Praktyczne przewodniki do nauki języka, gdy naprawdę się przeprowadzasz — biurokracja, mieszkanie, opieka zdrowotna i rozmowy ważne od pierwszego dnia.
★ PolecaneThe German you actually need for the Anmeldung — what the Bürgeramt asks, the exact phrases to use, and how to walk in ready. A practical 2026 guide.
Most language apps teach tourist phrases. If you're relocating, you need bureaucracy, housing and healthcare language. Here's what to look for in 2026.
General language apps teach tourist phrases; relocation apps teach bureaucracy, housing and healthcare. Here's how they differ and which to use.
Renting in Germany? The exact German phrases for viewings, contracts, deposits and repairs — so you can handle your landlord with confidence.
English goes far in the Netherlands — until the gemeente, the huisarts and your rental contract. The first Dutch to learn when relocating, in 2026.
Bestie Mode turns Language Lab's AI tutor Sonia into a casual friend who roasts you, hypes you up, and chats in your target language. Here's how it works.
Describing symptoms in German at the Hausarzt is stressful after moving. Exact phrases for booking, symptoms and prescriptions — 2026.
Opening a bank account is one of the first tasks after moving abroad — and it's full of paperwork vocabulary. The phrases and documents you need, for 2026.
Moving to Spain? Skip the tourist phrases. The Spanish you actually need first — empadronamiento, NIE, the doctor and renting — in this practical 2026 guide.
France runs on paperwork. The French you need first when relocating — the préfecture, healthcare, renting and daily life — in this practical 2026 guide.
The conversations that decide how your first month abroad goes — and how to rehearse them before you land. A practical checklist for movers in 2026.
A B1 certificate is required for many residence and citizenship applications. What the exam tests and how to prepare the speaking part efficiently, for 2026.
Italy's bureaucracy runs entirely in Italian — questura, codice fiscale, residenza included. The first Italian you need for relocating in 2026.
Portugal's AIMA appointments, NIF registration and healthcare all run in Portuguese. The first practical phrases when relocating to Portugal, in 2026.
Poland's zameldowanie registration, PESEL number and urząd gminy appointments are in Polish. The practical phrases to learn before you land, in 2026.
Sweden's folkbokföring, personnummer and Skatteverket registration require Swedish. The first phrases when relocating to Sweden, in 2026.
Norway's folkeregistrering, D-number and Skatteetaten appointments are in Norwegian. The essential phrases for relocating to Norway, in 2026.
Denmark's CPR number registration and borgerservice appointments are almost entirely in Danish. The first phrases for relocating, in 2026.
Russia's address registration and МВД appointments require Russian. The essential phrases for navigating your first weeks, in 2026.
Turkey's ikamet izni appointment, nüfus müdürlüğü and bank setup require Turkish. The first phrases when relocating to Turkey, in 2026.
Japan's city hall registration, My Number and bank setup require Japanese. The essential phrases before landing in Japan, in 2026.
South Korea's foreigner registration, immigration office and bank setup require Korean. The first phrases before you land, in 2026.
China's 居住证 registration, bank setup and daily life require Mandarin. The first Chinese phrases when relocating to China, in 2026.
The UAE runs on Arabic for residency, Emirates ID and healthcare. The first Arabic phrases for relocating to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, in 2026.
India's FRRO registration, daily admin and healthcare require Hindi in most cities. The first phrases when relocating to India, in 2026.
Vietnam's temporary residence registration (tạm trú) and daily admin require Vietnamese. The first phrases for relocating, in 2026.
Indonesia's KITAS, immigration (imigrasi) and NPWP tax registration require Indonesian. The essential phrases before landing, in 2026.
Thailand's immigration office, TM.30 registration and daily admin require Thai. The first phrases before landing in Thailand, in 2026.
Duolingo teaches general vocabulary. Language Lab teaches the Anmeldung, landlord, and doctor. Here's how they differ for people moving abroad.
Babbel uses structured grammar courses. Language Lab uses voiced relocation scenarios. For expats, here's which prepares you better for the real thing.
Rosetta Stone uses full immersion for general language learning. Language Lab uses voiced relocation scenarios. For immigrants, here's the practical difference.
Pimsleur is audio-only spaced repetition. Language Lab is interactive voiced scenarios. For people moving abroad, here's what each actually prepares you for.
Busuu teaches general language through community exercises. Language Lab teaches settling-in conversations. Here is the practical difference for movers.
italki connects you with human tutors. Language Lab provides an always-on AI tutor and relocation scenarios. Here is when each makes sense.
Duolingo, Babbel, Rosetta Stone, Pimsleur, Busuu, italki, Language Lab — compared for people moving abroad. Which actually prepares you for the Anmeldung?
The gemeente BRP registration in the Netherlands — what happens at the appointment, what the officer asks, and the Dutch phrases you need. A 2026 guide.
Spain's empadronamiento — what the padron office asks, exact Spanish phrases, and why it matters for your NIE and healthcare. 2026 guide.
The préfecture appointment for a titre de séjour in France — what the officer asks, the exact French phrases to use, and how to arrive prepared. A 2026 guide.
Registering residenza at the Italian comune — what the officer asks, the documents you need, and the exact Italian phrases to use. A practical 2026 guide.
Poland's zameldowanie address registration — what the officer asks, the documents you need, and the Polish phrases to use at the urząd gminy. A 2026 guide.
Relocating to Mexico City, Guadalajara or anywhere in Mexico? These are the Spanish phrases and situations you must practise before your residency appointment.
Argentine Spanish uses vos instead of tú. Here's the Spanish expats need for Buenos Aires DNM residency appointments and renting an apartment.
Brazilian Portuguese differs from European Portuguese. Expats need phrases for CPF registration, VITEM visas, and São Paulo or Rio daily life.
Austria uses German but its bureaucracy and dialect differ. Here's what expats in Vienna need before their Magistrat Meldezettel appointment.
Quebec French differs from Parisian French. Expats moving to Montreal or Quebec City need these phrases for RAMQ health card, CAQ permit, and daily Quebec life.
Flemish Dutch differs from Dutch Dutch. Expats in Antwerp or Brussels need phrases for gemeente registration, OCMW, and Belgian daily life.
How long to learn German? The Goethe-Institut's hours for each level, A1 to C2, the US State Department's 828 class hours, and the weeks at your pace.
How long does it take to learn French? The US State Department lists it at 30 weeks of classes. See the timeline for your goal and your weekly hours.
How long does it take to learn Spanish? Official figures: 30 weeks of full-time classes. See the weeks at your pace and the hours per level.
Nurses and doctors need B2 German for Approbation. Key medical phrases, Fachsprachprüfung exam tips, and the full exam timeline for healthcare workers.
