Equivalence of qualifications is the concept of recognising qualifications in countries other than the country in which the qualification was awarded. It requires a formal process for verifying that the knowledge, skills, work experience and education obtained in another country is comparable to the standards established for professionals and tradespersons in the new country. Equivalence of qualifications is important for facilitating labour mobility and skilled migration and ensuring immigrants have the opportunity to fully use their education, skills and work experience for their own benefit and for their new country’s collective prosperity.

Other terms used to describe the various approaches and processes involved include foreign credential recognition, recognition of foreign qualifications and recognition of qualifications.