What Is the New Rule?
The German Test for Immigrants (DTZ) has four parts: speaking, listening, reading and writing.
Under the new rules, you must meet these requirements to receive an overall B1 certificate:
Speaking: You must achieve B1.
Listening and reading: You must achieve at least A2.
Writing: You must achieve at least A2.
To get B1 overall: You must achieve B1 in speaking and in at least one written examination area (listening/reading or writing).
In simple words: You cannot get a B1 result if your writing or listening and reading skills fall below A2. You also need B1 in speaking and at least one of the two written examination areas.
Why Is Germany Changing the Rules?
The government says some people have obtained examination questions and answers illegally. The new rules aim to prevent cheating and ensure that certificates reflect real German language skills.
Does This Affect German Citizenship?
The DTZ is a language exam, not the citizenship knowledge test (Einbürgerungstest). A B1 language certificate may be required for naturalisation, but applicants should confirm which certificates their local authority accepts.
How Should You Prepare?
Practise all four skills: speaking, listening, reading and writing. Do not focus only on speaking. Use official practice tests and check the requirements with your examination provider before your appointment.
Important: These changes concern the DTZ language exam. They do not automatically mean that the separate citizenship knowledge test is becoming harder.