Einbürgerungstest Results: Waiting Time and Certificate
Your test centre does not mark your paper — the BAMF evaluates centrally. That is why results take weeks, and the VHS cannot tell you anything on exam day.
Key takeaways
- Evaluation by the BAMF — not by the local test centre.
- Typical wait: 6 to 12 weeks; varies by region and season.
- Certificate by post — “Zertifikat Einbürgerungstest” or LiD certificate.
- Processing status can be checked on the BAMF website.
- After 8 weeks with no news: contact your BAMF regional office in writing.
What happens after the test?
After the exam, the test centre sends your answer sheet to the BAMF. There it is marked centrally to see whether you answered at least 17 of 33 questions correctly. The test centre only learns the result when the BAMF releases it.
On exam day you receive no immediate result — unlike online practice tools. Waiting is normal.
How long does it take?
| Phase | Duration |
|---|---|
| BAMF evaluation | 6–12 weeks (sometimes longer) |
| Delivery by post | a few days after release |
| Total until certificate | often 2–3 months |
Check processing status
The BAMF publishes evaluation progress on its website. You can see for which exam dates results are already available.
Some test centres also list from which exam date results can be collected — but that always depends on BAMF release.
The certificate
If you pass, you receive the “Zertifikat Einbürgerungstest” (or the LiD certificate if you took the test as part of an integration course). Submit this to your naturalization authority as proof of civic knowledge.
If you chose postal delivery, the certificate arrives by mail. Some centres offer collection — you must appear within a deadline (often 6 weeks) or the result goes back to the BAMF.
No result — what to do?
- Check processing status on bamf.de.
- Verify your postal address on file is correct.
- After 8 weeks with no news: write to the responsible BAMF regional office (not the VHS).
- Include your ID number and exam date.
- If the certificate is lost: request a duplicate from the BAMF.
Next step: naturalization application
While waiting for the certificate, gather other documents: B1 language proof, payslips, rental contract, passport. That saves time later.
Frequently asked questions
Can the VHS tell me my result?
No. The test centre has no influence on BAMF processing and cannot speed it up. After a reasonable wait, contact the BAMF.
Does the certificate expire?
The certificate is proof of civic knowledge with no fixed expiry in the EinbTestV. Your naturalization office may ask whether it is still current in long procedures — worth checking if your case takes years.
What if I fail?
You receive a result notice (below 17 marks). You can re-register at any time — €25 each attempt. Details: Failed — retaking the test.
Related guides
- Register for the Einbürgerungstest: Dates, Costs and Process
- Failed the Einbürgerungstest — What Now?
- Einbürgerungstest vs. Leben in Deutschland: What Is the Difference?
Passbereit is a free, independent study aid. It is not affiliated with the BAMF or with any test centre, and practice results carry no legal weight. The official BAMF question catalog is always the authoritative source. FAQ · Impressum · Datenschutz