Nuclear qualification of automation (i.e. instrumentation and control systems) has presented a significant challenge for new build and modernization projects during this millennium. Nuclear qualification requirements and differences in national qualification approaches represent a significant commercial risk for potential instrumentation and control (I&C) system suppliers. In particular, compliance with regulatory requirements in one national regulatory environment does not directly allow cross acceptance in another regulatory environment. In this paper, a more holistic approach to nuclear qualification processes is proposed to better understand the concept of qualified automation for nuclear power plants. A lifecycle-based conceptual framework for the nuclear qualification of automation is presented in order to facilitate re-use of qualified engineering artefacts. The proposed conceptual framework is intended for management of differences in national regulations and to allow early identification of gaps and potentially overlapping activities. Recognized international standards and related studies related to qualification are identified and the means to develop a normative basis for nuclear qualification are discussed. Furthermore, a functional approach to qualification is proposed based on a universal concept of functional safety (as defined in IEC 61508 standard) and nuclear sector’s functional defense in depth concept. Top-down requirements specification and qualification processes are suggested to improve the effectiveness of qualification processes planning. Lastly, a concept of a pre-qualification process in an early pre-contractual stage is introduced and a case study regarding pre-qualification is presented.