Understanding the Declaration of Value
The Declaration of Value (DV) is an official document issued by the Italian Consulate that provides a detailed description of a foreign educational qualification. Its primary purpose is to assist Italian authorities in evaluating and recognizing foreign qualifications within the Italian education and professional systems. It’s important to note that the DV does not equate to an automatic recognition, equivalence, or approval of the qualification in Italy.
Purpose of the Declaration of Value
The DV serves several key functions:
- Academic Pursuits: Facilitates the continuation of studies in Italy by providing Italian educational institutions with essential information about the foreign qualification.
- Professional Recognition: Assists in the recognition of professional qualifications for employment purposes within Italy.
- Legal Validation: Provides necessary documentation for legal purposes, such as participating in public competitions or obtaining professional licenses.
Jurisdiction of the Italian Consulate in London
The Italian Consulate in London is responsible for issuing DVs for British qualifications obtained within its consular jurisdiction, which includes specific regions in England and Wales. Qualifications obtained in other parts of the UK fall under the jurisdiction of the respective Italian consulates:
- Consulate General in Manchester: Handles qualifications from regions including Cheshire, Cumbria, Derbyshire, Durham, East Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Merseyside, North Yorkshire, Northumberland, Nottinghamshire, Rutland, Shropshire, South Yorkshire, Staffordshire, Tyne and Wear, West Midlands, West Yorkshire, and the Isle of Man.
- Consulate General in Edinburgh: Responsible for qualifications obtained in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Application Process for the Declaration of Value
To apply for a DV through the Italian Consulate in London, follow these steps:
- Prepare Necessary Documents:
- Application Form: Complete and sign the DV application form.
- Identification: Provide a clear photocopy of a valid ID (passport or ID card).
- Educational Certificates:
- Verified and Certified Copies: Obtain verified and certified copies of your original educational certificates through a UK-based Notary Public.
- Legalisation: Have these documents legalized with an Apostille from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
- Translations: Provide translations of your certificates into Italian. We are listed on all consulates’ websites.
- Proof of Purpose:
- Academic: If the DV is for further studies, include proof of enrolment or application to an Italian educational institution.
- Professional: If for professional reasons, provide relevant documentation supporting the need for recognition in Italy.
- Submission:
- By Post: Send all documents to the Qualifications Office at the Italian Consulate in London:
Ufficio Titoli di Studio Consolato Generale d’Italia “Harp House”, 83/86 Farringdon Street, EC4A 4BL London - Prepaid Return Envelope: Include a self-addressed, prepaid A4 envelope (preferably Special Delivery) for the return of your documents.
- By Post: Send all documents to the Qualifications Office at the Italian Consulate in London:
- Fees:
- Consular Fees: The cost corresponds to articles 66N (DV) and 72A (certified translation) in the consular fees chart. Payment should only be made after the Qualifications Office reviews your application and communicates the exact amount and payment instructions via email.
- Exemptions: The DV is issued free of charge if intended for further studies in Italy. This applies to all foreign nationals and Italian citizens residing abroad who can provide proof of residence and enrolment in an Italian university.
Processing Time
The processing time for a DV is approximately 30 days from the receipt of a complete application. Applicants are advised to plan accordingly and ensure all documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays.
Contact Information
For further inquiries or assistance, you can contact the Qualifications Office via email at scuole.londra@esteri.it.
Additional Resources
- CIMEA: For Statements of Comparability and Verification of qualifications, visit the Information Centre on Academic Mobility and Equivalence.
- UK ENIC: For recognition of Italian qualifications in the UK, contact UK ENIC.
By following these guidelines, applicants can navigate the process of obtaining a Declaration of Value for their British qualifications, facilitating their academic or professional endeavours in Italy.
