Check whether your diploma gives you access to the profession

Are you thinking of starting a business? Do you have a diploma, certificate or other qualification, but you're not sure whether it provides you with the necessary requirements? Browse the DIPLO database to find out whether your training qualifies you to demonstrate entrepreneurial skills.

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What skills do you need to be able to prove to start a business? 

Walloon regulations require that all commercial and artisanal businesses have the following skills: 

  • basic management knowledge such as law, accounting and business management (for any activity);
  • professional skills (for the 21 regulated activities listed below).

These entrepreneurial skills can be proven with a diploma or professional experience. They can be provided by the company manager or another person connected with the business. 
 

How do I know if my diploma proves my entrepreneurial skills? 

The DIPLO database lists diplomas, degrees and certificates from all over the world and helps you determine whether your qualifications meet entrepreneurial requirements. Look up your diploma to find out which activities it gives you access to.

 

If DIPLO can't find your diploma or you are in doubt, contact a Business Counter. They can advise you on your personal situation.

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What are the regulated professions? 

Management

Law, accounting, business management, etc.

Vehicles: cross-sector skills

used vehicle retail trade and/or bodywork

Motor vehicles with a maximum mass of up to 3.5 tonnes

For the repair and maintenance of small vehicles

Motor vehicles with a maximum mass of over 3.5 tonnes

For the repair and maintenance of large vehicles

Bicycles: cycle activities

For the sale and repair of bicycles

Construction: General contractor

For site supervision with several participants

Construction: Structural work

For the construction, repair and demolition of building frames

Construction: Plastering, cementing and screeding

For covering floors, walls and ceilings

Construction: Tiling, marble and natural stone

For covering floors and walls

Construction: Roofing and waterproofing

For carpentry work, roofing and waterproofing (facade, roof and floors)

Construction: Placement/repair of joinery and glazing

For frames, doors, shutters, gates, stairs, furniture, etc.

Construction: General joinery

For covering walls and floors with wood materials

Construction: Finishing (painting, wallpapering, soft coverings)

For painting, wallpapering, carpeting, etc.

Construction: Central heating, air conditioning, gas and sanitary installations

For installation and repair

Construction: Electrotechnical engineering

For electrical appliance repair and electrical work

Refrigeration installer

For the manufacture, assembly and maintenance of household and industrial refrigerators

Hairdressing

For the hairdressing profession

Beauty

For the beauty profession

Optician

For the sale, maintenance and repair of optical equipment

Undertakers

For the care and transport of the deceased and the organisation of funeral ceremonies

Restaurateur/caterer/banquet organiser

For the preparation of meals consumed on site or served externally

Bakery

For the preparation of bread, bakery products and pastries

Other than the company manager, who else can bring entrepreneurial skills to the business? 

For a self-employed person (natural person), this person can be:

  • A spouse;
  • A legal cohabitant;
  • A partner who has been cohabiting with the individual for at least 6 months;
  • A self-employed assistant, parent or relative up to the third degree;
  • An employee with a permanent employment contract.

 

For a business (legal entity), this person can be:

  • The management body (e.g.: a manager of a limited liability company or a managing director of a public limited company);
  • A company director (e.g.: an active partner in a limited liability company or a director of a public limited company);
  • An employee with a permanent employment contract.

 

If in doubt, contact a Business Counter. They'll be able to tell you if you have the required skills for your activity.

What if I don't have the required skills? 

For individuals who do not have the training or professional experience required, they have the option of taking an exam before the central jury .

If successful, the interested party receives a certificate that will be accepted as proof.