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Residence & Migration

Apply for an integration course

Language and orientation course for integration, applied for through the BAMF – mandatory for many immigrants.

Processing: approx. 2 weeks
Online application possibleSuccess rate: 94.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Submit an application to the BAMF

    Online form or through the Office of Immigration and Naturalization.

  2. 2

    Wait for the approval notice

    Eligibility to participate in language and orientation courses.

  3. 3

    Find a course provider and register

    List of approved organizations on the BAMF website.

  4. 4

    Take the final exam

    German Language Test for Immigrants (DTZ) and the “Life in Germany” test.

Required documents

  • Residence permitMandatory
  • BAMF Approval NoticeMandatoryOften forgotten

Responsible authority

The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

approx. 2 weeks

Official: max. approx. 1 months

Online application

Online possible – at the responsible authority

Common mistakes

  • • Did not wait for the approval notice; started the course on one's own initiative
  • • Deadlines for the notice of commitment missed

Common reasons for rejection

  • • Already has sufficient knowledge of German (not eligible)

You can usually file an objection against a rejection.

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

New immigrants with a residence permit for employment purposes, family reunification, or as required by the immigration authorities, as well as those eligible on a voluntary basis.

Income limit

The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.

Processing time

Nationwide: approx. approx. 2 weeks

Success rate

approx. 94.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • •Did not wait for the approval notice; started the course on one's own initiative
  • •Deadlines for the notice of commitment missed

Common reasons for rejection

  • •Already has sufficient knowledge of German (not eligible)

Alternatives

  • Check related services in the application assistant
  • Use social counselling before applying

If rejected

File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.

Questions & Answers

How much does the integration course cost?▼

The regular rate is €2.29 per lesson; exemptions may be available for recipients of basic income or those with low incomes.

Read more

Handle Apply for an integration course online

Submit your application directly online – without visiting an office.

Start online application