Italian A2 for the long-term residence permit

The Italian language test for the EU long-term residence permit is level A2: what it checks, the four skills, how to find your level and how to prepare with practice exams and lessons.

To apply for the EU long-term residence permit in Italy you have to show that you know Italian at level A2 of the European framework. Unlike Germany or the Netherlands, Italy does not have a public bank of civics questions for this step; what is tested is your language. A2 means you understand and use familiar everyday expressions: introducing yourself, talking about your family, work and daily routine, reading a short notice or form and writing a short, simple message. You prove it with a test or a certificate recognised by the authorities, so check the Ministry of the Interior for the current list and the procedure for your case.

What you'll learn

What an A2 task looks like

Writing: you read “Ti invito alla mia festa sabato alle otto” and reply in two or three simple sentences to say yes, thank the person and ask what to bring.

Speaking: introduce yourself, say where you live, where you work and what you do on weekends.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a civics test too?

Not with a public question bank. For the integration agreement there is a civic training session; the Italian culture guide on Asagno covers the same ground.

How long does it take to reach A2?

It depends on where you start and how often you practise. A regular daily routine of lessons and speaking practice is what moves the level.

See the Italian practice exams