What is an integration course?
The integration course is an important part of German integration policy and aims to help migrants settle into German society and daily life. It not only offers language courses, but also imparts knowledge about the German legal system, culture and history.
Definition and aim of the integration course
An integration course in accordance with § 43 AufenthG is an offer for immigrants to integrate linguistically and culturally in Germany. The course is aimed at people who have a residence permit or, under certain circumstances, people who are dependent on a Tolerance permit in Germany. The main aim is to help you to navigate and act independently in everyday life without having to rely on outside help.
The integration course consists of several modules that cover all important aspects of daily life in Germany. This includes the language as well as the basic social and legal framework.
Difference between integration course and language course
A language course focuses primarily on learning the German language, whereas an integration course goes far beyond this. In addition to language skills, essential cultural and social topics are also taught. The language course is part of the integration course, but the so-called orientation course complements the program to provide you with comprehensive knowledge that is important for life in Germany.
Contents of the integration course: Language and orientation courses
The integration course consists of a language course and an orientation course. In other words, two main parts. In the language course, you will learn German up to level B1, which will enable you to communicate confidently in everyday life.
The orientation course covers topics such as the German legal system, the political system and cultural values in Germany. These topics will help you not only to master the language, but also to better understand the social structures.
Requirements for participation in the integration course
In order to take part in an integration course, certain requirements must be met. Eligibility for an integration course depends on various factors, such as your residence status or your personal situation in Germany. However, even if you do not have a fixed entitlement, you can register for a course voluntarily.
Entitlement to participation
According to § 44 AufenthG, you are generally entitled to attend an integration course if you have been granted a residence permit. This applies to people who are living in Germany for family, professional or humanitarian reasons. If you have been in the country for over a year or have a residence permit for at least one year, you can usually also take part.
Here are some other criteria that will ensure your claim:
- You have a residence permit for the purpose of gainful employment(§ 18 AufenthG) or family reunification (e.g. § 29 AufenthG).
- You have a Residence permit on humanitarian grounds(refugee status or subsidiary protection, or Section 23 AufenthG) or as a long-term resident(Section 38a AufenthG).
- You have a Tolerance permit or residence permit, but can still participate voluntarily.
Participation without entitlement: Application for admission to the BAMF
Even if you are not legally entitled to an integration course, you can apply to the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) for admission. In such cases, your participation will be made dependent on the availability of free course places. Important to know: Even German nationals who do not have sufficient language skills can submit an application under certain circumstances.
If you have financial difficulties, it is also possible to apply for a cost exemption. This may be particularly relevant if you receive benefits under the German Social Security Code.
Obligation to participate
In some cases, you may even be obliged to attend an integration course. This obligation under § 44a AufenthG is usually imposed by the Foreigners' office or the Jobcenter if it is determined that you need to improve your German language skills or ability to integrate.
The obligation to participate applies to the following groups, among others:
- People who cannot easily communicate in German.
- Benefit recipients under the German Social Security Code who are requested by the Jobcenter.
- Persons who are classified by Foreigners' office as "in need of integration".
- Persons who receive a Residence permit for the first time in accordance with §23 Para. 2, §28 Para. 1, §30 or §36a Para. 1 AufenthG.
Advantages of the integration course
Participating in integration courses offers you numerous benefits that go far beyond learning the language. The course will help you to integrate successfully in Germany and improve your chances in everyday life, at work and at a possible Naturalization .
Improving language skills
Language lessons are a central component of the integration courses. Here you will learn the German language level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, which will enable you to master everyday situations with confidence. With the certificate you will:
- Facilitating communication in everyday life
- Being able to deal with the authorities independently
- Establish social contacts more easily
Achieving B1 level is also an important prerequisite for many official processes, such as the Naturalization or the permanent residence permit.
Promoting integration into everyday life
In addition to the language, you will learn about the German legal system, culture and history in the orientation course.
This not only gives you a deeper insight into society, but also practical knowledge for everyday life, such as:
- Rights and obligations in Germany
- Functioning of the political system
- Importance of social values
This information will help you to feel more secure in Germany and to find your way around better. You can actively participate in social life and act independently in your new environment.
Support with professional integration
The integration course can also be a decisive step for your professional future in Germany. With better language skills and a clear understanding of the working culture, your chances on the job market will improve considerably.
You can:
- Participate successfully in job interviews
- Connect job-specific language courses
- Move more confidently in your job
Many employers require a basic knowledge of German in order to be able to work effectively in a team and understand the requirements of the job. The integration course therefore opens many doors for your professional development.
Preparation for the naturalization test
If you are seeking German citizenship, the integration course will prepare you optimally for the naturalization test.
In the orientation course you will learn everything you need to know about:
- The German legal system
- The political system and culture
- Important historical events
How do I apply for the integration course at the BAMF?
Applying for an integration course at the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) is a relatively simple process, but it does require a few important steps. With the right preparation and the necessary documents, you can ensure that your application is processed smoothly. Here you can find out how to proceed.
