Frequently Asked Questions Certificate of Professional Competence

Answer
Persons who wish to apply for a certificate of professional competence but who have not yet taken the mandatory examinations in Dutch law and the professional code of conduct may ask CEA for a preliminary opinion as to whether the accounting qualification that they possess will meet the requirements for a certificate of professional competence.

However, the provisional opinion of CEA has no legal effect.

Answer
A preliminary opinion provides a level of clarity regarding your possibility to obtain a certificate of professional competence, even though you have not yet taken the legally required examinations.   

To obtain a preliminary opinion the same documentary evidence must be provided that is required when submitting an application. Based on the outcome of the preliminary opinion, you can assess your chances of obtaining a certificate of professional competence. However, the provisional opinion of CEA has no legal effect.

Answer
No. A preliminary opinion is a service that CEA offers and is therefore optional. You can also submit an application for a certificate of professional competence with CEA directly, when you have all required documentation available. Also, be aware that a preliminary opinion by CEA has no legal effect.

Answer
Yes, because a preliminary opinion is optional and has no legal effect.

An application for a certificate of professional competence must always be submitted to CEA in writing, via a special application form, along with legalised copies of the required diplomas and/or or documentary evidence.

Make sure that you send in the right application form. There are four different forms. The form that you need to use depends on whether you wish to be listed in the AA or RA accounting register and on the origin of your personal accounting qualification (within or outside the European Union).