Engineers on EU Blue Card or skilled worker visa. Here's the German for Ausländerbehörde appointments, job interviews, and workplace integration.
Berlin is international but the Bürgeramt is in German. These phrases get you through Anmeldung, your BVG transit card, and your first month.
Moving to Paris? French phrases for your préfecture appointment, metro card, boulangerie, and first month — even starting from zero.
Flashcards? Duolingo? Immersion? Here's what the research and expats who've done it say is actually the fastest way to learn German — for movers, not tourists.
Complete checklist for moving to Germany. Anmeldung, health insurance, bank account, tax ID, language course — in order, with German phrases.
Starting German from zero? Here's the order to learn grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation — plus which apps actually work, and what to skip as a beginner.
Speaking is the hardest skill to practise alone. AI conversation partners, language exchange, and scenario practice that actually build fluency.
India is Germany's largest source of skilled workers. Everything Indians need: Skilled Worker Visa, German requirements, Anmeldung and integration.
You don't need to move abroad to immerse yourself in a language. Science-backed techniques that work from home and accelerate acquisition.
German bank account phrases for expats. In-branch Sparkasse or Commerzbank appointments, plus N26 and DKB for instant online accounts without Anmeldung.
Getting your NIE and Seguridad Social in Spain. Spanish phrases for Policía Nacional and TGSS offices that make your first appointments go smoothly.
Going to the doctor abroad is stressful. Medical phrases in German, French, Spanish, Italian and Dutch — describe symptoms, understand prescriptions.
Language learning motivation dips after the beginner high. Science-backed techniques to stay consistent through the plateau and reach fluency.
Italian takes an English speaker 552–690 class hours by US State Department figures, or 55–69 weeks at 10 hours a week. What takes time and what goes fast.
Portuguese takes an English speaker 552–690 class hours by US State Department figures, or 55–69 weeks at 10 hours a week. What takes time and what goes fast.
Dutch takes an English speaker 552–690 class hours by US State Department figures, or 55–69 weeks at 10 hours a week. What takes the time and what goes fast.
Swedish takes an English speaker 552–690 class hours by US State Department figures, or 55–69 weeks at 10 hours a week. What takes time and what goes fast.
Norwegian takes an English speaker 552–690 class hours by US State Department figures, or 55–69 weeks at 10 hours a week. What takes time and what goes fast.
Danish takes an English speaker 552–690 class hours by US State Department figures, or 55–69 weeks at 10 hours a week. What takes the time and what goes fast.
Polish takes an English speaker about 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures: about 100 weeks at 10 hours a week. Full timeline inside.
Turkish takes an English speaker about 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures: about 100 weeks at 10 hours a week. Full timeline inside.
Indonesian takes an English speaker about 36 weeks or 828 class hours by US State Department figures: about 83 weeks at 10 hours a week. Full timeline inside.
Vietnamese takes an English speaker about 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures: about 100 weeks at 10 hours a week. Timeline inside.
Thai takes an English speaker about 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures: about 100 weeks at 10 hours a week. Full timeline inside.
How long does it take to learn Japanese? The US State Department allows 88 weeks, 2,200 class hours. See the timeline by weekly hours and JLPT level.
Korean takes an English speaker 88 weeks or 2,200 class hours by US State Department figures: over four years at 10 hours a week. Timeline and what goes fast.
How long does it take to learn Chinese? The US State Department allows 88 weeks, 2,200 class hours, for Mandarin. See the timeline at your pace.
Russian takes an English speaker about 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures: about 100 weeks at 10 hours a week. Full timeline inside.
Arabic takes an English speaker 88 weeks or 2,200 class hours by US State Department figures: over four years at 10 hours a week. Timeline and what goes fast.
How long does it take to learn Hindi? About 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures. See your timeline and India's own courses.
Starting French from zero? This guide covers the alphabet, pronunciation, essential grammar, and first vocabulary you actually need as a beginner.
Starting Spanish from scratch? This complete guide covers pronunciation, grammar basics, essential vocabulary, and exactly how to begin.
Italian is one of the most accessible languages for English speakers. Here's exactly how to start — pronunciation, grammar, and first vocabulary.
Starting Japanese? This guide covers hiragana, katakana, basic grammar, and the realistic first steps toward Japanese fluency.
Korean beginners can learn Hangul in a day. After that, here's the honest roadmap — grammar structure, first vocabulary, and realistic goals.
Arabic is one of the world's most spoken languages. Here's an honest beginner guide — script first, then MSA vs dialect decisions, then vocabulary.
Russian beginners can learn Cyrillic in two weeks. After that, here's the honest path — six cases, verb aspects, and practical first steps.
The best way to learn French isn't one app or one method — it's a specific combination. Here's what actually works, backed by research and expat experience.
The best way to learn Spanish combines structured grammar, vocabulary SRS, comprehensible input, and speaking. Here's exactly how to structure it.
Japanese requires a specific learning sequence to avoid common plateaus. Here's the evidence-based method that takes learners from zero to JLPT N3.
The best Korean learning method starts with Hangul in a week, then follows a proven grammar + SRS + input sequence. Here's exactly how.
Are language apps worth it? Duolingo, Babbel, Pimsleur and Language Lab compared honestly for serious learners and expats: what each delivers and what it doesn't.
Moving from UK to Germany post-Brexit? This guide covers the visa process, registration, health insurance, bank accounts, and German language requirements.
Moving from the UK to Spain post-Brexit? Visa options, NIE number, empadronamiento, healthcare, and what Spanish you actually need.
Moving from America to Germany? Visa options, FBAR/tax obligations, health insurance, German language requirements, and the bureaucratic sequence explained.
JLPT N5 is the entry-level Japanese proficiency exam. Here's the complete preparation guide — what's tested, study resources, and an 8-week plan.
The Goethe B1 certificate is required for German citizenship and many visa applications. Here's the complete preparation guide.
The DELE B1 certificate proves B1 Spanish and is accepted for Spanish nationality and residency applications. Here's the complete preparation guide.
Living in Amsterdam? These essential Dutch phrases cover apartment hunting, GP registration, gemeente visits, and Dutch social life — beyond basic tourism.
Moving to Rome? These practical Italian phrases cover registration at the Comune, healthcare, apartment hunting, and Roman daily life beyond tourist Italian.
The DELF B1 is accepted for French visa and citizenship applications. Here's the complete preparation guide — structure, study plan, and key resources.
TOPIK I tests Korean proficiency at A1–A2 level. Here's the complete study guide to pass Levels 1 and 2 on your first attempt.
