains an essential distinction:
Validation = administrative/documentary procedure.
Recognition = official validity of the degree (according to applicable procedure).
Revalidation = full equivalence with possible additional evaluation.
Confusing these concepts can lead to:
Delays in hiring.
Inability to perform critical functions (e.g., technical signature/certification).
Regulatory risks for the company.
