German language skills
Learning German is not only relevant with regard to obtaining or renewing a residence permit. Language skills contribute significantly to integration and mutual understanding between immigrants and the host society.
Language levels
The decisive point is the classification of language proficiency levels in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (“Gemeinsamen Europäischen Referenzrahmen für Sprachen”):
- Level A reflects elementary language skills (basic user).
- Level B reflects an independent use of the language (independent user).
- Level C reflects a proficient use of the language (proficient user).
In turn, each level is divided into two sub-levels. This means that there are six levels in total: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2. German language skills up to a B2 level are relevant for immigration and residence in Austria.
In particular, the Austrian Integration Fund (“Österreichischer Integrationsfonds” - ÖIF) is responsible for issuing these German certificates. You can find information concerning materials, course materials, sample examinations, recognized German language institutes and test dates on the ÖIF website.
Additional Information
Further information on German classes.
Further useful information.