HSK is the official Chinese proficiency exam. Here's what each level tests, who needs it, and how to prepare for HSK 3 and 4.
Starting Portuguese? This guide covers European vs Brazilian choice, pronunciation, first grammar, and how to make fast early progress.
Dutch is the fastest European language for English speakers. Here's the complete beginner guide — pronunciation, first grammar, and what to prioritise.
The best Italian learning method combines grammar, spaced repetition, comprehensible input, and speaking. Here's the evidence-based approach.
India to Germany is one of the most popular migration routes. Chancenkarte, Fachkräftevisum, German language requirements, and what to expect explained.
Living in Madrid? These practical Spanish phrases cover empadronamiento, NIE registration, healthcare, and Madrid social life beyond basic tourism.
Moving from the UK to France post-Brexit? Long-stay visa, carte de séjour, DELF French requirement, healthcare, and the administrative sequence explained.
Swedish is one of the easiest languages for English speakers. This beginner guide covers pronunciation, first grammar, and exactly how to start.
Norwegian is the closest major language to English. This beginner guide covers Bokmål basics, pronunciation, and your first steps to fluency.
Polish is Category III but fully learnable. This beginner guide covers the right starting sequence, key grammar concepts, and what to tackle first.
Germany recruits Filipino nurses actively. Complete guide: Fachkräftevisum, degree recognition, B2 German requirements, and what to expect.
The Chancenkarte lets qualified workers enter Germany without a job offer to search for work for up to one year. Here's exactly who qualifies and how to apply.
EU Blue Card is Germany's fast-track permit for high-earning skilled workers. Here are the 2026 salary thresholds, application process, and what it unlocks.
Moving from America to Spain? Non-Lucrative Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, Beckham Law tax benefits, NIE number, and the Spanish bureaucracy sequence explained.
The Goethe B2 is required for regulated professions in Germany. Here's the complete preparation guide — structure, study plan, and key resources.
Turkish is agglutinative but phonetically regular. This beginner guide covers the correct starting sequence, vowel harmony, and first grammar.
Hindi uses Devanagari script but is learnable step-by-step. This beginner guide covers the right starting sequence, script basics, and first grammar.
The German vocabulary and phrases for apartment viewings, lease negotiations, and moving in — including what landlords actually say and how to respond.
How to choose statutory health insurance in Germany — TK, AOK, Barmer, DAK — and the German phrases you need to register, claim, and visit the doctor.
Seven evidence-based techniques to accelerate German speaking fluency — from shadowing and input stacking to AI speaking practice and output forcing.
Which visa you need to move to Germany in 2026 — employment, freelance, job seeker, Chancenkarte, student, and family reunification — with the German terms
Why general language apps fail working expats — and what an app built for relocation actually teaches. Workplace vocabulary, bureaucracy phrases, and AI
A complete beginner guide to learning Thai — tones, script, pronunciation, first vocabulary, and the fastest methods for moving to Thailand.
A complete beginner guide to Vietnamese — the 6 tones, Latin script, pronunciation tips, essential vocabulary, and the fastest methods for people moving to
The German phrases you need for job interviews in Germany — common questions, how to answer them, professional vocabulary, and how to prepare in advance.
Language preparation strategies for families moving abroad — children in school, partner integration, household administration, and how to avoid the
The grammatical and pronunciation mistakes English speakers make most often in German, why they happen, and how to correct them fast.
What expats actually pay for rent, groceries, transport, healthcare, and childcare in Germany in 2026 — city by city — and the German vocabulary you need to
Practical French vocabulary for apartment hunting in France — viewing flats, understanding leases, dealing with agences immobilières, and the dossier de
Practical techniques to reach conversational French faster — from shadowing and output forcing to AI practice partners and building a daily habit around
Essential Spanish vocabulary for apartment hunting in Spain — empadronamiento, fianza, viewing phrases, and understanding Spanish rental contracts
Proven techniques to reach conversational Spanish quickly — shadowing, output forcing, AI practice, and building expat-specific vocabulary for Spain or
Practical Italian vocabulary for moving to Italy — registrazione anagrafica, codice fiscale, permesso di soggiorno, healthcare, and everyday life phrases.
Key Portuguese phrases and vocabulary for expats moving to Portugal or Brazil — NIF/CPF, SEF/AIMA, rental contracts, and everyday bureaucratic language.
Practical Dutch vocabulary for life in the Netherlands — DigiD, BSN, gemeente registration, DigiD, zorgverzekering, and phrases for everyday expat situations.
Practical Japanese vocabulary and phrases for expats — residence card registration, My Number, national health insurance, finding housing, and daily
Essential Korean vocabulary for expats in South Korea — alien registration, health insurance, apartment rental (전세/월세), shopping, and everyday situations
Practical Mandarin vocabulary for expats in China — residence permit registration, healthcare, housing, daily life phrases, and understanding Chinese tones
telc, Goethe, DTZ, Leben in Deutschland — which German certificate does your residence permit or citizenship actually require, at which level, and how to
Since 1 January 2026, France requires proof of French for residence permits. Which level you need (A2 or B1), which exams count (TCF, TEF, DELF), and how to
From April 2026, Japan's Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa adds a Japanese requirement (around JLPT N2 / CEFR B2) for some
Under the Wet inburgering 2021 (in force since 2022), the Dutch civic-integration level is B1. What the inburgeringsexamen involves, the three routes, and
For Spanish citizenship, non-native speakers usually need DELE A2 plus the CCSE civic test. What each exam covers, who is exempt, and how to prepare for the
Italy's long-term residence permit needs A2 Italian (CILS A2 / CELI 1); citizenship needs B1 (CILS / PLIDA). Which exam to take, the difference, and how to
Realistic hours to reach A1, A2, B1, B2 in German, based on FSI and Goethe-Institut estimates — plus how long to hit B1 for residence, and how to learn
How many hours to reach A2, B1 and fluency in Spanish — one of the faster languages for English speakers (FSI Category I) — plus how long to B1 and how to
Duolingo is great for habit and vocabulary, but thin on the real conversations relocation demands. An honest look at when to switch, and what a
US naturalization requires reading, writing and speaking English plus the 2025 civics test (20 questions, 12 to pass). What each part involves, who's
Canada PR and citizenship need a designated English test. CELPIP vs IELTS vs PTE Core, the CLB levels Express Entry requires (CLB 7+), citizenship's CLB 4
Tourist English isn't enough when you move to the US. The real English for getting a Social Security number, the DMV, signing a lease, the doctor, and the
The real English for settling in Canada — getting your SIN, a provincial health card, signing a lease, the bank, the doctor — beyond the IELTS/CELPIP exam
Realistic hours to reach A2, B1, B2 and fluency in English — what affects the timeline, how long to the level you need for immigration, and how to learn
The exact English for booking a doctor's appointment, describing symptoms, understanding the doctor, and handling prescriptions — for newcomers to the US
The English to introduce yourself, answer common interview questions, and ask your own — for newcomers job-hunting in the US, UK, Canada or Australia
The English to view a flat, ask the right questions, understand a lease, and deal with your landlord — for newcomers renting in the US, UK, Canada or
Phone calls are the hardest English — no visual cues, often fast. The phrases for customer service, booking, and getting things sorted by phone in an
The English you need at the US DMV — booking, the documents, the written knowledge test, and the road test — for newcomers. What to say, what to expect, and
PTE Core (accepted by IRCC since 2024) vs CELPIP for Canada Express Entry — format, scoring to CLB, speaking differences, and how to prepare. An honest
For UK settlement (ILR) and citizenship you need B1 speaking & listening plus the Life in the UK Test. Which SELT counts (Trinity GESE 5 or IELTS Life
Beyond the visa English test, the real English for settling in the UK — registering with a GP, getting a National Insurance number, council tax, renting
Beyond the visa English test, the real English for settling in Australia — getting a Tax File Number, enrolling in Medicare, renting, the bank, and the GP
Moving to Austria? The German you need for the Meldezettel, the Austrian words that differ from Germany, and the best way to actually learn it before you land.
