If you’re planning a move to Switzerland or have already arrived, navigating the local immigration requirements can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to Swiss work and residence permits. Whether you’re applying for a B permit for the first time or preparing for a renewal, one important aspect to understand is the language requirement.
Non-EU citizens applying for a Swiss B permit in the German-speaking region must prove A1-level German proficiency in both speaking and writing. This requirement ensures basic communication skills for daily life and integration into Swiss society.
To meet this requirement, many expats enroll in an A1 German course for Swiss residence permit preparation. These courses are designed to teach the essential vocabulary and grammar needed to pass recognized exams like telc, Goethe, Fide, or ÖSD. Reaching A1 proficiency not only supports your permit application but also helps you settle into your new environment with confidence.
In this guide, we’ll explain who needs to meet the A1 German requirement, how long it typically takes to reach A1 level, what’s expected in the telc A1 exam, and how to choose the right course to prepare. If you’re looking for a faster path to approval, you’ll also learn how online and intensive course options can accelerate your progress.
How Can I Reach A1 German Skills as Quickly and Efficiently as Possible?
The best and fastest way to go about meeting your language requirement is to book yourself into a German language course! A qualified teacher is vital for a deeper and better understanding of grammar and language composition. A German beginner course will help you to understand the most important grammatical structures for A1 German.
How Long Will It Take Me to Reach A1 Skills in Both Speaking and Writing?
A regular language course usually takes place twice a week for 1.5 hours each lesson. If you decide to take a regular course, it will take you around four months to reach the A1 level, which is the current language requirement for a Swiss B permit.
If you wish to reach the A1 level more quickly, intensive courses can help you to speed up the language learning process. For example, our A1 online German course includes a private teacher, and you will be able to reach your A1 German level at your own pace and on your own time.
It is important to keep in mind that everybody’s language learning journey is different, and depending on your pace of learning and motivation, it might take you more or less time. The reason why we have created our online A1 German course is because we believe in catering to each learner’s unique journey and individual needs.
What Do I Have to Know at the A1 Level?
When reaching the A1 level, you will be able to use some basic grammatical constructions and communicate in simple ways. Some important vocabulary topics for A1 are:
- Introducing yourself and others
- Saying where you live
- Ordering food and drinks
- Having simple interactions when shopping
What Exams Can I Take to Officially Prove My A1 Level to the Swiss Authorities?
- telc test
- Goethe
- Fide
- ÖSD
What Is the Structure of the Telc A1 Exam?
What Is Expected of Me When Taking the Telc Test?
The best way to get a detailed insight into the telc test before you take your exam is to do a mock exam beforehand. This will give you a good understanding of how the test looks and exactly what is expected. Not only will this boost your confidence when taking the real test, but it will also accelerate your performance.
Download the telc A1 mock exam here and the related audio text here.
When and Where Can I Take the Telc Test?
There are many language schools in Zurich that are certified to administer telc exams. You can find the complete list here.
Can I Repeat the Telc Test?
Yes, the A1 exam can be repeated as many times as you wish.
Curious about what’s included in the Swiss Integration Exam? Check out my linked article for a full breakdown.
