In Costa Rica, specific regulations govern the recognition of foreign-issued diplomas. The procedures under these regulations are open to refugees and asylum seekers within the country, requiring them to submit applications to CONARE's Office of Recognition and Alignment of Degrees and Titles (The National Council of Rectors ). CONARE is the constitutional entity that coordinates the State University Higher Education System.  Upon recognition, individuals must follow the corresponding procedure with the relevant Professional Association to practice their profession. Refugees who complete these steps can engage in their professions through wage earning employment but asylum seekers are not able to have access to self-employment modalities. In these processes, the administrative assistance principle from Costa Rican legislation applies, which permits exempting asylum seekers and refugees from certain consultation procedures involving their State of origin or State of habitual residence.