The Amendment to the Integration Course Test Ordinance Effective 1 November 2026 and Its Consequences for Migrants
The integration course is an important step for migrants in Germany on the path toward linguistic and social participation. At the end of the course stands the “German Test for Immigrants,” known as the DTZ, which assesses language skills in three areas: speaking, listening/reading, and writing. Anyone who reaches level B1 has successfully completed the language component of the course – with direct implications for residence status and naturalisation. With the ordinance of 13 October 2026, the Federal Minister of the Interior amended the requirements for passing this test. The new rule takes effect on 1 November 2026.
Until now, the test was considered passed if candidates reached level B1 in speaking as well as in at least one further area – either listening/reading or writing. For the remaining third area, no minimum level was prescribed. This meant that even someone who performed very poorly in, say, writing could still pass the test, as long as speaking and listening/reading were at B1 level.
This is now changing. Going forward, the remaining third area must also meet a minimum level of A2. This ensures that candidates demonstrate a more balanced language profile and are not deemed linguistically integrated despite significant gaps in one particular area. Someone who, for example, speaks and understands well but can barely write will therefore no longer pass the test under the new rule.
For migrants taking the DTZ from 1 November 2026 onward, the stricter requirements apply immediately – there is no transitional period, not even for those who have already begun their course. It is therefore advisable to use the remaining preparation time to work specifically on weaker skill areas as well. Course providers and teachers alike are called upon to adjust their test preparation accordingly.
In summary, this amounts to a targeted but noticeable tightening of the passing requirements. The message is clear: linguistic integration is meant to be broader in scope going forward, encompassing all essential skills.
For questions regarding migration law, the requirements for immigrants, and the recognition of foreign qualifications, per | lex is happy to assist.
Federal Law Gazette (BGBl.) 2026 I No. 306, pages 1–2; Ordinance Amending the Integration Course Test Ordinance of 20 October 2026