It appears that further cuts to integration courses are planned
According to various media reports—including the Westdeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung —the federal government is considering additional restrictions on integration courses. Among other things, changes to the language proficiency requirements and the structure of the courses are being discussed.
One point under discussion is the language proficiency target. For participants with lower proficiency levels, the current target could be lowered from B1 to A2. However, providers of integration courses have expressed concern that this could reduce participants’ chances on the job market, as many professions require German language skills at the B1 level.
In addition, further changes are reportedly in the works. There is talk of digital self-study periods —that is, times when participants are expected to learn independently online without a teacher. The WAZ also reports that the class hours for literacy courses could be reduced.
In addition, the final “Life in Germany” test is being called into question. In this test, participants demonstrate their knowledge of German society, politics, and values. Passing an integration test can be important later on, for example for a Settlement permit or Naturalization.
Critics view these proposals as a weakening of the existing system. In particular, the orientation course, in which immigrants learn about Germany’s social and legal systems, could be scaled back.
Restrictions have not yet been officially confirmed
According to various media reports, these measures are currently being discussed by a commission tasked with reviewing the integration courses. However, the measures have not yet been officially decided or confirmed.
This means that the federal government is apparently considering further changes to integration courses. However, it is still unclear whether these changes will actually be implemented, and if so, in what form.
Looking Back: No Voluntary Integration Courses in 2026
Early this year, the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) confirmed that, for the time being, no voluntary participation in integration courses will be approved in 2026.
This measure affects immigrants who are not legally entitled to take a course. This includes:
- Asylum seekers in the current procedure
- Individuals with a Tolerance permit
- Refugees from Ukraine with temporary protection (Section 24 of the Residence Act)
- Persons holding a humanitarian residence permit under Section 25(5) of the Residence Act
- EU citizens
Until now, these groups have often been able to participate in courses on a voluntary basis, provided there were openings. This is no longer possible, as such applications are no longer being approved. Participation is now only possible if a government agency requires it or if the course is paid for out of pocket.
The federal government cites cost-cutting measures as the main reason for the restrictions. The number of participants in the voluntary courses has risen sharply in recent years, as have the costs. The measure is intended to ensure more effective management of available funds.
It is important to note that individuals who are legally entitled to integration courses are not affected by this measure. This includes recognized refugees, beneficiaries of subsidiary protection, and individuals with residence permits for employment purposes. Integration courses will continue to be available for these groups.
More and more politicians are criticizing restrictions on integration
There is growing opposition to the planned and already implemented restrictions. The integration ministers of the federal states spoke out particularly strongly at a conference a few days ago.
They are calling on the federal government to lift restrictions on language and integration courses and to ensure reliable funding. Language is the key to integration, employment, and social participation, according to the state ministers.
Organizations and associations are also warning of the consequences. They argue that cutting funding for integration courses will lead to higher costs in the long run —for example, due to reduced opportunities in the job market. They say that strong language skills are essential for immigrants to be able to work and support themselves.
In addition, public pressure is mounting: a petition opposing cuts to language and integration courses has already been signed by more than 140,000 people.
It remains to be seen how the situation will develop and whether further restrictions will be imposed. One thing is clear, however: the debate over the future of integration courses will continue to be a topic of discussion in Germany in the coming weeks and months.
