- Certified language exam

German test for immigrants DTZ A2-B1

The German Test for Immigrants (DTZ) is a standardized language test that is taken at the end of an integration course. It serves as official proof of German language skills acquired at levels A2 or B1 in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The DTZ exam is a key element for integration, career orientation, and residence permit procedures in Germany.

🧭 Target groups & requirements

In principle, anyone participating in an integration course can be admitted to the DTZ exam.

This includes, for example:

  • Immigrants with a permanent or long-term residence permit
  • Ethnic German repatriates (Section 4 of the Federal Expellees Act)
  • Asylum seekers with good prospects of remaining
  • Persons tolerated under Section 60a (2) sentence 3 of the Residence Act
  • EU citizens or German nationals with language support needs (in special cases)

Participants need authorization to attend the integration course or take the exam, which is issued by the BAMF, job center, or immigration office.

German test for immigrants DTZ

📚 Structure of the DTZ exam

🗣️ 1. Written section (100 minutes)

  • Listening comprehension (25 minutes)
  • Reading comprehension (45 minutes)
  • Written expression (30 minutes)

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 2. Oral part (15 minutes, usually in pairs)

  • Brief introduction
  • Ask and answer questions
  • Talking about everyday topics (shopping, work, leisure time, health, etc.)
German test for immigrants

German exam for immigrants

Integration through language.

🎯 Learning objectives & assessment

The exam tests practical communication in everyday situations.

Language skills are assessed in realistic situations:

  • Communication at work and with authorities
  • Conversations with neighbors, colleagues, doctors
  • Formulating simple written requests
  • Understanding and passing on information

Results:

  • B1 (Pass): Successful language use at an intermediate level
  • A2 (partially passed): basic knowledge available

Significance
& Advantages

The DTZ is more than just a language test—it is a key to social participation:

  • Proof of residence permit & settlement permit
  • Requirements for naturalization (with B1 level)
  • Better access to the labor market and education
  • Be able to act more independently and confidently in everyday life

Successful completion of the DTZ at B1 level shortens the naturalization process by up to one year—a significant advantage for many immigrants.

Registration & Procedure

  • 1. Participation in the integration course or direct registration for the DTZ exam on site at the office at Leipziger Str. 33, 01097 Dresden with ID and authorization certificate
  • 2. The exam date is organized by the course provider, and the exam usually takes place on site at Gerokstraße 20, 01307 Dresden.
  • 3. Exam results will be sent in writing approximately 4 weeks after the exam date, together with a certificate.

Prices

  • The DTZ test is usually free of charge if it is taken as part of an integration course.
  • Repeats are possible at your own expense. The exam fee is currently €180 and must be paid in cash or by card when registering.

The German test for immigrants is a decisive milestone on the path to successful integration in Germany. Not only does it provide proof of language proficiency for residence permits and naturalization, it also boosts self-confidence in everyday life and opens up new prospects for education and careers.

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