Moving to a German-speaking canton? Why you learn standard German for paperwork but hear Swiss German on the street, the Gemeinde registration, and how to
Moving to Saudi Arabia? Why Arabic matters more here than the UAE, the Iqama and Absher vocabulary, Gulf dialect vs Modern Standard Arabic, and how to prepare.
Beyond passing an English test — the real English for the PPS number, registering with a GP, renting, and Irish turns of phrase. A practical guide for
Moving to Colombia? The Spanish for your cédula and visa, why Bogotá Spanish is famously clear, the polite usted habit, and the best way to prepare before
Moving to Chile? The Spanish for your RUT and visa, why Chilean Spanish is famously fast and slang-heavy, and the best way to prepare before you land.
Moving to Peru? The Spanish for your Carné de Extranjería and visa, why Lima Spanish is clear and formal, and the best way to prepare before you land.
Moving to Ecuador? The Spanish for your cédula and residence visa, the gentle highland accent, and the best way to prepare before you land.
Moving to Uruguay? The Spanish for your cédula and residency, why it sounds like Argentine Spanish, mate culture, and the best way to prepare.
Moving to Costa Rica? The Spanish for your DIMEX residency and the CCSS health system, the friendly 'pura vida' culture, and how to prepare.
Moving to Panama? The Spanish for your residence permit and cédula E, why English is common but Spanish essential, and how to prepare.
Moving to the Dominican Republic? The Spanish for your residency and cédula, the fast musical Caribbean accent, and how to prepare before you land.
Moving to Bolivia? The Spanish for your residency and foreigner ID, the clear highland accent alongside Quechua and Aymara, and how to prepare.
Moving to an Arabic-speaking country? Why you learn Modern Standard Arabic for paperwork but a dialect for the street, and how to prepare for any destination.
Moving to Qatar? The Arabic for your QID and residence permit, why Doha is English-friendly but Arabic opens doors, and how to prepare.
Moving to Egypt? Why Egyptian Arabic is the region's most understood dialect, the residence registration process, and how to prepare before you land.
Moving to Morocco? Why daily life mixes Darija and French, the carte de séjour process, and the best way to prepare for a multilingual country.
Moving to Kuwait? The Arabic for your Civil ID and residence, why Gulf Arabic builds real rapport, and how to prepare before you land.
Moving to Bahrain? The Arabic for your CPR card and residence, why the compact island is English-friendly but Arabic helps, and how to prepare.
Moving to Oman? The Arabic for your resident card and residence permit, why Omani culture values Arabic, and how to prepare before you land.
Moving to Jordan? Why Jordanian Levantine Arabic is a great gateway dialect, the iqama process, and how to prepare before you land.
Moving to Luxembourg? Why French runs daily admin, where Luxembourgish and German fit in, the commune declaration, and how to prepare.
Moving to Taiwan? Why it uses traditional characters, the warm local Mandarin, the ARC and health insurance process, and how to prepare.
Moving to Kazakhstan? Why Russian remains the everyday lingua franca alongside Kazakh, the migration registration, and how to prepare.
Beyond a visa English test — the real English for your IRD number, enrolling with a GP, Kiwi vocabulary and Māori greetings, and how to prepare.
Beyond passing English — the real English for your work pass and NRIC, understanding Singlish, and how to prepare for settling in Singapore.
Moving to Hong Kong? Why English handles the paperwork but Cantonese transforms daily life, the HKID process, and how to prepare.
Is Language Lab a real app or a scam? A straight answer: it's a genuine, free-to-start language app for people moving abroad
Is Language Lab free? Yes — it's free to start with no credit card required. Here's exactly what you get for free and how pricing is likely to work.
How does Language Lab work? It combines structured lessons, real-life relocation scenarios, and Sonia — a live AI voice tutor — to teach the language you
Is Language Lab safe and private? Yes — secure login, encrypted connections, strict per-user data access, and consent-based analytics. Here's exactly how
An honest 2026 review of Language Lab — the AI language app built for people moving abroad. What it does well, where it falls short, and who it's really for.
A complete moving abroad checklist for 2026 — visa, housing, banking, healthcare, language and the admin most people forget. What to do, and in what order
How to move to another country in 2026 — a step-by-step guide covering visas, housing, money, healthcare and the language, and how to sequence them so
Relocating abroad comes down to four systems — language, visa, housing and career. Here is how they connect, which to solve first, and why coordinating them
Greek takes an English speaker about 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures: about 100 weeks at 10 hours a week. Full timeline inside.
Czech takes an English speaker about 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures: about 100 weeks at 10 hours a week. Full timeline inside.
Is Polish hard for English speakers? What the US State Department says, the four things that actually slow learners down, and a realistic plan.
A clear Polish pronunciation guide for English speakers: the alphabet, sz/cz/rz, the soft consonants, nasal vowels ą and ę, and where the stress falls.
Polish grammar cases made practical: what each of the seven cases does, which three to learn first, and real phrases for shopping, directions and work.
Polish citizenship needs certified B1 Polish. What the Citizenship Act says, who is exempt, how the state certificate exam works, and how to prepare.
The Polish you need at the doctor and the pharmacy: booking, describing symptoms, body parts, questions you'll be asked, and buying medicine at the apteka.
German citizenship needs B1 German and the naturalisation test. What § 10 of the Nationality Act says, who is exempt, and a practical plan to reach B1.
