How to Obtain a Declaration of Value (Dichiarazione di Valore) for Italy
If you completed your education in Canada and need to use your diploma or degree in Italy, you may be asked to obtain a Declaration of Value (Dichiarazione di Valore or DV).
The process can involve several steps, including obtaining your educational documents, arranging an apostille, determining whether a certified Italian translation is required, completing the appropriate consular forms, and submitting the documents to the correct Italian consular office.
At DG Notary, I can assist clients throughout the document preparation and submission process for a Declaration of Value through the appropriate Italian Consulate or Embassy in Ontario.
What is a Declaration of Value?
A Dichiarazione di Valore (DV), commonly translated as a Declaration of Value or Statement of Value, is an official document issued by an Italian diplomatic or consular authority.
The DV provides information about a foreign educational qualification, including information about the credential, the educational institution that issued it, the duration of the program, and its place within the educational system of the country where the studies were completed. The information is then provided for use within the Italian educational system.
A Declaration of Value may be required for individuals who need to have Canadian educational credentials recognized in Italy. For example, it may be relevant when:
Continuing studies in Italy
Applying to an Italian educational institution
Seeking recognition or equivalency of a Canadian qualification
Using an educational credential for employment purposes in Italy
Meeting documentation requirements for another Italian authority
The exact requirements can depend on the purpose for which the credential will be used.
Do I Need a Declaration of Value?
Not every person who has a Canadian diploma or degree will necessarily need a DV.
The Italian institution or authority requesting your documents should confirm whether a Declaration of Value is required and whether additional documentation, such as a translation, is necessary.
It is also important to understand that a Declaration of Value does not itself grant professional recognition or determine whether someone is qualified to practise a regulated profession in Italy. The Italian authority receiving the documents may still conduct its own assessment or require additional verification.
How DG Notary Can Assist
The Declaration of Value process can be confusing because it may involve several different organizations. DG Notary can help coordinate the Canadian side of the process and prepare your documents for submission to the appropriate Italian authority.
1. Review Your Documentation
I can review the documents you have and help identify what may be required for your particular Declaration of Value application.
This can help you avoid submitting an incomplete package or discovering later that an additional document or step is required.
2. Assist With Apostille Requirements
Since the Hague Apostille Convention came into effect in Canada on January 11, 2024, Canadian documents used in Italy are subject to the Canadian apostille process. The Italian authorities explain that, in many cases, an apostille issued by the appropriate Canadian authority replaces the previous authentication-and-consular-legalization process.
DG Notary can assist with the Canadian document preparation and apostille process where applicable.
3. Coordinate Certified Translation
Some Declaration of Value applications require the diploma and/or transcript to be translated into Italian.
The Italian authorities may have specific requirements regarding translators and the legalization of translations. For example, the Toronto Consulate states that where a translation is required, applicants should use a certified translator whose signature is deposited with the Consulate.
DG Notary can help coordinate the translation portion of your document package when a translation is required.
5. Assist With Preparing the Application Package
There may be several components to a DV application, including the application form, educational documents, copies, identification, apostilles, translations and payment where applicable.
I can help organize the documents so that your submission is prepared according to the current instructions provided by the appropriate Italian authority.
6. Assist With Submission by Mail or Courier
Depending on the current procedure, the completed package may be submitted by mail or courier.
For example, the Toronto Consulate currently provides instructions for mailing or couriering a completed Declaration of Value package and requires a prepaid, pre-addressed return envelope or appropriate courier arrangement for returning the documents.
DG Notary can assist with preparing and coordinating the package for submission.
7. Help Coordinate the Return of Your Original Documents
Educational documents may be required in original form. Properly preparing the return shipment is therefore an important part of the process.
I can help ensure the required return envelope or courier arrangements are included with your submission.
Need a Declaration of Value for Italy?
If you have received instructions from an Italian university, employer, government office or other organization requiring a Dichiarazione di Valore, DG Notary can help you understand the Canadian document requirements and coordinate the preparation of your application.
Contact DG Notary to discuss your documents and the steps required for your Declaration of Value application.
Email: contact@dg-notary.com
Phone, Text, WhatsApp: (647) 693-9973
Please note: DG Notary assists with document preparation and coordination. The Declaration of Value is issued solely by the competent Italian consular authority. Requirements, fees and processing procedures are determined by the Italian authorities and may change. Applicants should confirm the current requirements before submission.
