Differences between the below mentioned certificates in Germany

Question

Hello Wefugees,

I am here again asking to know the difference between the following certificates.
1) Integrationskurs certificate
2) Orientierungskurs certificate
3) Leben in Deutschland certificate
4) Einbürgerungstest certificate

I'm asking this question because I recently applied for permanent residence permit in Mannheim, but I have been asked to bring either Leben in Deutschland certificate or orientierungskurs certificate.
For reference I already have B2 German language certificate and according to my previous Ausländerbehörde therefore was no need for me to do the Integrationskurs, because during the B2 course we also learned about the legal and political systems in Germany.
I wonder what's exactly orientierungskurs and how do I get one, because I have tried to register for the Leben in Deutschland course but unfortunately there's no available place in Mannheim for the next 3 months. I have until 31.01.2025 to bring the Leben in Deutschland certificate or orientierungskurs certificate.

Please I need your advice.

Many thanks

Answer 1

Hello and welcome back at Wefugees!

The "Orientierungskurs" is part of the broader integration course and focuses on providing knowledge about German  society, including its legal system, culture, and values.

The "Einbürgerungstest" (exam for the naturalization) contains almost the same questions as the so-called "Leben in Deutschland" exam (which is the most common certificate to prove the required "basic knowledge of the legal and social system and living conditions in Germany"). Therefore, the immigration office should accept this as well. However, I learned about some cases in which the civil servants at the immigration office were persistently asking for the "Leben in Deutschland" test. I recommend to give it a try nevertheless if you can manage to get an appointment for this earlier.

Otherwise you may explain to the immigration office that you can not get any appointment within their deadline (with presenting your booked appointment for the later date) and ask for an extension. In case you face difficulties, I recommend to get support at a migration counselling office.

I hope this helps and good luck!

Regards,

Meike

Comments

Thank you Meike for your detailed explanation.
However  I would highly appreciate it from you if you can recommend some counseling centers in Mannheim where I can get support in migration field.

Thanks.