Austrian citizenship needs B1 German, a civics test and usually 10 years of residence. What the Citizenship Act and Integration Act say, and how to prepare.
Swiss naturalisation needs B1 spoken and A2 written skills in a national language, 10 years' residence and a C permit. What SEM says and how to prepare.
Finnish citizenship needs satisfactory Finnish or Swedish, usually YKI level 3, and 8 years' residence. What Migri accepts and how to prepare for the test.
Czech citizenship requires two exams: a B1 Czech language exam and a Czech life and institutions test. How they work, registration rules and how to prepare.
Since 6 June 2026 Swedish citizenship requires knowledge of Swedish and Swedish society, 8 years' residence and self-support. How to prove it and prepare.
Moving to Finland? The Finnish you need first, how hard it is, when Swedish is an option, and the language rules for permanent residence and citizenship.
Moving to Greece? How hard Greek is for English speakers, how fast to learn the alphabet, the phrases you need first, and a realistic plan for daily life.
Moving to Prague or Brno? The Czech you need first, how hard Czech really is, and the official A2 exam for permanent residence and B1 exams for citizenship.
Moving to Budapest? How hard Hungarian is, why it's unlike other European languages, the phrases to learn first, and a realistic plan for newcomers.
How long it takes to learn Finnish: the US State Department estimate, what makes Finnish slow and fast, and the levels you need for life in Finland.
How long it takes to learn Hungarian: the US State Department estimate, why it takes the time it does, what helps, and a realistic learning timeline.
Which English test for an Australian visa? The Home Affairs score tables for IELTS and PTE Academic at competent and proficient level, and how to choose.
What language level each European country requires for citizenship in 2026: Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Finland, Sweden, Czechia and Poland compared.
What language level you need for permanent residence in Germany, France, Austria, Finland and Czechia in 2026 — and where a Blue Card lowers the bar.
How fast can you learn English? Cambridge's hour estimates for each level, the two study methods with the strongest evidence, and a weekly plan that works.
How fast can you learn Spanish? The US State Department's 30-week figure, what it means per week, the study methods that work and a weekly plan.
The two official Spanish tests compared: DELE and SIELE formats, levels, scores, validity, result times and the DELE exam dates for 2026 and 2027.
The free Spanish courses worth your time: the Open University's OpenLearn, the BBC's Mi Vida Loca and the Instituto Cervantes archive, plus a weekly plan.
Five free ways to learn English from trusted institutions: the British Council, BBC, Voice of America, USA Learns and Cambridge, with a weekly plan.
The main English language tests compared: IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic and Cambridge. Formats, score scales, the new TOEFL 1–6 scale and validity.
How fast can you learn French? The US State Department's 30-week figure, what B2 unlocks in France, the study methods that work and a weekly plan.
The official French tests compared: DELF and DALF diplomas that last for life, and the TCF test valid for 2 years. Formats, timings, results and which to take.
The free French courses worth your time: TV5MONDE's 2,000 exercises, RFI's daily news in easy French, the Open University's OpenLearn and the BBC archive.
How fast can you learn German? The US State Department's 36-week figure, why B1 is the level most people need, and a weekly plan that works.
The main German language tests compared: Goethe-Zertifikat A1 to C2 and TestDaF. Levels, B1 exam timings, the 60% pass mark, results and which one to take.
The free German courses worth your time: Deutsche Welle's courses from A1 to C1, including Nicos Weg, and the Goethe-Institut's free exercises and community.
Is Spanish hard to learn? The US State Department ranks it in its easiest group. See how it compares, which parts take longest and how to plan.
Is French hard to learn? The US State Department puts it in its easiest group at 30 weeks. See how it compares and which parts need the most work.
Is German hard to learn? The US State Department allows about 828 class hours, more than French or Spanish. See which parts of German take the work.
French vs Spanish compared on difficulty, speaker numbers, official exams and free courses. Both take 30 weeks by US State Department figures.
How long does it take to learn English? Cambridge English gives guided learning hours for every level, from 90–100 for A1 to 1,000–1,200 for C2. Plan yours.
The Japanese language test explained: JLPT levels N5 to N1, 2026 dates (5 July and 6 December), test times, pass marks, CEFR levels and what each is used for.
Learn Japanese for free with courses from Japan's public institutions: the Japan Foundation's Minato and Irodori, and NHK's 48 Easy Japanese lessons.
Is Japanese hard to learn? For English speakers it is in the hardest official group: 88 weeks, 2,200 class hours. See what makes it hard and what helps.
How to learn Japanese fast: learn kana first, follow one structured course, test yourself, space your reviews and speak daily. Built on official sources.
33 Japanese phrases for travel, by situation: trains and taxis, shopping, restaurants, sightseeing and problems. Each one checked against NHK's Easy Japanese.
Japanese phrases for tourists in two lists: 12 to say and 6 you will hear from staff, with meanings. All taken from NHK WORLD-JAPAN's Easy Japanese lessons.
30 Japanese phrases for beginners from NHK's Easy Japanese course: introductions, questions, reactions and polite set phrases, with script and meaning.
The Chinese language test explained: HSK levels 1 to 9, question counts, timings, pass marks, remaining 2026 dates and the HSK 3.0 launch on 13 December 2026.
Learn Chinese for free with The Open University's four beginner Mandarin courses, the BBC's Real Chinese archive and official HSK mock tests. What each covers.
Is Chinese hard to learn? For English speakers Mandarin is in the hardest official group: 88 weeks, 2,200 class hours. See why, and which parts are simpler.
How to learn Chinese fast: master pinyin and the four tones, follow one course, learn characters in words, test yourself and speak daily. From official sources.
Chinese vs Mandarin explained: Mandarin is the largest of seven major varieties of spoken Chinese, with about 800 million speakers. Which one should you learn?
Chinese vs Japanese compared with official figures: both take 88 weeks by US State Department measures. See writing, sounds, tests and free courses.
The Korean language test explained: TOPIK I and II, the six levels and their score bands, test times, fees in Korea, validity and the next test dates.
Learn Korean for free with the Online King Sejong Institute, a free service backed by Korea's government, plus official TOPIK practice. Start with Hangeul.
How to learn Korean fast: learn Hangeul's 24 basic letters first, follow one free official course, test yourself, speak daily and aim at a TOPIK level.
Japanese vs Korean compared with official figures: both take 88 weeks by US State Department measures. See scripts, tests, free courses and uses.
Chinese vs Korean compared: both are 88-week languages by US State Department figures. See tones, scripts, the HSK and TOPIK tests and free courses.
