Levels & permits
Which fide level do I need for a C permit or Swiss citizenship?
The fide test certifies your level separately for speaking and writing: A1, A2 or B1. The level you need depends on your procedure.
| Procedure | Spoken | Written |
|---|---|---|
| Family reunification (B permit) | A1 | not required |
| C permit (settlement permit) | A2 | A1 |
| Early C permit | B1 | A1 |
| Swiss citizenship | B1 | A2 |
These are the federal minimums. Cantons can ask for more; what your authority tells you is what counts.
Swiss citizenship
For ordinary naturalisation the federal minimum is B1 spoken and A2 written in a national language (Swiss Citizenship Ordinance, art. 6). Many cantons use this standard, some ask for more. Check with your municipality before you register.
C permit
For the ordinary settlement permit you need A2 spoken and A1 written in the national language where you live. For an early C permit you need B1 spoken and A1 written.
Family reunification
For a residence permit through family reunification, A1 spoken is usually enough – or registering for a language course. Cantonal rules can differ.
How do I take the right level?
You don’t register for a level. In the oral part everyone starts with the A2 tasks; the examiners then recommend continuing at A1 or B1, and you decide. If you don’t reach the higher level, the lower one is certified if you reach it.
Are other certificates accepted?
Yes. Besides the fide test, the SEM recognises other language certificates that meet certain quality standards, for example telc, Goethe or DELF. The current list is on the SEM website.
Practise for your level
As of November 2026. Sources: fide-service.ch and federal and cantonal information sheets. What your authority tells you is what counts. fide-service.ch