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Legal requirements to practice: degree, professional registration and liability insurance - practical psychology
Practicing a profession in full compliance with the law is not simply a matter of having the vocation and the necessary knowledge. In Spain, as in many other countries, there are a number of essential legal requirements to be able to carry out your professional activity legally and avoid possible sanctions or liabilities. These fundamental requirements are: holding a qualifying academic degree, mandatory registration with the relevant professional association (in those cases where it is required), and taking out professional liability insurance.
The academic degree is the foundation upon which your professional career is built. It is the document that certifies that you have acquired the knowledge and competencies necessary to practice a given profession. Experience or practical skills alone are not enough; the degree is the official proof of your training and legally enables you to carry out your activity.
The validity of a degree depends on the profession you wish to practice and the applicable regulations. In general, official university degrees (Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate) are the most common and recognized. However, there are also vocational training qualifications or professional certificates that may be valid for certain professions. It is essential to verify that the degree you hold is recognized and authorized for the profession you want to practice.
If you obtained your degree abroad, you may need to have it recognized or validated in Spain for it to be valid. The recognition process varies depending on the country of origin of the degree and the profession you wish to practice. We recommend that you inquire at the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training or at the relevant professional association about the necessary procedures.
Registration with a professional association is the enrollment in the association corresponding to your activity. Not all professions require mandatory registration, but where it is required, it is an essential prerequisite to practice legally. Registration ensures that you meet the required training and professional ethics standards demanded to carry out your activity.
Some of the professions that require mandatory registration in Spain include: lawyers, court representatives (procuradores), doctors, architects, engineers, pharmacists, dentists, veterinarians, psychologists, among others. The complete list may vary by autonomous community, so it is important to check the specific regulations of your place of residence.
In addition to being a legal requirement, registration offers a number of benefits for professionals. Professional associations usually offer continuing education services, legal advice, defense of professional interests, access to job pools, group professional liability insurance policies, and other advantages that can be very useful for the development of your career.
Professional liability insurance is a policy that financially protects you in case you cause damage to third parties in the exercise of your profession. It is a fundamental tool to protect your personal assets and avoid having to face costly compensation claims in the event that you make an error or professional negligence.
Professional liability insurance usually covers the following:
It is essential to choose a liability insurance policy that is tailored to the characteristics of your profession and the risks you assume in your activity. You should take into account the insured amount, the coverages included, the exclusions, and the deductible (if any). We recommend that you compare different offers and consult a specialized insurance broker to advise you on the best option for you.