Moving to another country always means a lot of new things. New faces, a different language, unfamiliar rules, and an unfamiliar way of life. Everything around you works according to its own rules, and even a simple trip to the doctor or supermarket can be confusing.
This is well understood in Germany, which is why a support system has been created for those who are just starting out in a new country. Integration courses have become one of the most effective tools for adaptation.
This is not just language learning in the traditional sense. They are an opportunity to gradually integrate into German society and understand its culture, way of life, laws, and customs. Integration courses help overcome the barrier between “I don’t understand anything” and “I can already do things on my own.”
For many, this is the first step toward confidence, independence, and a new life. That is why these courses are a real bridge between past experiences and a new beginning in Germany.
A typical integration course has two main parts. The first is language training, and the second is orientation.
The language part lasts 600 hours and helps you raise your German to level B1. The program is designed for those who do not know the language at all or have only basic knowledge. Classes are held in groups, and teaching is practice-oriented — communication, reading announcements, understanding official documents, and conducting a dialogue with a doctor or landlord. Without language, adaptation is simply impossible.
The second part is orientation. This is 100 hours of familiarization with laws, human rights, women’s rights, the school system, social assistance, housing, and everyday situations. There is a lot of talk about culture, traditions, and general norms of life in German society. This part of the training gives you an understanding not only of what to do, but also why.
After moving to Germany, many people hear about integration courses, but do not always understand how to get into them, who is eligible, and where to start. In fact, the procedure is quite simple if you know who to contact. It is important to consider your residence status, funding options, and choose a convenient way to apply.
Below, we will look at all these points in turn so that you have no questions left.
Who is eligible for integration courses in Germany? First and foremost, foreigners with a residence permit, refugee status, temporary protection, or family reunification. In some cases, participation in the courses is mandatory, for example, if this is stated in your residence permit.
EU citizens can also apply for the courses if they are permanently resident in Germany. In individual cases, even stateless persons are allowed to participate if there is a serious need for adaptation.
Depending on your situation, there are several ways to apply for integration courses:
After submitting your documents, you will receive a referral for training and can choose a school or training center.
The training is partially funded by the state. In many cases, participants pay only a symbolic fee of around €2.29 per hour. If you are in a difficult financial situation or are unemployed, you can apply for full exemption from payment. The Jobcenter or social services will cover the costs in full.
So, the main thing is not to be afraid to ask and clarify. If you are not sure whether you are eligible for the courses, you can always contact your local migration center or the BAMF. In most cases, the decision will be in favor of the applicant if they really need help with integration.
Taking integration courses is a concrete step towards working in Germany. Without knowledge of the language, it is very difficult to find even temporary employment. A certificate of completion of the course and passing the exam is a plus for your resume.
In addition to language, the courses provide important information about employment rules, relations with employers, and legal nuances. This allows you to avoid many problems and not agree to questionable conditions.
Moreover, after the courses, you can take additional training, for example, specialized language courses for medical professionals, builders, logisticians, or IT specialists. This increases your chances of finding a job even faster.
There are several ways to find integration courses in Germany, depending on where you live and your situation.
They are most often run by adult education centers (Volkshochschule), private language schools, or special education centers. You can get information from your local migration center, Jobcenter, or social worker.
If you already have a referral for a course, they will help you choose the nearest educational institution that is licensed to offer integration courses.
The formats can vary – daytime, evening, intensive, or more relaxed. There are also groups for parents, women, young people, and people with basic literacy skills. Some institutions offer online learning. The main thing is to choose the option that is most comfortable for you.
When starting something new, it is always helpful to hear advice from people who have already been down that path. Integration courses are no exception. Those who have already completed their studies share simple but very practical observations that can make your experience easier and more enjoyable.
Here are a few tips they would give their past selves:
These simple tips will help you get the most out of the program and feel that you are not alone in this new reality. Integration is not just about language, but also about connections, understanding, and gradually becoming part of a new environment. And your experience will also become a source of support for someone else in the future.
Integration courses are about confidence. They are about not getting lost in everyday situations. They are about understanding how life in Germany works and how to make it your own. Some people go there for knowledge, some for peace of mind, and some for their first step toward working in Germany. And everyone finds something important for themselves.
