The answer depends entirely on your visa type. Student, Blue Card, Chancenkarte — each has different requirements. Clarified here.
The most common confusion: which language certificate do I need? The answer differs by visa type.
English-taught programmes: IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+. German-taught: TestDaF (level 4) or DSH (level 2). APS certificate required separately.
No German language requirement to apply. German B1 shortens your PR path from 27 to 21 months — highly recommended but not required at visa application stage.
No mandatory language certificate, but German B1 or A2 gives bonus points toward the 6-point threshold. English C1 also scores points. Check your Chancenkarte score with our calculator.
The joining spouse typically needs German A1 (Goethe-Zertifikat A1). Blue Card spouses are exempt — a significant benefit of the Blue Card for families.
