German course for a visa: which certificate the embassy asks for

For most German visas, German is not a formality but a condition. Which proof is enough depends on the visa type — and the embassy decides that, not the language school. This article explains what is usually required and which documents you receive from us.

First and most important: the binding answer always comes from the German mission responsible for your country. Requirements differ by country and they change. Check your embassy’s own website before booking a course.

The most common cases

Language course visa (§ 16f AufenthG)

For an intensive course in Germany. Usually required: a course of at least 18 teaching hours per week, a confirmation of enrolment from the school, proof that the course fee has been paid or committed, and proof that your living costs are covered. Prior knowledge from A1 upward is often expected.

Spouse and family reunification

As a rule A1, evidenced by a recognised certificate. Exceptions exist — for certain nationalities, or where attending a course is demonstrably impossible.

Vocational training and recognition of qualifications

Usually B1 to B2. In nursing and healthcare there is often an additional specialist language exam beyond general B2.

Which certificates are recognised?

Examinations from providers following the ALTE standard — chiefly telc, the Goethe-Institut, ÖSD and TestDaF. A school’s own attendance confirmation is not proof of language ability: it shows you were there, not what you can do. For a visa you need the examination certificate.

What you get from us

• a confirmation of enrolment stating course, level, dates and hours per week — in the form missions expect
• an invoice for the course fee
• on request, confirmation that payment has been received
• where needed, a course description to submit to the authorities

Tell us when you enrol that you need documents for a visa — our enrolment form asks this directly, so the paperwork is issued correctly the first time and you do not have to write to us twice.

If the visa is refused

It happens, and it is rarely because of the language course. Talk to us before the course starts — write or call. It is almost always possible to move your place to a later date. Our cancellation terms are set out in the AGB.