Integrationskurs — The Official German Course

What is an Integrationskurs?

The Integrationskurs is the most important German course for immigrants in Germany. It is organized by BAMF (Federal Office for Migration and Refugees) and consists of two parts:

1. Language course: 600 hours of instruction (Level A1 → B1)
2. Orientation course: 100 hours (Life in Germany — politics, history, rights)

Who must participate?

• Mandatory for new immigrants with residence permit and limited German skills (stated in the notice from the foreigners' authority)
• Voluntary for EU citizens, late resettlers, or people with better language skills
• Eligible are also recognized refugees and tolerated persons

How much does the course cost?

• Personal contribution: 2.29 € per hour of instruction (total approx. 1,602 €)
• Fee waiver possible for: ALG-II recipients, low income
• 50% reimbursement if you pass the test on your first attempt within 2 years!

How do you register?

Step 1: Get authorization

• From the foreigners' authority (automatically with residence permit)
• Or apply for admission at BAMF

Step 2: Find a course provider

• BAMF website: www.bamf.de → Integrationskurse → Course search
• Or locally: VHS (adult education center), private language schools

Step 3: Placement test

You will be assessed by the course provider — depending on your previous knowledge, you start in an appropriate module.

Language levels explained

Final Exam: DTZ

The Deutsch-Test für Zuwanderer (DTZ) tests:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking

Result: B1 (passed), A2 (partially passed), or below A2.

With B1, you receive the Integrationskurs Certificate — important for:
- Settlement permit
- Naturalization
- Better job opportunities

Tips for success

• Attend regularly — too many absences may result in loss of authorization
• Do homework and practice 30 minutes daily
• Use German media: news, podcasts, YouTube
• Speak German in everyday life — even if it's difficult!
• Use the hamboorg.city assistant for practice and questions