Recognition of diplomas for medical professions from EU/EFTA states in Switzerland
Switzerland is known for its high-quality healthcare system and its strict requirements for medical professionals. Anyone wishing to work in Switzerland as a doctor, dentist, pharmacist, veterinarian, chiropractor or midwife from an EU or EFTA country must have their foreign diploma recognized. This blog post explains the most important information and procedures as stipulated by the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH).
Why is recognition important?
In Switzerland, members of the so-called "medical professions" may only work with a recognized diploma. This ensures that all professionals meet the high Swiss standards and that patient safety and quality in the healthcare sector are guaranteed.
Which professions does the procedure apply to?
The recognition procedure concerns the following medical professions in accordance with the Medical Professions Act (MedBG):
- Human medicine (doctors)
- Dentistry (dentists)
- Veterinary medicine (veterinarians)
- Pharmacy (pharmacist)
- Chiropractic (chiropractors)
- Midwifery (Midwives)
Who can submit an application?
All persons who have obtained their diploma in an EU or EFTA member state can apply for recognition in Switzerland. This is based on bilateral agreements between Switzerland and the EU/EFTA, which provide for the mutual recognition of professional qualifications.
How does the recognition procedure work?
- Automatic recognition
For diplomas obtained in an EU or EFTA country that meet the minimum requirements of the relevant EU directives, there is a so-called "automatic recognition procedure". This means that
- The diploma must have been issued in an EU/EFTA country.
- The training must meet the minimum requirements of the EU.
If these requirements are met, recognition is usually straightforward and no additional examinations are usually necessary.
- Application to the BAG
The application for recognition is submitted directly to the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH). The necessary documents usually include
- Copy of the diploma (notarized if necessary)
- Proof of nationality
- Proof of professional experience, if applicable
- Extract from the criminal record and proof of good conduct
- Proof of payment of the processing fee
The FOPH checks the documents and issues a confirmation of recognition if the check is successful.
- Special cases and exceptions
In rare cases, if the diploma does not meet the EU minimum requirements or the training was completed in a third country, an individual examination may be carried out. The FOPH may require additional qualifications or examinations.
What happens after recognition?
With the confirmation of recognition from the FOPH, medical professions can be practised in Switzerland. In some cantons or for certain activities, there may be additional cantonal licenses or registrations, in particular for the independent practice of the profession.
Important notes and further information
- Recognition of a diploma is not automatically a license to practice the profession. Depending on the profession and canton, further steps may be necessary.
- The processing time may vary depending on the completeness of the documents and the complexity of the case.
- Further details, forms and up-to-date information can be found on the official website of the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH).
Conclusion
Thanks to the bilateral agreements with the EU/EFTA, Switzerland enables the largely uncomplicated recognition of medical diplomas from these countries. Anyone wishing to work as a medical professional in Switzerland should find out about the necessary steps early on and carefully compile all the documents. This way, nothing stands in the way of successful recognition and the start of a medical career in Switzerland.