· 6 min read
Sproochentest: Luxembourgish for Nationality
By Language Lab editorial team
The Sproochentest for Luxembourg nationality: speaking at A2 (10 minutes), listening at B1, the 50% rule that lets listening rescue speaking, and registration.
To acquire Luxembourg nationality you must pass the Sproochentest, the Luxembourgish language test run by the Institut National des Langues (INLL). It has two parts. Speaking is set at CEFR A2: a 10-minute test, made of an interview on one of two topics offered by the examiner and a description of one of three visual prompts. Listening is set at B1: three recordings, a radio message, an everyday conversation and an exchange or presentation on a specific topic, answered on a questionnaire. You need at least 50% in speaking; a lower speaking score can be offset by listening, in which case you pass if the average of both scores is at least 50%. You can sit the test as many times as you like, registering again once the previous result is known. Registration is through the MyINL portal.
The two parts
| Part | Level | Format | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speaking | A2 | Interview on one of two topics, then describing one of three visual prompts | 10 minutes (2 x 5) |
| Listening | B1 | Three texts: a radio message, a conversation on an everyday topic, an exchange or presentation on a specific topic; answers ticked on a questionnaire | Set by the INLL |
The test is governed by a grand-ducal regulation of 22 July 2019 and concerns people covered by article 14 of the law of 8 March 2017 on Luxembourg nationality. Guichet.lu lists it among the prerequisites for voluntary acquisition of nationality, alongside the civics course or test and the residence condition.
What A2 speaking looks like
The INLL describes the A2 candidate as someone who can introduce themselves and speak in simple terms about family, other people, living conditions, education and occupation. The interview lets you choose between two topics, so prepare a few minutes on family, work, your town and daily routine in Luxembourgish and you will have covered most of what comes up. The visual prompt is a picture you describe in simple sentences.
What B1 listening asks
Listening is the harder half, deliberately: understanding spoken Luxembourgish in shops, at the commune and on the radio is what the test is for. The three recordings move from a short public announcement to a conversation to a presentation. Answers are multiple choice on a questionnaire, so the skill is catching the main point and the key details, not writing.
The 50% rule
- You must reach at least 50% in the speaking test.
- A speaking score below 50% can be offset by your listening score.
- In that case you pass if the average of the two scores is at least 50%.
In practice a strong listening result can carry a nervous speaking performance. The reverse is not written into the rule: the offset is described for a speaking score under 50%.
Registering and retaking
Register via the INLL's MyINL portal. There is no limit to the number of attempts; a new registration is only possible once the previous result is known. The INLL also notes that its short 24-hour courses do not entitle a learner to a certificate valid for a nationality application, so plan a longer course or self-study path to A2 speaking and B1 listening.
Frequently asked
What level of Luxembourgish do I need for nationality?
Speaking at A2 and listening at B1, tested in the Sproochentest run by the INLL.
How long is the Sproochentest?
The speaking test lasts 10 minutes, in two parts of five minutes; the listening test uses three recordings with a questionnaire.
What is the pass mark?
At least 50% in speaking. A speaking score below 50% can be offset by listening if the average of both is at least 50%.
Can I retake the test?
Yes, as many times as you like; you register again once the previous result is known.
Is a certificate from a short course enough?
No. The INLL says its 24-hour courses do not give a certificate valid for a nationality application; you must pass the Sproochentest.
Checked against the INLL's Sproochentest page and Guichet.lu's prerequisites for the voluntary acquisition of Luxembourg nationality on 3 November 2026.
