European Commission proposes automatic recognition of professional qualifications

The European Commission has approved the ‘Fair Labour Mobility Package’, which aims to streamline the recognition of professional qualifications across the EU. Physiotherapists have been identified as a top priority profession under this new regulation. The initiative seeks to eliminate bureaucratic delays by establishing a common framework for qualifications.

To facilitate cross-border mobility, the EU is introducing the European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI Wallet). This optional tool will allow citizens to store essential documents, including diplomas, identity cards, and health insurance, in a certified digital format. Member states are expected to complete their implementation of the digital wallet by December 2026. Currently, France, Denmark, and Italy are the only nations ready for the rollout.

While the package promises benefits such as the ESSPASS digital social security passport, digital rights organizations, including European Digital Rights (EDRi) and Privacy International, have raised concerns. These groups warn of potential risks regarding data breaches and the privacy of personal information, particularly if biometric data is included in the digital wallet.