German vs Japanese compared with official figures: about 828 class hours against 2,200 for English speakers. See grammar, scripts, exams and free courses.
40 Spanish phrases for travel, grouped by hotel, directions and tickets, shops, and food and drink, with meanings. Checked against the BBC's Spanish Quick Fix.
30 Spanish phrases for beginners: greetings, introducing yourself, polite words, simple questions and reactions, with meanings and tips on formal and informal.
35 Spanish phrases for conversation: openers, good wishes, feelings, small talk and celebrations, with informal and formal forms. From the BBC's Spanish lists.
Spanish phrases for the restaurant from both sides of the table: what staff say, what customers say, ordering, drinks and the bill, with a model dialogue.
40 French phrases for travel and tourists: greetings, the hotel, directions and tickets, shops and cafés, with meanings. Checked against the BBC's French lists.
30 French phrases for beginners: greetings, introducing yourself, polite words, first questions, good wishes and reactions, with pronunciation tips.
French phrases for restaurants and cafés: asking for a table, understanding the waiter, ordering food and drinks, and paying, with a model conversation.
45 German phrases for travel and tourists: greetings, hotel, directions and tickets, shopping, and eating out, with meanings. From the BBC's German lists.
40 Italian phrases for travel: greetings, the hotel, directions and tickets, restaurants and shops, with meanings. Checked against the BBC's Italian Quick Fix.
40 Portuguese phrases for travelers: greetings, rooms, directions, cafés and restaurants, and shopping, with meanings. From the BBC's Portuguese Quick Fix.
Greek phrases for travel in two parts: 16 key phrases with pronunciation, and 28 written phrases for rooms, tavernas and directions. From the BBC's Greek lists.
Hindi phrases for beginners and daily use: 21 essentials with pronunciation, formal and informal forms, and how Hindi sentences are built. From the BBC's guide.
20 Korean phrases for travel and beginners, in Hangeul with pronunciation and meaning: greetings, thanks, yes and no, asking for help and saying goodbye.
20 Arabic phrases for beginners and travel, written the way they sound: greetings, thanks, yes and no, asking for help, and what to know about Arabic first.
36 Russian phrases for beginners in Cyrillic with meanings: greetings, polite words, asking for help, good wishes and celebrations.
18 Thai phrases for travel with pronunciation and meaning, plus the polite endings for men and women and how the five tones work. From the BBC's guide to Thai.
22 Turkish phrases for travel with meanings: greetings, thanks, asking for help and saying goodbye, plus why Turkish is easy to read. From the BBC's guide.
Learn Hindi for free or nearly free through India's own institutions: a fully funded one-year course in Agra, LILA self-study tools and US$50 postal courses.
Is Hindi hard to learn? Officially it is a hard language for English speakers: about 44 weeks, 1,012 class hours. See what is difficult and what is easy.
How to learn Hindi fast: learn the script early, build sentences verb-last, learn nouns with their gender, test yourself and speak daily. From official sources.
Hindi language tests explained: the Indian government's Certificate, Diploma and Advance Diploma in Hindi, their exams, fees, eligibility and July start.
Italian language tests explained: the four official certificates, CILS levels A1 to C2, 2026 and 2027 exam dates, scoring, results and which level you need.
Learn Italian for free with The Open University's three beginner courses, the BBC's archived Italian lessons and official CILS sample exams. Plus a weekly plan.
How to learn Italian fast: use its phonetic spelling, learn nouns with their gender, drill the six verb endings, test yourself and speak daily. With sources.
Italian vs Spanish compared: 24 weeks against 30 by US State Department figures, how similar they are, where each is spoken, exams and free courses.
French vs Italian compared: 30 weeks against 24 by US State Department figures, pronunciation, where each is spoken, official exams and free courses.
Portuguese language tests explained: Portugal's CAPLE exams from ACESSO to DUPLE, the A2 level for nationality, exam seasons, results, and Brazil's Celpe-Bras.
Learn Portuguese for free with Portugal's official Plataforma de Português Online, 24 modules at levels A and B, plus the BBC's archived Portuguese lessons.
Portuguese vs Spanish compared: 24 weeks against 30 by US State Department figures, how alike they are, where each is spoken, exams and free courses.
How to learn Portuguese fast: choose European or Brazilian, train the sounds, learn the six verb endings, test yourself and speak daily. With official sources.
French vs Portuguese compared: 30 weeks against 24 by US State Department figures, sounds, where each is spoken, official exams and free courses.
The Russian language test explained: TORFL's six levels from elementary to fourth certificate, how they match A1 to C2, and what each level lets you do.
How to learn Russian fast: master Cyrillic first, follow the official level ladder, test yourself, space your reviews and speak daily. Hours and milestones.
French vs Russian compared with official figures: 30 weeks against about 44 for English speakers. See alphabets, exams, level ladders and how to choose.
The Arabic language test explained: CIMA from the Institut du monde arabe, its four papers, A1 to C2 results, autumn 2026 session dates and how to prepare.
Learn Arabic for free with Al Jazeera's Learning Arabic site, a free resource with seven levels, a placement test and news lessons, plus the BBC's Arabic guide.
How to learn Arabic fast: choose Modern Standard Arabic, learn the script, train the new sounds, test yourself and speak daily. With hours and free resources.
Arabic vs Hindi compared with official figures: 88 weeks against about 44 for English speakers. See scripts, grammar, where each is spoken and tests.
The Greek language test explained: the Certificate of Attainment in Greek, its six levels A1 to C2, paper lengths, May 2027 exam dates, fees and how to prepare.
Learn Greek for free with Staellinika, the Greek foreign ministry's free platform, the BBC's archived Greek guide and the official online level tests.
How to learn Greek fast: learn the 24-letter alphabet first, use the Greek already in English, get the three genders, test yourself and speak every day.
Greek vs Italian compared with official figures: about 44 weeks of classes against 24 for English speakers. See alphabets, grammar, exams and how to choose.
Dutch language tests explained: the Staatsexamen Nt2 at B1 or B2 in the Netherlands, at €50 a part, and CNaVT worldwide from A2 to C1. Dates, uses and prep.
Learn Dutch for free: the University of Groningen's free three-week beginners' course, the NedBox practice site, the BBC's Dutch guide and exam practice.
How to learn Dutch fast: start from the words English shares, learn every noun with de or het, get used to verbs at the end, test yourself and speak daily.
Dutch vs German compared with official figures: 24 weeks of classes against about 36 for English speakers. See articles, cases, where each is spoken and exams.
Dutch vs French compared with official figures: 24 weeks of classes against 30 for English speakers. See grammar, Belgium, where each is spoken and exams.
