In 2026, the recognition of European diplomas to practice in France relies on three key steps: the authorization to practice issued by the DREETS, registration with the Order of Doctors or the Order of Physiotherapists, and then regional integration with the ARS. The process is simplified for practitioners with degrees from the European Union.
1. How does diploma recognition work in 2026?
France applies the European directive 2005/36/EC, which facilitates the professional mobility of doctors and physiotherapists graduated in the EU. This ensures a harmonized and faster procedure to obtain recognition.
- đ Automatic recognition for compliant EU diplomas
- đ Centralized administrative verification by the DREETS
- đ Assignment of the RPPS number via the Order
The initial steps always begin with the application for the authorization to practice.
2. Step 1: Obtain authorization to practice from the DREETS
The DREETS is the French authority responsible for analyzing and validating the European diplomas of health professionals.
Typically required documents:
- đ Diploma in medicine or physiotherapy
- đ EU compliance certificate (directive 2005/36/EC)
- đ Certificate of good professional conduct
- đȘȘ Identity document
- đ Certified translations if necessary
Official DREETS website: dreets.gouv.fr
đĄ Note: Without authorization to practice issued by the DREETS, it is impossible to initiate the registration procedure with the Orders.3. Step 2: Registration with the competent Order
Once the authorization is obtained, practitioners must register with the corresponding professional Order to practice legally.
- đ©ș Doctors â Order of Doctors: CNOM
- đ Physiotherapists â Order of Physiotherapists: Order MK
The Order verifies:
- đ identity and diploma,
- đ level of medical French,
- đ professional background.
Registration grants access to the RPPS number, essential for prescribing and practicing.
4. Step 3: Regional integration with the ARS
The ARS plays a role in welcoming and territorial organization of the health professional.
- đ Validation of hospital positions
- đ Monitoring of regional care provision
- đ Support for installation
ARS procedures depend on the region where the practitioner works.
5. Which practitioners are concerned by this procedure?
The recognition of diplomas applies to:
- đ©ș General practitioners
- đ§ Medical specialists
- đŠ· Dentists (similar procedure via the Order of Dental Surgeons)
- đ Physiotherapists
Dentists (if concerned): Order of Dental Surgeons
6. 2026 Timeframes: How long to expect?
Timeframes vary depending on files, but 2026 trends show:
- â DREETS: 2 to 4 months
- â Orders: 4 to 8 weeks
A complete file significantly accelerates the procedure.
7. Practical advice to succeed in your recognition in France
- â Prepare documents as soon as possible
- â Have the necessary documents translated by a sworn translator
- â Verify diploma compliance with the EU directive
- â Improve your medical French
Medical French courses: access partner schools
To prepare your installation: view Euromotion practical guides
â FAQ â Diploma Recognition 2026
Are European diplomas automatically recognized?
Yes, if they comply with directive 2005/36/EC. The DREETS verifies this compliance.
Is it necessary to register with the Order after the DREETS?
Yes. Registration with the Order is mandatory to practice legally and obtain the RPPS number.
Do European physiotherapists need to take an exam?
No, if their diploma complies with European regulations.
Can one start working before being registered?
No. DREETS authorization + Order registration are mandatory.
đ Ready to have your diploma recognized in France?
Euromotion Medical offers free support to European doctors and physiotherapists in all procedures: DREETS, Orders, installation, and job search.
- đ Job offers: view positions
- đ Procedures & Guides: consult guides
- đŒ Recruitment via: Mediirect
- đ© Direct contact: nicetomeetyou@euromotion.care
- đČ Follow us: Instagram âą Facebook âą X âą LinkedIn
