Homeschooling and online education remain on the rise across Europe. For families considering CHS Online, understanding which countries legally accept homeschooling and under what conditions is essential. Below is a continent-wide overview of legal statuses as of 2025, plus what families should know when living, relocating or travelling across Europe.
Why Legal Status Matters
Regulation varies widely between European nations. In some countries, homeschooling (or home-education / online schooling) is legally recognised and regulated. In others it remains illegal, or falls into a grey area. For globally mobile families, such as expatriates or travellers, knowing local laws is vital to stay compliant while ensuring continuity of education.
An accredited online school such as CHS Online can offer a structured, internationally recognised curriculum but legal acceptance depends on local regulations.
Countries Where Homeschooling / Home-Education / Online Schooling Is Legal or Regulated
These countries permit homeschooling (or home education), often under regulatory conditions such as notification, periodic assessments or supervision by a recognised school entity.
Austria
In Austria, parents can legally choose to educate their children at home. Families opting for home education must notify local authorities at the beginning of the school year. Homeschooled children are expected to meet national education standards and typically sit annual evaluations.
Belgium
In Belgium, home education is legal and considered a constitutional right. The rules differ depending on region (Flemish, French- or German-speaking communities) but generally parents must register and present a curriculum plan. Children homeschooled there will undergo standardised testing at set ages to ensure national benchmarks are met.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic allows home education under certain conditions. Usually, permission is only granted for primary-school children. Parents must meet requirements and children are required to take official exams twice a year.
Denmark
In Denmark, homeschooling is legal provided the education given at home is equivalent to what children would get in the state system. Authorities may carry out inspections to make sure standards are maintained.
Estonia
In Estonia, home education is allowed but children must be registered under an authorised school. Homeschooled students are required to pass annual exams. Diplomas are typically issued by the supervising school.
Finland
Finland recognises home-education as an alternative to its public school system. Parents who choose this path must ensure their children follow national guidelines. Periodic assessments ensure students make satisfactory progress.
France
In France, homeschooling is legally permitted but under strict regulation, especially since recent law changes. Families must register their intent to home-educate with local authorities. Annual inspections or assessments check that learning meets required standards.
Ireland
In Ireland, parents are free to provide home-education. The right to educate children at home is constitutionally protected there. Homeschooling families must follow certain guidelines to ensure the child receives an appropriate and full-time education.
Italy
Italy allows home education under its constitution. Parents may choose to teach children at home and are required to follow nationally accepted standards. Homeschooled children usually undergo official examinations to verify their progress.
Latvia
In Latvia, homeschooling is legal under supervision by an authorised school. Students must sit annual exams and follow curricula comparable to state schools. Diplomas or certifications are issued by the supervising institution.
Liechtenstein
Home education in Liechtenstein is permitted under specific conditions. Parents who homeschool must obtain approval from local school authorities. The education must meet requirements equivalent to the public school standard.
Lithuania
Lithuania allows home education under regulation. Parents choosing this option must coordinate with a recognised school and ensure children meet required learning standards through periodic evaluation.
Luxembourg
In Luxembourg, homeschooling is legally permitted. Families opting for this form of schooling need to meet national guidelines. Homeschooling there remains a recognised alternative to public schooling.
Norway
Norway allows home education as long as the education given matches public school standards. Local authorities supervise homeschooling arrangements to ensure children receive proper instruction.
Poland
In Poland, home education is permitted under regulation. Every homeschooled child must be supervised by an authorised school and take annual exams. Diplomas are issued by the supervising institution.
Portugal
Portugal permits home education under national law. Homeschooling families must follow established curricula and often comply with exam requirements. Home education has become a viable alternative for families there.
Slovakia
In Slovakia, home education is allowed under certain limited conditions. Permission must be granted by state authorities. Often this option is allowed only for younger children, and periodic evaluations are required.
Slovenia
Slovenia permits home education in some circumstances. Families choosing this must ensure that their education plan meets official standards. Homeschooled children may need to enrol in local schools for certain exam subjects.
Switzerland
In Switzerland home education is legal in many cantons but laws vary across regions. Families must check the rules of their particular canton. Typically home-educated children must pass certain exams and may be subject to inspections.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, home education (or distance/online schooling) is legal and commonly practiced. Parents have the freedom to choose curricula and style of education as long as children receive a full-time education suitable to their age and ability. Registration requirements are minimal in many areas.
Countries Where Homeschooling Is Restricted or Banned
Germany
In Germany, homeschooling is not permitted under its law requiring school attendance. Authorities enforce this strictly and homeschooling without permission can lead to fines or legal action. Families living there who wish to homeschool must consider approved private education or other alternatives.
Netherlands
The Netherlands generally does not recognise homeschooling. The law requires children to attend formal schooling. Exceptions are rare and only granted under very specific religious or philosophical reasons — these exemptions are hard to obtain.
Malta
In Malta home-education is not recognised as a valid alternative to traditional schooling. Public school attendance is mandatory and homeschooling is not broadly permitted.
Navigating Homeschooling and Online Education Across Europe with CHS Online
The rules around homeschooling and online education across Europe can feel confusing and inconsistent. Each country has its own expectations, approval processes, and levels of flexibility, which can make long-term planning difficult for families. CHS Online supports families by offering a structured and internationally focused online education that fits within this diverse European landscape.
Whether families need help understanding local requirements, ensuring their child follows a recognised academic pathway, or maintaining educational continuity while relocating, CHS Online provides guidance every step of the way. Our approach combines high academic standards with flexibility, helping families make informed decisions that work within national regulations while still prioritising each child’s needs.
Families choosing CHS Online benefit from an education that adapts to individual learning styles and personal goals. With experienced educators, clear academic structure, and a globally minded curriculum, students can continue learning confidently regardless of where they are based in Europe.
Want to understand how CHS Online can support your family’s educational journey in Europe? Speak to one of our academic advisors today for personalised guidance and next steps.