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Language skills naturalization
All information about the language skills required for naturalization.
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About this Page
what language skills you need for naturalization
how language skills are proven for naturalization
whether language certificates for naturalization expire
what exceptions there are for language certificates for naturalization
Table of Contents
1. Language skills for naturalization
2. Proof of language skills
3. Expiry of language certificates
4. Exceptions to language certificates for naturalization
4.1 Proof of language skills for naturalization in cases of particular hardship
4.2 Proof of language skills and physical/age-related limitations
4.3 Proof of language proficiency for naturalization of the guest worker generation
4.4 Proof of language proficiency for naturalization of minors
5. FAQ
6. Conclusion Language certificate for naturalization
1. Language skills for naturalization
Anyone wishing to acquire German citizenship must meet certain requirements. One of the key requirements is proof of sufficient German language skills . But what does that mean exactly? What language levels are required, and what proof is accepted? This article provides you with all the important information regarding language skills for naturalization.
For naturalization in Germany, language level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is required ( Section 10, Paragraph 1, Sentence 1, No. 6 of the German Citizenship Act ). This means that applicants must be able to communicate in German in a simple and coherent manner – both orally and in writing.
Language level B1 includes the following skills:
Understanding everyday language and simple technical texts,
Participating in conversations about familiar topics,
Writing simple texts on familiar topics.
2. Proof of language skills
However, not all language certificates are accepted by the naturalization authorities as proof of language skills in the naturalization process. The following language certificates are generally accepted by the naturalization authorities:
a certificate from the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees confirming successful participation in a language course as part of an integration course
Certificate of German (B 1 GER) or an equivalent or higher language diploma
at least four years of successful attendance at a German-speaking school
Secondary school leaving certificate or at least equivalent German school leaving certificate
Transfer to the tenth grade of a secondary German-language school (Realschule, Gymnasium or Gesamtschule)
Completion of a degree from a German-speaking university or university of applied sciences
intensive study of the German language as part of a foreign degree program (e.g. as a linguist or interpreter)
If the required German language skills are not demonstrated, or are not sufficiently demonstrated, by certificates or diplomas, the naturalization applicant must complete a language course , unless the citizenship authority is convinced, based on a personal interview, that the applicant clearly possesses the required language skills. In these cases, a language test may be waived.
3. Expiry of language certificates
Contrary to popular belief , language certificates do not lose their validity over time . Even a language test taken a long time ago can therefore be used for the naturalization application. However, it should be noted that the language skills must still be present at the time of application. Therefore, even old certificates or diplomas are considered proof of sufficient German language skills and are binding for the citizenship authority, unless there are substantial doubts about the naturalization applicant's certified German language skills. In this case, the citizenship authority must first inquire with the body issuing the certificate about the proper certification of the naturalization applicant's German language skills before new proof can be requested.
4. Exceptions to language certificates for naturalization
4.1 Proof of language skills for naturalization in cases of particular hardship
In certain cases, an exception to the language proficiency requirement for naturalization can be made. If a person fails to reach the B1 level despite serious and sustained efforts , a lower language level may suffice ( Section 10, Paragraph 4a of the German Citizenship Act ). The prerequisite is that the person can communicate orally in everyday life, i.e., can hold simple conversations in German. But be careful: It is not enough to simply enroll in language courses. You must prove that you have actually attended the courses and made a serious effort to learn German. In practical terms, therefore, a certificate stating that you have not passed the language test and cannot be passed again is required.
4.2 Proof of language skills for naturalization in cases of physical or age-related limitations
In special cases, the requirement to provide proof of language proficiency is waived entirely. This applies if someone is unable to learn the language due to a physical, mental or psychological illness, a disability, or old age ( Section 10, Paragraph 6 of the StAG ). In such cases, proof of language skills is not required – even at a lower level. Important: Not every illness is sufficient. Only those who are permanently prevented from expressing themselves linguistically or acquiring knowledge about life in Germany due to their illness can waive the proof. This must be documented by a medical certificate – unless the condition is obvious.
4.3 Proof of language proficiency for naturalization of the guest worker generation
Many people who came to Germany between 1955 and 1990 under a recruitment agreement or as contract workers now wish to obtain German citizenship. For this group—often referred to as the guest worker generation —special rules apply regarding language proficiency. For naturalization, it is sufficient if guest workers can communicate orally in German in everyday life —without major difficulties. In this case, the submission of a language certificate is not required for guest workers ( Section 10, Paragraph 4, Sentence 3 of the German Citizenship Act ).
4.4 Proof of language proficiency for naturalization of minors
Special rules also apply to minors regarding proof of language proficiency for naturalization. According to Section 10, Paragraph 4, Sentence 2 of the Naturalization Act (StAG) , a minor child who has not yet turned 16 at the time of naturalization meets the language proficiency requirements if their language development is appropriate for their age . Age-appropriate language development for minor children subject to compulsory schooling must be demonstrated by school reports . If the child is still attending kindergarten, a corresponding certificate from the kindergarten must be obtained.
5. FAQ
What language level is required for naturalization?
For naturalization, language proficiency at level B1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is required. Applicants must be able to communicate in German, hold conversations, and write simple texts (Section 10 (1) Sentence 1 No. 6 of the German Citizenship Act).
How can I prove my language skills for naturalization?
Acceptable qualifications include a German Certificate (B1), completion of an integration course, a German school leaving certificate, a degree program taught in German, or proof of several years of schooling in Germany. Older certificates are also valid, provided the relevant knowledge is still present.
Do language certificates lose their validity over time?
No. Language certificates do not expire. However, it is crucial that the language skills are still present at the time of application. If there is any doubt, the authority may inquire about authenticity or currency.
Are there any exceptions to the language requirement for naturalization?
Yes. Exceptions apply in cases of health restrictions, advanced age, proven hardship, or for members of the guest worker generation. Minors under 16 are also exempt from B1 proof under certain conditions. In these cases, school reports or a kindergarten certificate, for example, are sufficient.
6. Conclusion
Anyone wishing to apply for German citizenship must generally prove that they have German language skills at level B1. This means they should be able to communicate in everyday life, hold conversations, and write simple texts. This proof can be provided in the form of language certificates , school leaving certificates, or a completed degree program in German. Even evidence from a long time ago is valid – the important thing is that the language skills are still present. However, there are exceptions to the B1 language skills requirement for naturalization: those who, despite best efforts, cannot improve their language skills to B1 level, or who have health restrictions, can be given a simplified test or be completely exempt from the language certificate. First-generation guest workers and underage children are also exempt from proving their language skills.