German Integration Course (Integrationskurs): Complete Guide for Expats (2026)
The German Integration Course (Integrationskurs) is a government-funded programme that combines a German language course with an orientation course on German law, history and culture. For many expats and immigrants, it is the fastest and most affordable route to B1-level German — and in some cases it is legally required. Here is everything you need to know.
What Is the Integrationskurs?
The Integrationskurs is run by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF — Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge). It consists of two parts:
- Language course: 600 teaching units covering German from A1 to B1 level
- Orientation course (Orientierungskurs): 100 teaching units covering German law, history, culture and democratic values
Total: 700 teaching units. One teaching unit is 45 minutes.
Who Must Attend the Integrationskurs?
Attendance may be mandatory (Verpflichtung) or optional depending on your situation:
Mandatory for:
- New arrivals from non-EU countries with a residence permit for work, family reunification or humanitarian reasons, if their German is below B1 level
- People receiving Bürgergeld (social benefits) if the Jobcenter requires it
- People with a settlement permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) application pending
Eligible to attend voluntarily (on request):
- EU citizens living in Germany
- Long-term residents who never completed the course
- Anyone with a valid residence permit and insufficient German skills
- German resettlers (Spätaussiedler)
How Much Does the Integrationskurs Cost?
The course is heavily subsidised by the German government:
| Group | Cost per Teaching Unit | Total Course Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Standard participant | €1.95 per unit | ~€1,365 for 700 units |
| Bürgergeld recipients | Free | €0 |
| Low income (on application) | Free | €0 |
| Asylum seekers (permitted) | Free | €0 |
You can apply for a fee waiver (Gebührenerlass) at the course provider if you have low income. Bring proof of income or benefit receipts.
How Long Does the Integrationskurs Take?
This depends on how intensively you study:
- Intensive (full-time, 5 days/week): approximately 6–8 months
- Part-time (2–3 days/week): approximately 12–18 months
- Evening course: approximately 18–24 months
Some providers offer online or hybrid formats, which became more common after 2020. Ask your local course provider about availability.
How to Register for the Integrationskurs
- Get a referral (Berechtigungsschein) from your Ausländerbehörde, Jobcenter or BAMF. This is the document that authorises you to take the course at the subsidised rate.
- Find a course provider near you using the BAMF course finder at bamf.de — search by postcode for approved Kursträger (course providers). These include VHS (adult education centres), language schools and private providers.
- Register with the provider — bring your referral document, passport and residence permit.
- Take the placement test — you may start at A1, A2 or B1 depending on your existing German level.
What Happens at the End?
At the end of the course you take two tests:
- DTZ (Deutsch-Test für Zuwanderer) — the language exam at B1 level
- Leben in Deutschland — the orientation course exam
Passing both gives you the Integrationskurs-Zertifikat. This certificate is useful for:
- Permanent residence (Niederlassungserlaubnis) applications
- German citizenship (Einbürgerung) — may reduce the required residency period from 8 to 6 years
- General proof of German language skills for employers
Integrationskurs vs Other German Language Options
| Option | Cost | Level Reached | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Integrationskurs (BAMF) | ~€1,365 or free | A1 → B1 | Non-EU immigrants, long-term residents |
| VHS (Volkshochschule) | €100–300/course | A1 → C2 | Affordable, flexible scheduling |
| Babbel | From €6.99/mo | A1 → B2 | Self-study, flexible, daily practice |
| Private language school | €800–2,000+ | Any level | Fast results, intensive programmes |
| Online tutor (e.g. Preply) | €15–50/hour | Any level | Personalised, 1-on-1 practice |
Supplement Your Course with Babbel
Babbel’s German course is designed around real-life conversations — ideal to practise alongside your Integrationskurs or get a head start before it begins.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Integrationskurs
- Attend consistently — absences are tracked. Missing too many classes can affect your subsidy and certificate eligibility
- Use Babbel or Duolingo daily between lessons to reinforce vocabulary
- Speak German outside class — in shops, at the Bürgeramt, with neighbours. Every real conversation counts more than an hour of classroom study
- Join the orientation course seriously — the Leben in Deutschland test is genuinely useful for daily life and required for citizenship
- Ask about childcare (Kinderbetreuung) — many course providers offer free childcare during classes for parents with young children
Frequently Asked Questions
Can EU citizens join the Integrationskurs?
Yes. EU citizens are not obligated to attend but can register voluntarily if places are available. You will need to request a Berechtigungsschein from the BAMF or your local Ausländerbehörde confirming your eligibility.
What happens if I fail the DTZ language test?
You can retake the test. BAMF allows one free repeat attempt. If you fail twice, you may need to pay for additional teaching units to improve before retaking.
Does completing the Integrationskurs guarantee German citizenship?
No, but it helps. Successfully completing the course and passing both tests can reduce the required residency period for naturalisation from 8 years to 6 years (or 3 years for special achievements). It is one of several requirements for citizenship, not the only one.
Can I do the Integrationskurs online?
Since 2020, BAMF has approved online and hybrid formats at many course providers. Availability varies by provider and region. Check the BAMF course finder (bamf.de) and filter by online delivery options when searching.
I already speak B1 German. Do I still have to attend?
No. If you can prove B1 level or above (through a recognised language certificate such as Goethe-Zertifikat or TestDaF), you are exempt from mandatory attendance. You may still choose to take the orientation course (100 units) alone, which is relevant for citizenship applications.
