German language knowledge for Residence Permit C

Who requires evidence of German language knowledge?

Third country nationals and EU-/EFTA-citizens must demonstrate a specific level of German to obtain a C Permit.

Citizens of the following countries are excluded from this requirement: A, B, D, DK, F, GR, I, FL, NL, P, SP as are the spouses of Swiss citizens and existing C permit holders (married for minimum 5 years).

Foreign citizens who would like to obtain Swiss citizenship in Canton Zug/Canton Zurich.

What are the required language levels?

Zug
Due to statutory requirements level A2 is required for verbal ability (listening and speaking) and level A1 for written ability (reading and writing). Exceptions can be made for people unable to achieve these requirements through no fault of their own.

Zurich
Due to statutory requirements level A2 is required for verbal and written ability.

What does the acquisition of a language certificate mean for the application for a C Permit?

The acquisition of a language certificate is not the only requirement to obtain a C Permit. Additionally important aspects include the level of integration, criminal record, debts, unemployment and receipt of social security funds.
No one has to leave Switzerland due to insufficient German language ability.

If the required language level of A1/A2 not achieved, the B Permit will be extended.

Links

zg.ch/behoerden/sicherheitsdirektion/amt-fur-migration/einreise-aufenthalt
fmzug.ch
expatica.com
ma.zh.ch/internet/sicherheitsdirektion/migrationsamt