Step-by-step guide to the application
The application for participation in the integration course involves several steps. Here is a simple guide on how to proceed:
- Check your entitlement: Check whether you are entitled to the course on the basis of your residence permit or your personal situation. If you are not entitled, you can still apply for admission.
- Fill in the application form: Download the official BAMF application form or request it by post. The form is easy to fill out and requires basic information about yourself and your residence status.
- Compile documents: Make sure you have all the necessary documents (see below) ready.
- Submitting the application: Send the completed application together with the documents to the BAMF. This can be done either online or by post.
- Wait for confirmation: After processing, you will receive confirmation of your participation or an invitation to the next available course. If your application for cost exemption is approved, this will also be noted in the confirmation.
Application for exemption from costs
If you need financial support, you can also apply for cost exemption in addition to applying for participation. This is particularly important if you receive social benefits or are unable to pay the course fees for financial reasons.
To apply for cost exemption, you should:
- Fill in the relevant forms at the BAMF.
- Enclose proof of your receipt of benefits or financial situation (e.g. notification of unemployment benefit II or other social benefits).
- Submit the application together with the participation form.
A cost exemption can provide you with considerable financial relief and make it easier for you to access the integration course.
Documents required for the application
To apply for admission to the integration course, you will need various documents to confirm your eligibility requirements. These include
- Copy of your residence permit or a corresponding certificate of toleration. And, if applicable, the certificate of eligibility/obligation to attend an integration course, which you will receive from Foreigners' office .
- Proof that you are receiving benefits if you are applying for cost exemption (e.g. notification of unemployment benefit II).
- Passport photo for your participant card, which you will need during the course.
- BAMF registration form, fully completed and signed.
Costs and exemption from costs
Taking part in an integration course is a valuable investment in your future in Germany. However, there is the possibility of a cost exemption, especially for people who are financially restricted. Here you can find out what costs you will incur and under what conditions you can apply for an exemption.
Costs of the integration course
In principle, there are fees for participation and costs for the integration course. These are usually
- 1.95 per lesson, with the entire course consisting of 700 to 900 lessons. This means that the course can cost several hundred euros in total, depending on the number of lessons required.
- However, the costs may increase if you require additional language modules or tutoring.
For many participants, these costs are a challenge. Therefore, there are various financial support programs to ease the burden.
Requirements for the assumption of costs
Not everyone has to pay the full course fees themselves. There are several conditions under which you can apply for a cost exemption or reduction:
- Recipients of social benefits: If you receive unemployment benefit II, social welfare or other state benefits, you are generally entitled to full exemption from the costs.
- Low earners: If you work but only have a low income, you can also apply for a cost reduction. Your income will be checked to determine whether you can receive support.
- Asylum seekers and refugees: Certain groups of asylum seekers and refugees are often automatically entitled to a cost exemption.
The exact requirements are checked in the application. It is worth making use of these options to reduce the financial burden.
How do I apply for cost exemption?
Applying for cost exemption is a relatively simple process. You should follow the steps below:
- Fill out the form: Fill out the application form for cost exemption, which you can obtain from the BAMF or your course provider.
- Enclose supporting documents: Enclose with the application all relevant proof that you are financially needy (e.g. notification of unemployment benefit II or social assistance).
- Submit application: Submit the application either together with your registration for the course or separately if you have already started the course.
- Wait for confirmation: Once your documents have been checked, you will receive confirmation of cost exemption so that you can attend the course without any financial burden.
Do you have any questions?
Conclusion on the integration course
As you can see, the integration course is an important support for migrants to gain a foothold in Germany linguistically, culturally and socially. Here we have once again summarized the important points of the integration course and looked into the future of the integration course.
Integration course in a nutshell
- Compulsory attendance: In certain cases, you are legally obliged to attend the integration course, for example if your German language skills are not yet sufficient or if you receive social benefits.
- Voluntary participation: You can also attend the course without being legally obliged to do so by submitting an application for admission to the BAMF - often with the possibility of cost exemption.
- Language skills and integration: The course helps you to learn German at level B1 and provides you with important knowledge about German law, culture and social life.
Future of the integration course
With the increasing importance of integration in Germany, the integration course is likely to be further developed and optimized. In future, the conditions for participation could be further simplified and access made more flexible to enable even more people to join.
FAQ - The most frequently asked questions about the integration course
An integration course teaches language skills (up to B1) and knowledge about German society, culture and the legal system.
The course comprises 700 to 900 hours of instruction: 600 hours of language course and 100 hours of orientation course.
Persons with a residence permit, Tolerance permit or social benefits are entitled to an integration course.
A retake is only possible in the event of failure or special circumstances.
No, but the course prepares you for the naturalization test.
The language course is part of the integration course. The integration course also includes the orientation course.
No, B1 is the language level you should reach in the integration course.
You can apply for admission to the BAMF or use private language courses and online offers.
