Challenges and pathways for the validation of foreign diplomas in Brazil
Since 2021, the Cátedra Sérgio Vieira de Mello at UFG has been assisting migrants seeking to validate their foreign diplomas in Brazil. Over the past year, the department has witnessed a significant increase in demand for its services, rising from fifty people served in 2022 to around a hundred people in 2023.
This increase reflects not only a closer connection with migrant communities, but also the determination of these individuals to build their lives in the country.
According to Carolina Hissa, a professor, lawyer for migrants, and vice-coordinator of research at CSVM-UFG, the opportunity to practice their professions directly impacts the self-esteem of migrants, especially those who were forced to leave their countries due to conflicts or persecutions.
"More than starting from scratch, it's a restart from a zero, knowing that you've already reached another sphere. It's pains on top of pains, which greatly compromises the quality of life. It's not just a financial loss, but also emotional," points out Hissa.
But starting this process is not simple. Although the Carolina Bori platform, developed by the Ministry of Education, was designed to simplify the validation of foreign diplomas, language barriers, the scarcity of vacancies, and excessive bureaucracy are still challenges faced by applicants.
The situation is even more complicated for those who are not from countries signatories to the Hague Convention, which aims to facilitate commercial and legal transactions between nations. Without this agreement, the process becomes even more arduous and expensive for migrants.
Rafaela Pereira, a volunteer at CSVM, highlights the variety of fees charged by universities to validate diplomas, putting additional financial pressure on applicants. Although states like Paraná, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo have laws exempting refugees from these fees, the lack of uniformity and national coverage is a gap that needs to be filled.
The integration of these qualified professionals into Brazilian society is not only a matter of inclusion but also a valuable opportunity for the country. However, achieving this goal requires more effective public policies and a broader recognition of the skills and talents of migrants.
It is in this context that the Cátedra Sérgio Vieira de Mello plays a crucial role. Through virtual and in-person assistance, the department not only provides information but also welcomes and supports migrants in their integration journey in Brazil.
Those in need of assistance in this process can contact the CSVM via WhatsApp at the number 35212624.