Dutch vs English: how similar they are, what differs, and which to learn. Dutch takes English speakers 24 weeks of classes; see speakers, exams and uses.
The Turkish language test explained: TYS from the Yunus Emre Institute, its four sections in 180 minutes, B2 and C1 certificates, fees by country and dates.
Learn Turkish for free with the Yunus Emre Institute's teaching portal and video lessons, the BBC's archived Turkish guide and the official TYS sample exam.
How to learn Turkish fast: use the phonetic alphabet, learn how suffixes build verbs, put the verb last, test yourself and speak daily. With hours.
The Thai language test explained: CU-TFL and TH-TFL from Chulalongkorn University, the four skills, fees in baht, test dates to 2027 and centres abroad.
Learn Thai for free with Communicative Thai for Foreigners, the video course by Chulalongkorn University on the Thailand Foundation's site, and the BBC's guide.
How to learn Thai fast: train the five tones first, start speaking with a phonetic spelling, use the simple grammar, add the script, test yourself daily.
Italian vs Thai compared with official figures: 24 weeks of classes against about 44 for English speakers. See tones, scripts, grammar, exams and free courses.
The Polish language test explained: the state certificate exam in Polish as a foreign language, its levels, pass marks, fee caps and all 2027 session dates.
Learn Polish for free: three free university courses on the Polish platform NAVOICA, the BBC's archived Polish guide with audio, and official past exam papers.
How to learn Polish fast: master the 33 letters and the hissing sounds, use the fixed stress, learn cases as patterns, test yourself and speak every day.
German vs Polish compared with official figures: about 36 weeks of classes against about 44 for English speakers. See cases, sounds, speakers and exams.
Urdu language tests explained: India's NCPUL Diploma in Urdu Language, GCSE Urdu and A level Urdu in the UK, with papers, timings, fees and who each suits.
Learn Urdu for free: the BBC's archived Urdu guide with alphabet audio and key phrases, India's NCPUL online lessons and its one-year diploma at Rs. 350.
How to learn Urdu fast: speak first, learn the 52-character script in stages, memorise words with their sound, master the three forms of you, test yourself.
Hindi vs Urdu compared: almost identical in everyday speech, written in different scripts. See vocabulary, speakers, official courses and how to choose.
Learn Persian for free with Persian Language Online's free courses from beginner to intermediate, the University of Texas's Persian Online and the BBC's guide.
How to learn Persian (Farsi) fast: use the simple grammar, learn the 32-letter script early, train the kh and gh sounds, test yourself and speak every day.
English vs Persian (Farsi) compared: scripts, grammar, sounds, shared words, where each is spoken, how long each takes to learn and the tests for each.
How to learn Hebrew fast: learn the 22 letters and five final forms, read without vowel marks, train the throat sounds, test yourself and speak every day.
How to learn Swahili fast: read it as it is written, learn how prefixes build every verb, use the words you already know, test yourself and speak daily.
Learn Swedish for free in 2026: the official Hej svenska app, pronunciation videos, news in easy Swedish and free SFI classes. The old SI course has closed.
How to learn Swedish fast: lean on its closeness to English, train the sounds and melody early, follow a levelled free course, test yourself and listen daily.
Learn Norwegian for free with LearnNoW and Norwegian on the Web, two online courses from NTNU with texts, audio, grammar, exercises and vocabulary lists.
How to learn Norwegian fast: work with audio every day, follow a free university course in order, drill vocabulary, test yourself and speak from week one.
Learn Danish for free: people who move to Denmark are entitled to free Danish lessons from their municipality. See who qualifies, the deposit and the tests.
How to learn Danish fast: use its closeness to English, train your ear first, take the free module-based lessons in Denmark, test yourself and speak daily.
How to learn Finnish fast: use the regular spelling, learn the 15 cases as endings, train double letters, add spoken Finnish to book Finnish and speak daily.
Learn Czech for free: Masaryk University's Czechonline portal with A1 and A2 courses, free courses at state integration centres, and the exams to aim for.
How to learn Czech fast: learn the alphabet and its marks, read gender from noun endings, take the seven cases one at a time, learn verbs in pairs, speak daily.
How to learn Hungarian fast: master the alphabet's letter pairs, use first-syllable stress, learn cases as endings, take the free A1 course and speak daily.
How to learn Croatian fast: use the one-letter-one-sound alphabet, take the seven cases in order, learn verbs in pairs, use the free HR4EU course, speak daily.
How to learn Serbian fast: learn the Cyrillic and Latin alphabets together, take the seven cases in order, learn verbs in pairs, test yourself and speak daily.
How to learn Bulgarian fast: learn the 30-letter Cyrillic alphabet first, use prepositions instead of cases, master the article and verb aspect, speak daily.
How to learn Ukrainian fast: learn the 33-letter alphabet with audio, take the seven cases in order, learn verbs in pairs, use free courses and speak daily.
How to learn Romanian fast: use its Latin vocabulary, learn the special letters, handle two cases and three genders early, train word stress and speak daily.
Learn Catalan as an English speaker: what kind of language it is, the free official Parla.cat course from A2 to C1, the special letters and first phrases.
Learn Lithuanian as an English speaker: what kind of language it is, how long it takes, the 32-letter alphabet, where to find study material and first phrases.
27 Tamil phrases for beginners in Tamil script with pronunciation: greetings, polite words, introducing yourself and the numbers from zero to ten.
Learn Tamil for free: the Open University's free beginners' course and the Tamil Nadu government's Tamil Virtual Academy, with what each offers and costs.
How to learn Tamil fast: learn the 12 vowels and 18 consonants and how they combine, train your ear, start with modern Tamil, use graded courses, speak daily.
Tamil language test guide: the Tamil Virtual Academy's certificate examinations, their three levels, the fees, how the exams work and how to prepare.
Hindi vs Tamil compared: language families, scripts, where each is spoken, greetings, how long each takes to learn, and which one to learn first.
How to learn Vietnamese fast: use the Latin alphabet, train the six tones first, learn the words for addressing people, follow graded lessons and speak daily.
Learn Vietnamese for free with Northern Illinois University's open online course: 20 lessons of spoken Vietnamese, a pronunciation guide with audio, and more.
How to learn Indonesian fast: use its regular spelling, learn polite phrases first, build sentences from a few frames, ask people for words and speak daily.
How to learn Bengali (Bangla) fast: learn how the script joins vowels to consonants, choose the colloquial standard, master three case endings and speak daily.
Learn Cantonese as an English speaker: how long it takes, the six tones, the Jyutping romanisation that lets you read sounds, and a plan for your first weeks.
39 English phrases for beginners from the British Council's A1 speaking lessons: meeting people, saying where you're from, checking understanding and more.
