Do you want to continue your studies or start working in your specialty in Slovakia? Recognition of your diploma or certificate is the first step. In this article, Liberty School explains in detail what nostrification is, when it is needed, and how to go through the procedure as easily and quickly as possible.
What is nostrification and why is it needed?
Nostrification is official recognition of a foreign educational document on the territory of the Slovak Republic. Without this document, it is impossible to enter a university, work in a profession (for example, as a doctor, engineer, teacher) or obtain certain licenses.
When is nostrification required?
For admission to a university — if your certificate or diploma was issued outside of Slovakia.
For obtaining a work license — especially in regulated professions.
For official recognition of qualifications — when applying for a job or emigration in a specialty.
Who can apply for nostrification in Slovakia?
The procedure is available to both EU citizens and persons from third countries. The main thing is the presence of a legal educational document and its certified translation.
School certificates
To recognize secondary education (for example, for admission after 11th grade), you need to contact regional school administrations. Attach a certificate, translation, application, and copy of passport.
Bachelors, Masters and Doctors of Science
For higher education, you need to submit to the Ministry of Education of Slovakia. Here they will review your diploma, application, courses, hours, and issue confirmation.
Required documents: what to prepare in advance
Before submission, it is important to collect all necessary documents. Some of them require time to prepare.
Apostille or legalization of diploma
Your diploma must be apostilled (or legalized) to confirm its authenticity in international format.
Official translation into Slovak language
Certified translation is required for all documents. It must be done by a translator registered in the registry of the Ministry of Justice.
Diploma supplement and curriculum
This is important for assessing the content of education. Specify hours, subjects, grades — all of this will be analyzed.
Copy of passport and application
Do not forget to sign the official statement on recognition of education and attach a copy of identification.
Where to submit documents: choice of institution
Ministry of Education (higher education)
For bachelors, masters and doctors of sciences. Submission — by mail or in person. Answer — within 60 days.
Regional school boards (secondary education)
Submission takes place at the location of future education. There, the decision on recognition and possible testing is made.
Step-by-step process of nostrification: from submission to decision
Document preparation
Application submission
Payment of fee (usually from 30 to 100 €)
Assessment by competent authority
Request for additional documents (if necessary)
Receiving the decision
Appeal — if nostrification is rejected
Issuance of confirmation or certificate
Timeline and cost of nostrification
How long does the procedure last?
Average timeframe — 30–60 days after submitting the application and paying the fee.
Fee amounts and additional expenses
Fee: 30–100 € depending on the level of education.
Additionally: translations, copies, apostilles — from 50 € and higher.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Incomplete package of documents
Check the checklist twice! The absence of even one document can lead to rejection.
Incorrect translation format
Use only sworn translators recognized in Slovakia.
Late submission
Submit documents in advance — especially before university admission campaigns.
Tip: Specify your current e-mail in the application — that's where the decision will be sent!
When nostrification is not required
If you graduated from school or university in the Czech Republic or the EU, your education may be automatically recognized. However, always check with the specific university or institution.
How Liberty School helps you pass nostrification
Document verification before submission
We analyze your diplomas, suggest what is missing and what needs to be completed.
Translations, apostilles, forms — everything included
Our team works with verified translators and notaries. You will receive a complete package without stress.
Contact with authorities and support
We contact the competent institutions on your behalf, track the status of your application and inform you of every step.
What to do after nostrification?
Once your diploma is recognized, you can:
Enroll in a Slovak university
Apply for a license or work permit
Update your resident status in your insurance policy
Work officially in your specialty
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about nostrification
What is nostrification and how does it differ from an apostille?
An apostille confirms the authenticity of a document, and notarization — its recognition in another country.
Can I submit documents remotely?
Yes, by mail or by a trusted representative. In some cases, online registration is also possible.
Do I need a diploma in Slovak?
No, but a certified translation into Slovak is mandatory.
Where to find a sworn translator in Slovakia?
In the database Ministry of Justice of Slovakia or through Liberty School.
What to do if the diploma was refused recognition?
You can file an appeal within 15 days. We will help prepare it correctly.
Do I need to pass exams during notarization?
Sometimes — when recognizing school diplomas. For universities — only at the individual decision of the commission.
Is a CIS diploma suitable for admission?
Yes, with an apostille and correct translation — no problem.
How to find out which authority is responsible for my diploma?
Liberty School will tell you based on the level of education and the country where you studied.
How long is the notarization result valid?
He acts for life, like an ordinary Slovak diploma.
Can one get help from Liberty School without language knowledge?
Of course. We speak Russian, English and Ukrainian. We will explain all the steps and arrange everything for you.
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