Mastering the local language is no longer a mere advantage. It’s a crucial step towards integrating into a new country. This trend is particularly strong in Europe, but it’s also gaining traction in other parts of the world.
Here’s a glimpse into how language proficiency paves the way for citizenship in some popular destinations:
Sweden
Sweden has recently made significant changes to its citizenship requirements, introducing additional criteria subject to parliamentary approval. This progressive move aligns with other European Union countries that mandate language exams as part of the naturalization process. Starting January 2025, individuals aged 16 to 66 must pass language and societal knowledge tests to become Swedish citizens.
The authorities in Sweden emphasize the importance of reading and listening skills in Swedish, as it is more challenging than it could appear. The required language levels are set at A2 for speaking and writing, followed by B1 for reading and listening. Once achieved, this proficiency level can be a source of great pride and accomplishment. It allows you to follow societal debates on TV or in newspapers, ensuring that you are well-informed and prepared for your new life as a Swedish citizen, as explained by Mari Andersson, the lead of the government inquiry.
Germany
One requirement for German citizenship is acquiring a B1 level on the DTZ language test, also known as the “German Test for Immigrants.” The test consists of a written part, which includes listening, reading, and writing, and lasts approximately 100 minutes, and an oral part where you have to speak for approximately 15 minutes.
Apart from the language test, there is also a general knowledge test featuring 33 multiple-choice questions from various topics, including “living in a democracy,” “history and responsibility,” and “people and society.” For this test, the passing score is 17 out of 33, with unlimited retakes.
However, there are also exceptions to this test: You do not have to take the test if you can provide a completion certificate from a German secondary school or comparable, graduated from a German higher education institution in law or social, political, or administrative sciences, are under 16 years old, or are unable to fulfill the civic knowledge requirement due to physical, intellectual or mental illness or disability.
Australia
To become a citizen of Australia and catch all kangaroos on the continent, you must undergo a written test and an interview if you are 18 to 59. People not in this age group can only pass through interviews.
So, what does the test entail? The assessment covers a comprehensive understanding of the English language and what it means to be Australian, followed by some Australian knowledge and its values of freedom, respect, and equality. It consists of 20 multiple-choice questions, five of which are directly related to Australia.
The trick is that all five questions regarding Australia should be correct to pass the test, other questions require only a 75% compilation score. In the case of a failure, you can retake the test up to 3 times.
The Department of Home Affairs also provides resources to help prepare for the test, including a practice test and a resource book titled ‘Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond.’ This book is your only resource to prepare for the test. There is no extra cost to sit the citizenship test. The citizenship application fee that you paid includes the test. There are also accessible online practice tests available that provide immediate feedback.
Cyprus
In Cyprus, one of the requirements for citizenship is knowledge of Greek on Level B1, which means you can handle everyday communication situations independently. This proficiency is verified through the Examinations for the Verification of the Greek Language conducted via the Ministry of Education.
In addition to the language requirement, applicants must demonstrate a sufficient understanding of the socio-political realities in the Republic. This is assessed through relevant examinations conducted by the Ministry of Education, and applicants must score at least 60%.
The law also states that highly skilled workers can apply for citizenship if they pass a Greek language test at level B1 (moderate knowledge) if they have worked in the country for four years or at the lower level A2 (basic knowledge) if they have worked in the country for five years. So, if you know the language better, you can use “fast track” in the naturalization process. LiveXP features a diverse selection of tutors who specialize in preparing students for the Greek exam necessary for Cyprus citizenship.
South Korea
The South Korean passport, currently ranked 2nd globally on the Henley Passport Index, is one of the top 5 passports in the world. It provides its holders with visa-free access to 174 countries, making it a highly desirable document. However, obtaining South Korean citizenship requires passing a language test known as KINAT.
The KINAT (Korea Immigration and Naturalization Aptitude Test) is designed for those who finish the level 5 advanced course (100 hours). The exam comprehensively tests the applicant’s basic and advanced Korean language skills and understanding of Korean society. The assessment includes various parts — multiple-choice questions, a written part, and an oral part — all of which should be completed within an hour. The passing score is 60 correct answers out of 100.
Interestingly, the test goes beyond language knowledge. Applicants should be prepared to answer questions about the social system, society and culture, customs, and the country’s history.
Exemptions from taking the test are available for those under 18, over 60, or who have completed the Social Integration Program, a free education program developed to help immigrants learn the Korean language and acquire basic knowledge and information about life in Korea.
Turkey
To become citizens of Turkey, applicants need to pass the Turkish Language Proficiency Test (TMER), which reveals their understanding of the Turkish language, its history, and culture. The TMER measures the language proficiency of individuals learning Turkish as a foreign language.
The exam consists of five stages: Reading Skills, Listening Skills, General Turkish Knowledge, Writing (Composition), and Speaking. Each stage carries 20 points, making the total score 100. The overall duration of the exam is 160 minutes. The passing score varies depending on the level of proficiency. For example, a score of 75–84 indicates a B2 level of proficiency, which is considered adequate.
Applicants for Turkish citizenship must be 18 or over. They must have resided in Turkey with a valid residence permit for at least five years. They should be in good health and have good character. They must possess the ability to speak Turkish. They should be a tax resident with sufficient funds to support themselves and their family members.
Vietnam
While Vietnam has become a hotspot destination for digital nomads, with the number ballooning to over 35 million, 49% of whom are from the United States, obtaining citizenship there is more challenging than it might seem at first glance.
In a nutshell, applicants must speak enough Vietnamese to integrate into Vietnamese society. This language requirement ensures that individuals seeking citizenship can communicate effectively and fosters a sense of belonging and connection with the local community. The level of Vietnamese proficiency needs to be specified in the law, but applicants may be required to pass a language test to demonstrate their abilities. Moreover, applicants must have Vietnamese names clearly stated when applying for citizenship.
Regardless of specific citizenship requirements, language learning offers numerous benefits for those considering a move abroad. Proficiency in the local language not only fosters deeper cultural understanding and facilitates integration into the community but also broadens your horizons and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and society, enhancing your overall experience and making your transition smoother and more rewarding.
LiveXP offers tutors for over 30 languages, ready to assist you in preparing for language exams or any other language-related goals.
