Following fraud: Government plans to tighten German language tests for immigrants.

Until now, a strong oral performance on the German Test for Immigrants (DTZ) could compensate for a poor written section, and the B1 certificate was still awarded. This will soon change. From November 1, 2026, anyone wanting to pass the DTZ with a B1 level must achieve B1 in speaking, B1 in one of the two written sections, and at least A2 in the third. Those seeking the certificate for a permanent residence permit or the Anyone seeking naturalization should therefore now check whether the DTZ is even the right path. Often, another language certificate leads to the goal faster and more reliably.

What will change regarding the German language test for immigrants from November 2026?

The DTZ is the final test of the integration course and in Section 17 of the Integration Ordinance (IntV) regulates this. It assesses three areas: listening and reading, writing, and speaking. Previously, for the B1 certificate, it was sufficient that speaking and one of the other two areas were at the B1 level. There was no minimum requirement for the third area. Therefore, a completely blank writing section had no impact on the overall result.

In the future, the amended examination rules will require at least A2 level even in the weakest language area. Those who fail to meet this threshold will receive either an A2 certificate or simply a notification of their exam result, depending on the outcome. The impact is significant: last year, approximately 318,000 people took the DTZ (German Language Test), and only slightly more than half achieved B1 level. Almost one in three remained at A2.

Why is the Federal Ministry of the Interior tightening the DTZ exam?

The background to this is a series of fraud cases. According to the Federal Ministry of the Interior, questions and solutions for the written exam were being illegally traded online. The listening and reading section, with its 45 multiple-choice questions, is particularly vulnerable. Those who know the answers can achieve a B1 level result without having understood the text. Previously, this, combined with a satisfactory oral exam score, was sufficient for the certificate, and the written section could simply be left blank. The Ministry cannot quantify how many test takers cheated in this way. The new minimum requirement is intended to close this loophole.

Who is affected by the stricter regulations, and who is not?

The change applies exclusively to the DTZ. Other recognized B1 exams, such as "telc Deutsch B1," the Goethe-Zertifikat B1, or the ÖSD-Zertifikat, are not affected. These exams can be taken independently of an integration course. The authorities recognize them for the purposes of obtaining a residence permit and the Naturalization is equally important.

Those most affected are people attending integration courses. These are often... spouses in Family reunification , which after They are obligated to participate according to § 44a of the Residence Act . Many others are also required to do so. Skilled workers , young professionals, and expats use the government-funded course because it is affordable and culminates in the DTZ (German Test for International Competence). For employers and HR departments supporting their international employees in consolidating their stay, this change is therefore more than just a minor detail.

What are the consequences of an A2 result for a residence permit and Naturalization ?

For a general residence permit, the following is required: Section 9, paragraph 2, sentence 1, number 7 of the Residence Act requires sufficient German language skills. Section 2, paragraph 11 of the Residence Act corresponds to level B1. The same applies to the Naturalization according to Section 10, paragraph 1, sentence 1, number 6 in conjunction with paragraph 4 of the German Nationality Act (StAG) . An A2 certificate does not meet this requirement. The application fails on this point, regardless of how complete all other documents are. Exceptions exist only in narrow limits, for example in cases of illness, disability, or age-related limitations ( Section 9, paragraph 2, sentence 3 of the German Residence Act (AufenthG) ). § 10 para. 6 StAG ).

For holders of the The EU Blue Card looks cheaper. After According to Section 18c Paragraph 2 of the German Residence Act (AufenthG), a permanent residence permit is possible after 27 months with German language skills at level A1, and even after 21 months with B1 level. Anyone who... skilled worker with Anyone with a Blue Card working in Germany should be aware of these procedures before committing to a DTZ appointment.

Conclusion

The tightening of the German test for immigrants is a reaction to cheating, but it also affects honest test takers who have previously benefited from the generous compensation rule. From November 1, 2026, every part of the test will count. Those seeking a permanent residence permit or the Anyone seeking naturalization should therefore view the language proficiency test as a strategic decision. This includes choosing the appropriate test, examining alternative forms of proof, and, for holders of the EU Blue Card : a look at the shortened deadlines. If an application is stalled or a certificate is questioned, we are happy to assist you.