For a foreign national to successfully live and work in Switzerland, it’s essential that they become integrated into their local community by learning the local language and becoming familiar with the Swiss culture and social norms. A Swiss integration language course helps newcomers gain this understanding.
There are twenty-six cantons in Switzerland. Where you live will determine if you should take an A1 German integration course or one in French or Italian.
Why Do I Need to Integrate?
The Swiss take language integration requirements for Swiss citizenship and integration very seriously because they want those who come to their country to become active participants in their society. Cantons may require immigrants and their family members to sign agreements that mandate that they learn the local language and follow other steps to become fully integrated.
Language integration requirements also vary depending on the type of permit, length of stay, and the applicant’s nationality. The State Secretariat of Migration (SEM), the organization responsible for processing residency and visa applications, publishes a list of the types of language certifications it accepts.
Language Integration Courses Explained
In 2007, the Swiss government developed a conceptual framework for the linguistic integration of migrants called ‘Français, Italiano, Deutsch en Switzerland,’ commonly referred to as ‘FIDE.’ The purpose of FIDE is to ensure that individuals who come to Switzerland speaking another language can integrate into their communities.
The FIDE approach is based on four pillars:
- Lessons revolve around real-life scenarios.
- Diverse language teachers hold a certificate that attests to their professional, methodical, and social competences in integration.
- Courses promote linguistic integration in an efficient, holistic, and sustainable manner.
- A FIDE language passport issued by SEM will indicate the level reached by the applicant in written and oral competency in German, French, and/or Italian. The passport is an officially recognized document needed for naturalization, residency, and settlement permits.
The goal of an integration language course is to equip newcomers to Switzerland with the skills necessary for everyday life, including how to use public transportation, access public services, navigate the complexities of work and social environments, find a place to live, shop, and obtain medical care, among other situations.
The language component of an integration course focuses on speaking, listening, reading, and writing the language spoken in the canton where the applicant lives, which could be German, French, or Italian. How well you absorb this information will impact how well you will understand what is tested in the Swiss integration exam. Courses may also cover the political system, history, culture, customs, social norms, and other aspects of life in Switzerland.
Why Integration Is So Important
When someone is well-integrated, it is easier for them to develop personal and professional relationships and form close ties to their communities. This, in turn, will enhance their ability to find meaningful work, support themselves, contribute to the local economy, and participate in civic activities.
The Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration, administered by the SEM, defines the requirements for visas and residency permits, as well as the rights and responsibilities of foreign nationals in Switzerland, and the conditions foreigners must meet to stay in the country. Included in the Act is the requirement that newcomers demonstrate their understanding of a Swiss language, culture, and norms before they can receive a residency permit.
The Act also requires foreign nationals seeking to reside in Switzerland to participate in language courses and orientation programs, and provides support for newcomers, such as counseling and social services.
Where to Find Language and Integration Courses
In Switzerland, language and integration courses are often offered at adult education programs, learning centers operated by cantons, and private language schools like German Academy Zurich.
The German Academy Zurich offers a unique language learning approach that combines individual instruction with self-guided lessons on our AI-powered platform. This program is designed to make you a proficient user of the German language as quickly and efficiently as possible!
