Germany and Austria tighten integration and language requirements

Germany and Austria are implementing stricter measures regarding immigrant integration and language proficiency.

The German Ministry of the Interior has announced tougher criteria for the German Language Test (DTZ), which is a prerequisite for permanent residency and citizenship. Following reports of fraud where candidates illegally accessed exam questions online or bypassed the written portion of the test, new rules require candidates to demonstrate proficiency in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. No single section may fall below the A2 level.

In Austria, the government is proposing a new integration law aimed at starting language and social values training immediately upon registration in the basic care system. The proposed framework includes individual integration plans focusing on language, social values, and labor market participation. Failure to comply with these obligations could result in significant sanctions, including reduced or terminated social assistance and fines ranging from 250 to 5,000 euros, or even prison sentences in extreme cases.