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How Foreign Doctors Can Legalize Their Documents to Work in Ukraine

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To work legally in Ukraine, foreign medical professionals must complete two key procedures: the recognition of their educational credentials and the confirmation of their professional qualifications. Without these steps, even highly experienced doctors with international certifications cannot legally practice medicine in the country.


The process is bureaucratic and involves several government bodies, including the Ministry of Education and Science (MES), the Ministry of Health (MOH), and other relevant institutions. Applicants often face complications related to translation requirements, document legalization, or incomplete paperwork, which can cause delays or lead to rejection. 


In this article, we explain which documents are required, how each stage of the process works, what challenges may arise, and how legal support from a medical law specialist can help streamline the procedure.


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Which Documents Are Required for Recognition in Ukraine

First, a foreign doctor must prepare their medical diploma (higher or secondary specialized education) and a specialist physician certificate that confirms their professional training. The application must also include records of completed internships, residencies, or professional development courses that demonstrate the applicant’s area of specialization. 


Equally important is
proof of practical experience, such as a certificate from the current or previous employer. 


All documents must be legalized — either through an apostille (or consular legalization) and accompanied by
notarized Ukrainian translations. Without this, the MES and the MOH will not process the application.


Step-by-Step Procedure for Diploma Recognition (Nostrification)

To complete the diploma recognition process (nostrification), a foreign doctor must:

  1. Prepare the required document package, which includes:
    - A copy of the diploma with an apostille (or consular legalization)
    - Diploma supplement (if applicable)
    - A written application in Ukrainian
    - Consent to the processing of personal data
    - A copy of the passport or another identification document
    - Notarized Ukrainian translations of all listed documents
    - Proof of payment of the administrative fee (or a document confirming exemption from the fee)

  2. Submit the document package to the MES by completing the relevant forms either through the online portal or in person at the admissions office. During registration, officials will check whether all documents are properly prepared.

  3. Undergo expert evaluation: an expert commission reviews whether the foreign diploma meets Ukrainian standards. If approved, the diploma may be fully recognized (equivalent to a Ukrainian one) or partially recognized (requiring the doctor to pass additional exams or complete adaptation courses).

    If discrepancies are found, a refusal may be issued. In that case, the applicant must address the comments and resubmit the documents.


  4. Receive the recognition certificate: after a positive decision, the doctor receives an official certificate from the MES confirming that their diploma has been recognized in Ukraine. This document serves as the basis for further application to the Ministry of Health.

Steps at the MOH to Obtain a Medical Practice License

After diploma recognition, a foreign doctor must apply to the Ministry of Health with a document package that includes:

  • the MES certificate confirming diploma recognition (received after nostrification);

  • a copy of the diploma and specialist certificate (with legalization and certified translations);

  • proof of internship, residency, and continuing medical education;

  • documentation of professional experience in the field;

  • a copy of the applicant’s identification document.

All submitted materials must be notarized and translated into Ukrainian. After registering the application, the Ministry of Health may request additional information or set additional conditions required to confirm professional qualifications. These may include:

  • completing an internship at a Ukrainian medical institution;

  • participating in specialized training or courses;

  • passing exams on medical terminology and Ukrainian healthcare legislation.

Only after meeting all the requirements will the Ministry of Health add the doctor to the Unified Register of Medical Professionals. This grants the official right to practice medicine. With this document, a doctor can:

  1. Obtain a license for private practice as a sole proprietor.

  2. Sign an employment agreement with a public or private clinic.

  3. Register in the eHealth system and enter into agreements with the National Health Service of Ukraine (NHSU).

Most Common Difficulties in Legalizing Documents

The recognition process is complex, and foreign doctors often face the following challenges:

  • Translations without notarization or with errors: documents are returned for revision, which prolongs the review period.

  • Missing apostille or incorrect legalization: without this, the diploma will not be accepted for expert evaluation.

  • Discrepancies in personal data (inaccurate name spelling, dates, or institution names) are one of the main reasons for rejection.

  • An incomplete document package (missing diploma supplements, work experience confirmation, certificates) leads to delays.

  • Extended review periods: due to institutional workload, the process may take several months to a year, especially if corrections are required.

To avoid these issues, it is essential to thoroughly verify the entire document package in advance and comply with all formal requirements.


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Why You Need LegalService and Why It’s Hard Without Us

The process of recognizing foreign documents in Ukraine is full of pitfalls. One incorrect translation, a missing apostille, or a minor error in a form, and you’ll have to start from scratch. We know these mistakes by heart, which is why we guide each client from document review to the final decision by the Ministry of Health.


Regulations from the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health change often. If you miss an update, you lose time and end up resubmitting your application. We work with these institutions daily, have access to up-to-date requirements, and respond quickly to any changes.


Even a few missteps can delay the process for months. We handle everything: translations, apostilles, correct formatting, communication with authorities, deadline tracking, and responding to official requests.


Trust this process to the professionals at LegalService. With us, you save time, avoid stress, and skip the lines, resubmissions, and bureaucracy.



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