Homologation of foreign university degrees in Spain: what changed in 2026 and what happens to applications in progress?

These are the changes to the homologation of foreign university degrees in 2026.

Obtaining recognition of a foreign university degree in Spain remains a key step for many professionals who want to continue their career, access certain job opportunities or practise a regulated profession.

In recent weeks there have been changes to the homologation of foreign university degrees. One of them is already in force, while the other is part of a regulatory reform that is still awaiting final approval.

1. NARIC takes on new powers to resolve applications

On 29 October 2026, Order CNU/1144/2026 of 23 October was published in the Official State Gazette (BOE). It delegates to the head of the National Office for the Academic and Professional Recognition of Foreign University Degrees (NARIC) the power to resolve homologation and equivalence procedures for foreign degrees.

This measure came into force on 30 October 2026 and aims, among other goals, to improve efficiency and speed up administrative processing.

The provision also expressly states that applications submitted before that date will continue to be processed under the new delegation of powers.

Does this mean pending applications will be resolved faster?

Not necessarily. This is a change in how administrative powers are organised and assigned, not a change to the academic requirements or the legal deadlines for a decision.

2. The full reform of the homologation system is still pending

At the same time, the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities has put forward a draft royal decree to update the system for recognising foreign university qualifications.

The proposal aims to address some of the structural problems of the current procedure, improve how it works and modernise the mechanisms for academic and professional recognition.

However, as of November 2026, the draft has not yet become law. Applications therefore remain subject to the current legal framework, mainly Royal Decree 889/2022.

3. What should you do if your homologation is already in progress?

If you have submitted your application and have not yet received a decision, these changes do not mean you need to start the procedure again or submit a new application.

We recommend that you:

– Regularly check the status of your application on the Ministry's online portal.

– Keep an eye on notifications and any requests for additional documents.

– Check the deadlines for correcting your application and meet them within the required period.

– Keep your proof of submission and all the documents you have provided.

– Not assume that these administrative changes mean your application will be resolved automatically or favourably.

In short: what can we expect?

These recent changes are a step towards reorganising the university degree homologation system in Spain. However, it remains to be seen whether the pending reform will reduce waiting times and offer a more efficient response to the thousands of professionals waiting for their qualifications to be recognised.

At LexMove we follow these developments closely to provide up-to-date legal guidance to those who want to build their professional career in Spain.

Do you have a foreign university degree awaiting homologation, or are you thinking of starting the procedure?

We can help you review your situation, identify the right procedure and decide on the steps you need to take.