Declaration of Value (DoV) for Italy - How To Guide
Complete Guide for Students, Universities, and Professionals
If you are planning to study, work, or continue your education in Italy, one of the most important requirements you will encounter is the Declaration of Value (Dichiarazione di Valore – DoV).
The DoV is not optional. It is a mandatory academic credential evaluation issued by the Italian Consulate that confirms the legitimacy, level, and accreditation of U.S. educational documents for use in Italy.
At Philadelphia Notary & Apostille, we specialize exclusively in Declaration of Value services for Italy, assisting students from local high schools, regional universities, Middle States–accredited institutions, and universities nationwide. Our firm manages the entire DoV process from start to finish, ensuring accurate preparation, successful submission, and timely results.
What Is a Declaration of Value (DoV)?
A Declaration of Value is an official statement issued by an Italian Consulate that certifies:
The authenticity of a U.S. diploma or degree or
The academic level of the credential (high school, bachelor’s, master’s, etc.)
The legal accreditation status of the issuing institution
The duration and structure of the academic program
Italian authorities rely on the DoV to determine whether a U.S. credential meets Italian educational standards. Without it, Italian universities, labor offices, and ministries cannot legally evaluate your education.
Who Needs a Declaration of Value?
We assist applicants seeking a DoV for:
🎓 University Admission in Italy
Required for enrollment in Italian universities, academies, and higher education institutions.
🏫 High School Diploma Recognition
Necessary for students applying for equivalency to the Italian Diploma di Maturità, often required for university access.
💼 Work Permits & EU Blue Card
Used for professional recognition, employment authorization, and immigration-based applications.
📜 Professional Degree Recognition
For regulated professions requiring credential validation before practicing in Italy.
📚 Continuation of Studies
Elementary, middle, or secondary school transfers to Italian institutions.
Our clients include:
Local Pennsylvania high schools and universities
Middle States Association–accredited schools
Colleges and universities across the United States
International students submitting through U.S.-based Italian Consulates
Why the DoV Process Is Often Confusing
Italian Consulates have very strict documentation requirements, and most U.S. schools are not familiar with the DoV process. Common issues include:
Incorrect or incomplete notarization
Documents notarized by the wrong authority
Missing apostilles
Improper formatting of verification letters
Translations that do not meet consular standards
Documents mailed incorrectly or rejected outright
Even small mistakes can result in months of delays or complete rejection.
That’s why working with a firm that specializes in Declaration of Value submissions is critical.
What Is Required for a Declaration of Value?
While requirements may vary slightly by consulate, most DoV applications require:
Required Academic Documents
Original or certified copy of diploma issued by the school and signed by the registrar or school official
Official academic transcripts issued by the registrar and signed
Verification or enrollment letter on school letterhead
Legalization & Authentication
Proper notarization by the registrar or authorized school official.
Apostille issued by the Secretary of State where the notary is commissioned.
Translation & Application Materials
Certified Italian translations of all required documents which include the transcript, diploma and notary pages.
Completed DoV request/application form
Copy of valid passport
⚠️ Important:
Documents cannot be copied or notarized by public notaries unrelated to the school. Italian Consulates only accept documents issued and notarized by the educational institution itself.
Our Declaration of Value Process: What We Do
We provide end-to-end Declaration of Value services, eliminating confusion and minimizing delays.
Step 1: Document Review & Strategy
We carefully review your academic background and determine exactly what documents are required based on your purpose (study, work, equivalency, etc.).
Step 2: School & Registrar Coordination
We work directly with:
Registrars
Principals
Heads of School
University officials
If a school does not have a notary, we arrange remote online notarization with authorized officials using consulate-accepted formats.
Step 3: Apostille Processing
We handle state-level apostille processing through the appropriate Secretary of State. Documents are hand-couriered—never mailed—ensuring security and speed.
Step 4: Certified Italian Translations
All translations are completed by certified Italian translators and include:
Certificates of accuracy
Complimentary notarization
Consulate-ready formatting in Word format for the Italian Consulate
Step 5: DoV Package Preparation & Submission
We assemble the full submission packet and submit directly to the Italian Consulate on your behalf. Our experience working closely with consular offices allows us to avoid common errors that lead to rejection.
Step 6: Tracking & Secure Return
Once processing is complete, we arrange secure domestic or international return shipping with tracking.
Why Choose Philadelphia Notary & Apostille?
✔ Dedicated Declaration of Value specialists
✔ Proven record of successful DoV submissions
✔ Experience with high schools, universities, and Middle States–accredited institutions
✔ Nationwide service regardless of school location
✔ Direct coordination with Italian Consulates
✔ Clear communication and transparent pricing
We don’t offer generic document services—we focus on getting your DoV approved correctly the first time.
Processing Times
Apostille Processing: 2–5 business days after receipt of school documents
Italian Consulate Review: Approximately 60–90 days
Shipping Options: Domestic and international with full tracking
Processing times may vary depending on document volume and consular workload.
Start Your Declaration of Value Today
If you are preparing to study, work, or continue your education in Italy, the Declaration of Value is one of the most important steps in your journey.
We make the process clear, compliant, and stress-free.
👉 Begin Your Order or Request a Quote
Use the secure form below to:
Start your Declaration of Value order
Request a personalized quote
Upload preliminary information
Ask questions about your specific situation
Our team will review your submission and guide you through the next steps.