A1 German for the Spouse Visa (Ehegattennachzug)

The main exemption groups: spouses of EU/EEA citizens (EU free-movement law applies instead), nationals of countries whose citizens may enter Germany visa-free for long stays (including Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the UK, and the USA), spouses joining holders of certain residence titles such as the EU Blue Card, recognized inability to learn due to illness or disability, cases where the effort would be unreasonable (hardship), and visibly low integration need (e.g. university graduates with clear prospects). Whether an exemption applies is decided by the embassy — always confirm your specific case there.

The certificate itself does not expire, but embassies generally expect recent proof of your language level — commonly not older than about one year at the time of application. If your certificate is older, ask your embassy whether you must retake the exam before applying.

They are the same exam (Start Deutsch 1) under two brands. From abroad, the Goethe-Zertifikat is usually the practical choice — more test centers and the name embassies list. Inside Germany or where your embassy accepts telc, telc A1 is usually cheaper. See our full telc A1 vs Goethe A1 comparison.

Start Deutsch 1 has four short sections: Hören (listening, 15 questions), Lesen (reading, 15 questions), Schreiben (filling in a simple form and writing a ~30-word message), and Sprechen (a group speaking exam: introducing yourself, asking simple questions, making simple requests). You pass with 60 of 100 points overall — a weaker section can be balanced by a stronger one.

Typically 80–200 hours of study. With one focused hour per day, most beginners are exam-ready in two to four months. Prior knowledge of English or another Germanic language speeds this up.

Spouses of EU Blue Card holders are exempt from the language requirement, as are spouses joining holders of certain other residence titles (e.g. ICT card, researchers). The embassy checklist for your country states which titles qualify — bring proof of your spouse’s residence title to the appointment.

You can retake Start Deutsch 1 as often as needed — there is no waiting period, though you pay the fee again and must wait for the next available date. With 60 of 100 points to pass and no per-section minimum, targeted practice on your weakest skill usually closes the gap quickly.