What German language level is required for Austrian citizenship?

This is a question for which a variety of different answers seem to be floating about.

The short answer is:

• Level B1 with 10 years of continuous residency; but

• Level B2 with 6 years of residency.

But there are exceptions to this, such as for children and those who have studied in Austria.

For more information about citizenship in general and the language requirement in particular, see: https://www.staatsbuergerschaft.gv.at/index.php

CEFR European Language Framework

In Europe, foreign language skills are measured using the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). The CEFR is a table on which you can evaluate your language skills for any foreign language. The levels are:

• A: Basic user, subdivided into the lower A1 and higher A2 levels. With level A2 you could survive on holiday, ordering food, asking for directions, holding short, basic conversations on very basic topics.

• B: Independent user, subdivided into the lower B1 and higher B2 levels. With level B2 your language skills are sufficient to do many jobs

• C: Proficient user, subdivided into the lower C1 and higher C2 levels. At C1 level you could work effectively, lead meetings, negotiate and more. C1 level is sufficient to study to a high level too. At C2 level your language skills are often better than most native speakers!

You can self-assess your CEFR level for any language you speak (other than a mother tongue) using this self-assessment grid: https://rm.coe.int/CoERMPublicCommonSearchServices/DisplayDCTMContent?documentId=090000168045bb52