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Proof of language skills for visa
In these cases, you need German language skills for a visa in Germany: All about language certificates
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1. What language levels are there in Germany?
2. Which visas require German language skills?
3. Which visas do not require proof of language proficiency?
4. German language skills and spouse reunification
5. FAQ Language Visa
6. Conclusion
1. Proof of language proficiency for a visa: When is knowledge of German necessary?
For many residence permits in Germany, language proficiency plays a crucial role. The classification is based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages . The scale ranges from A1 (basic knowledge) to C1 (near-native proficiency). The required level for each purpose is regulated by law. For example, level A1 is considered basic language skills, while B1 is considered sufficient and B2 is considered good language skills (see Section 2 Paragraphs 9-12 of the Residence Act ).
Proof of language proficiency is usually provided through recognized language certificates . The Goethe Institute is one of the best-known providers. Telc or TestDaF exams are also often accepted. It is important that the certificate is current and recognized by the immigration authorities or embassy. In certain cases, however, proof of language proficiency may also be possible through everyday conversation (without a certificate) (see, for example, the Federal Ministry of the Interior's Guidelines for the Residence Act, Section 28.2.4 ).
2. Knowledge of German is required for these stays
Not every visa requires language skills , but for certain residence permits, German is a must. For example, those wishing to complete a qualified vocational training program in Germany generally need language skills at least at level B1. Proof of language skills is also often required for visas seeking a university place or for the Opportunity Card visa for non-recognized skilled workers. As a general rule, German language skills are always required if the job requires it (see Plausibility ).
A similar situation applies to recognition procedures in the healthcare sector : Doctors applying for their license to practice medicine must also demonstrate language skills. Likewise, good German language skills are required for a settlement permit , a permanent EU residence permit , or naturalization . In all of these cases, language skills are a key prerequisite for integration and professional success in Germany. Special conditions apply to the immigration of spouses (see below).
3. These visas do not require proof of language proficiency
In many cases , however, the law waives the requirement for proof of language skills . Certain groups of skilled workers , in particular, do not require proof of German language skills for their visa. This includes, in particular, skilled workers with academic or vocational training who fall under Section 18a or Section 18b of the Residence Act. Researchers , scientists, and IT specialists with an ICT card or on assignment (Section 19) are also exempt from the language requirement.
Furthermore, there is no general requirement for self-employed persons and entrepreneurs (Section 21 of the Residence Act) to speak German. The focus here is on the economic viability of the project, not language skills. Nevertheless, even with these visas, it can be beneficial to learn German – especially for everyday life and integration in the country.
4. German language skills for spouses joining their spouses
For spouses joining a foreigner, proof of language proficiency at A1 level is generally required . This means the person joining the family must demonstrate basic language skills before being permitted to enter Germany. This is regulated by law in Section 30 of the Residence Act. The goal is to facilitate the integration of family members and create a language foundation for life in Germany.
However, there are numerous exceptions to this rule . For example, no proof of language proficiency is required if the spouse living in Germany has an EU Blue Card, works as a researcher, or has an ICT card. The language proficiency requirement can also be waived for spouses of highly qualified individuals or in cases of particular hardship – such as illness or disability. Humanitarian reasons and visa-free nationalities are also exceptions, meaning no knowledge of German is required prior to entry. A complete list of all exceptions to the language requirement for spouses joining their spouses can be found in Section 30, Paragraph 1, Sentence 2 of the Residence Act .
5. FAQ
Which language certificates are accepted for a visa?
Recognized certificates usually come from the Goethe-Institut, telc, or TestDaF. It is important that the certificate is current and accepted by the German diplomatic mission or immigration authority.
How long is a language certificate valid?
There is no official expiration date, but authorities generally expect a current certificate – usually no older than one or two years.
Does the language certificate also apply to children joining their families?
No. For children who come to Germany as part of family reunification, proof of language proficiency is generally not required.
Are there exceptions to the language requirement for spouses joining their spouses?
Yes, for example, for spouses of EU Blue Card holders, researchers, or in cases of particular hardship. Proof of eligibility may also be waived for certain nationalities or disabilities.
6. Conclusion
Knowledge of German is a key criterion for many types of visas for Germany. However, there is no general rule that requires proof of language proficiency for all visas (unless the job description specifies German language skills). The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) provides a uniform scale for language levels on which legislation and practice are based. For spouses, trainees, students, or those seeking naturalization, basic to good language skills are essential in many cases. Nevertheless, there are numerous exceptions – particularly for highly qualified specialists , scientists , or for family or humanitarian reasons. It is important to find out early on whether the planned visa requires language skills, what language level must be proven, and which certificates are recognized. Those who start learning the language early on significantly increase their chances of a successful visa process and successful integration in Germany.
List of Sources (Paywall)
[1] Bergmann / Dienelt, Aliens Law, 15th edition 2025, § 2
[2] Regarding the language certificate requirement for Turkish nationals when applying for a settlement permit, see BVerwG, judgment of 28 April 2015 - 1 C 21.14
[3] Visa Handbook, Language Certificates, Status: 08/2024