Learning German from Tunisia
French is not enough for Germany: almost every route needs German. It decides how fast every other step goes. Start before you have chosen a route.
Where
- Goethe-Institut Tunis gives language training and exams, also for GIZ projects (GTAI). goethe.de/ins/tn. Course and exam prices not checked.
- Programmes with language preparation: THAMM Plus, Triple Win.
- Private language schools: their own certificates do not count for the visa; only recognised exams do.
Which certificates count
German missions accept certificates of ALTE-standard tests such as Goethe, telc, ÖSD, TestDaF. Check the Embassy's leaflet for your route.
What the levels mean in law
The Residence Act defines A2 as "sufficient" (hinreichend, § 2 (10)) and B1 as "adequate" (ausreichend, § 2 (11) AufenthG): § 2 AufenthG.
Level by route
| Route | German |
|---|---|
| Degree taught in German | usually C1 (TestDaF, DSH) |
| Studienkolleg | depends on the Kolleg |
| Ausbildung | B1, unless the school tests the language or a preparatory course is attached (§ 16a (3)) |
| Opportunity Card | A1 German or B2 English |
| Skilled worker | often B1 to B2; Blue Card: none by law |
| Nurse | A2 for the § 16d measure as a rule; B1 in Triple Win; B2 for recognition |
| Spouse joining a partner | usually A1, with exceptions |
In Berlin: integration courses via BAMF and the Volkshochschulen. See After arrival.
A question this page does not answer? Contact us. Free orientation only, no legal advice for individual cases.