German A1 certificate for family reunification in Germany
In most spouse-reunification cases, the partner moving to Germany must show basic German at level A1 before the visa is issued. Certificates from Goethe (Start Deutsch 1), telc Deutsch A1 and ÖSD A1 are normally accepted. There are exceptions, so always check the website of the German embassy or consulate responsible for your case.
What is the A1 requirement for spouses?
When a spouse moves from abroad to join a partner in Germany, German law generally requires them to show, before travelling, that they can communicate in simple German — level A1 of the Common European Framework. The aim is to give the newcomer a first foundation for everyday life from day one.
A1 is the lowest CEFR level: introducing yourself, simple everyday questions, filling in a short form and understanding short, clear sentences. It does not require fluency, but it does need real preparation, especially if you have never used the Latin alphabet.
Accepted exams and how to book
Embassies usually accept certificates from recognised providers, most commonly Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Start Deutsch 1, telc Deutsch A1 and ÖSD Zertifikat A1. The exams cover reading, listening, writing and speaking; the speaking part is short and is usually taken with an examiner and other candidates.
You take the exam at an authorised test centre in your country or a neighbouring one. Dates and fees vary by centre and seats can fill weeks ahead, so book early. Before registering, check the responsible embassy's website to confirm that the certificate you plan to take is accepted.
Exceptions: when A1 may not be needed
In some cases the pre-entry language requirement does not apply — for example if you hold the nationality of a country whose citizens may enter Germany without a visa (such as Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, South Korea, New Zealand, the UK or the USA), if your partner in Germany holds an EU Blue Card, if your partner is a recognised refugee and the application is made within the legal time limit after recognition, or if a documented illness or disability prevents you from learning the language.
Rules and details change over time and by individual case, and listing an exception here does not mean it applies to you. The embassy makes the final decision, so check its official guidance for your situation before booking an exam.
How to prepare in a few weeks
Focus on what is actually tested: greetings and introductions, numbers, dates and times, family, work and housing, shopping and food, filling in a simple form, and writing a short message of three or four lines. Practise speaking out loud, because the speaking part is part of the exam.
Deutsch30 has an A0–A1 path with an Arabic interface, an AI conversation partner that talks with you and corrects your pronunciation, and listening and writing practice in the exam format. After you arrive in Germany you can continue towards B1 and the integration course.
Frequently asked questions
Is an A1 certificate always required for a spouse visa?
Not always. It is required in most cases, but there are exceptions based on nationality, your partner's status in Germany, or your health. Check the responsible embassy's website before registering.
Which A1 certificates do embassies accept?
Usually Goethe-Zertifikat A1, telc Deutsch A1 and ÖSD A1 from authorised centres. Confirm on the embassy website before booking an exam.
Do I need a higher level after arriving in Germany?
After arrival you normally join an integration course that ends with the DTZ exam at B1 — also the usual level for permanent residence and citizenship.