Integration Course

The Integration Course: Your Start in Germany

Welcome to Germany! If you have found a job and started your new life here, an integration course can help you feel more confident in everyday life and at work. You can improve your German language skills while learning more about life, culture, and society in Germany.

What Do You Learn in the Course?

An integration course usually consists of 700 hours and has two main parts.

Learning German (600 hours): You learn German up to level B1, focusing on practical everyday situations such as shopping, communicating with colleagues, writing letters, and making phone calls.

Life in Germany (100 hours): You learn about German history, laws, culture, and society. You also learn about important rights and responsibilities in Germany.

Why Is the Course Useful?

• Permanent residence: Completing the integration course can help you meet certain requirements for a permanent residence permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis).
• Social connections: You meet other people who are also building a new life in Germany.
• Better career opportunities: Improving your German can make communication at work easier and may open up additional career opportunities.
• Everyday confidence: Better German skills make it easier to deal with authorities, healthcare providers, banks, and other everyday situations.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of an integration course depends on your individual situation.

• Standard contribution: Participants generally pay a contribution per lesson.
• Reduced or free of charge: Depending on your income and circumstances, you may be eligible for a reduction or exemption from the course contribution.

Check the current BAMF requirements and rates before enrolling.

Combining the Course with Work

Working full-time? There are different course formats that may make it easier to combine learning with your job:

• Evening courses – Learn after work.
• Weekend courses – Attend classes outside regular working hours.
• Part-time courses – Spread the lessons over a longer period.
• Online or blended courses – Depending on the provider, some lessons may be available online.

How to Start

1. Check your eligibility: Find out whether you are entitled or required to attend an integration course and obtain the necessary confirmation or certificate.
2. Find a course provider: Look for an approved language school, such as a local Volkshochschule (VHS), in your area.
3. Take a placement test: The course provider may assess your German language level so you can join the appropriate course.
4. Start the course: Complete the language course and the orientation course.

For more information, check the official BAMF information or contact an approved integration course provider in your city.