German A1 for a spouse visa: a free guide in Urdu
Applying to join your husband or wife in Germany? Here is what you need to know about the A1 German requirement, and a free step-by-step guide in Urdu to help you prepare.
Written by Farwa. Last reviewed .
Do spouses need A1 German for a German visa?
In most cases, yes. Spouses joining a partner in Germany must usually show basic German at A1 level. The German Embassy in Pakistan currently accepts A1 certificates from the Goethe-Institut, ÖSD, telc and TestDaF, and the certificate must be no older than one year when you apply.
Who does not need an A1 certificate?
Some spouses are exempt, for example spouses of EU Blue Card holders and of non-German EU citizens. The exemptions depend on your partner's residence permit, so check the embassy's family reunion page for your exact case.
What is the Goethe-Zertifikat A1?
The Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Start Deutsch 1 is the Goethe-Institut's beginner German exam. It shows you can understand and use simple everyday expressions, introduce yourself and answer basic questions. In Pakistan it is one of the A1 certificates accepted for a spouse visa.
What does the Goethe A1 exam test?
The Goethe-Zertifikat A1 (Start Deutsch 1) has four parts: about 65 minutes of written papers and a 15-minute speaking test in a small group.
Hörenabout 20 min
Listening
Short announcements, phone messages and everyday conversations.
Lesenabout 25 min
Reading
Short notes, adverts, signs and simple emails.
Schreibenabout 20 min
Writing
Fill in a form and write a short message.
Sprechenabout 15 min
Speaking
Introduce yourself, ask and answer questions, make requests, in a small group.
Ready to prepare properly? See the A1 Goethe exam prep course.
Sources: German Embassy Islamabad: family reunion visa; Goethe-Institut: Goethe-Zertifikat A1 (Start Deutsch 1); Goethe-Institut Pakistan. Visa rules change, so always check the embassy's page before you apply.