47 English phrases for daily use from British Council speaking lessons: apologising, giving instructions, talking about your job, asking a favour and more.
43 English phrases for conversation from British Council speaking lessons: keeping a chat going, showing interest, reacting to news, agreeing, disagreeing.
Best app to learn English: seven things to check before you choose, what English asks of an app, official material to pair it with and a one-week test.
Best app to learn Spanish: seven things to check before you choose, what Spanish asks of an app, official material to pair it with and a one-week test.
Best app to learn French: seven things to check before you choose, what French asks of an app, official material to pair it with and a one-week test.
Best app to learn German: seven things to check before you choose, what German asks of an app, official material to pair it with and a one-week test.
Best app to learn Japanese: seven things to check before you choose, what Japanese asks of an app, official material to pair it with and a one-week test.
Best app to learn Chinese: seven things to check before you choose, what Chinese asks of an app, official material to pair it with and a one-week test.
Best app to learn Hindi: seven things to check before you choose, what Hindi asks of an app, official material to pair it with and a one-week test.
Best app to learn Korean: seven things to check before you choose, what Korean asks of an app, official material to pair it with and a one-week test.
Best app to learn Arabic: seven things to check before you choose, what Arabic asks of an app, official material to pair it with and a one-week test.
Best app to learn Italian: seven things to check before you choose, what Italian asks of an app, official material to pair it with and a one-week test.
Best app to learn Russian: seven things to check before you choose, what Russian asks of an app, official material to pair it with and a one-week test.
Best app to learn Greek: seven things to check before you choose, what Greek asks of an app, official material to pair it with and a one-week test.
Best app to learn Tamil: seven things to check before you choose, what Tamil asks of an app, official material to pair it with and a one-week test.
Best app to learn Thai: seven things to check before you choose, what Thai asks of an app, official material to pair it with and a one-week test.
Best app to learn Portuguese: seven things to check before you choose, what Portuguese asks of an app, official material to pair it with and a one-week test.
33 Mandarin Chinese phrases for beginners in characters and pinyin: greetings, polite words, introducing yourself, asking for help and the numbers 1 to 10.
28 Mandarin Chinese phrases for travel in pinyin: the basics, booking a room, finding a restaurant, pharmacy or supermarket, and getting help when stuck.
Learn English for beginners: choose one free beginner course, learn first phrases and the first grammar points in order, listen at slow speed and test yourself.
Learn English for adults and adult beginners: free courses made for adults, how many hours each level takes, a weekly plan around work, and how to study well.
Learn English as a Spanish speaker: use the 3,000 words the two languages share, handle English spelling and sounds, and follow free courses, one in Spanish.
36 English phrases for Spanish speakers: 22 everyday phrases with their Spanish equivalents, and 14 English phrases for checking understanding and apologising.
Learn English as a Chinese speaker: what differs most, tenses, plurals and articles, which grammar to study first, and free courses, one with a Chinese menu.
Learn English as a Vietnamese speaker: the alphabet is familiar, but word forms change. Which grammar to study first, free courses and a weekly plan.
English vs French compared: shared vocabulary, grammar, sounds, where each is spoken, how long each takes to learn, the official tests and which to learn.
English vs Japanese compared: writing systems, politeness, how long each takes to learn, the official tests, everyday phrases in both, and which to learn.
English vs Portuguese compared: shared words, verb endings, where each is spoken, how long each takes to learn, the official tests and which to learn first.
Chinese vs Portuguese compared: writing, tones, grammar, where each is spoken, how long each takes an English speaker, the official tests and which to learn.
Is English hard to learn? It depends on your first language. What is easy, what is hard, how many hours each level takes and where to find free help.
Learn Spanish for beginners: the first free course to follow, first phrases, the three grammar ideas to expect, and a first-month plan built on self-testing.
Learn Spanish as an adult: plan by hours, pick the level you need, use free courses and official practice by level, and choose between DELE and SIELE.
Learn German for beginners: the free A1 course to follow, first phrases, the grammar to expect, what level A1 means and a first-month plan with self-testing.
Learn Japanese as an adult beginner: the two scripts to learn first, free courses made for adults living and working in Japan, first phrases and a weekly plan.
48 Spanish phrases and words for the classroom, for teachers with Spanish-speaking pupils: greetings, checking understanding, commands, activities and objects.
Cantonese takes an English speaker 88 weeks or 2,200 class hours by US State Department figures: over four years at 10 hours a week. Full timeline inside.
Hebrew takes an English speaker about 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures: about 100 weeks at 10 hours a week. Full timeline inside.
Romanian takes an English speaker 552–690 class hours by US State Department figures, or 55–69 weeks at 10 hours a week. What takes time and what goes fast.
Swahili takes an English speaker about 36 weeks or 828 class hours by US State Department figures: about 83 weeks at 10 hours a week. Full timeline inside.
Ukrainian takes an English speaker about 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures: about 100 weeks at 10 hours a week. Timeline inside.
Urdu takes an English speaker about 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures: about 100 weeks at 10 hours a week. Full timeline inside.
Bulgarian takes an English speaker about 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures: about 100 weeks at 10 hours a week. Timeline inside.
Croatian takes an English speaker about 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures: about 100 weeks at 10 hours a week. Timeline inside.
Serbian takes an English speaker about 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures: about 100 weeks at 10 hours a week. Full timeline inside.
Persian takes an English speaker about 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures: about 100 weeks at 10 hours a week. Full timeline inside.
Lithuanian takes an English speaker about 44 weeks or 1,012 class hours by US State Department figures: about 100 weeks at 10 hours a week. Timeline inside.
What Norwegian you need for citizenship: an oral test at B1 for applicants aged 18 to 67, plus the citizenship or social studies test in Norwegian. UDI's rules.
Joining a spouse in Germany means proving basic German at A1 before the visa. Which certificates count, who is exempt, and what the embassy interview checks.
The YKI intermediate test is the usual proof of Finnish or Swedish for citizenship: grade 3 in two subtests, the accepted pairings, and why you sit all four.
The Sproochentest for Luxembourg nationality: speaking at A2 (10 minutes), listening at B1, the 50% rule that lets listening rescue speaking, and registration.
French in Express Entry: 25 extra CRS points with NCLC 7 in all four skills, 50 with CLB 5 English as well, and what IRCC's 2026 consultation may change.
Danish citizenship needs Prøve i Dansk 3 or an equivalent, plus the Indfødsretsprøve of 2021. Which exams count, the school-exam alternative, and dispensation.
Joining a partner in the Netherlands starts with the Civic Integration Exam Abroad: Dutch society, speaking and reading at A1, at the embassy, valid one year.
The NMC accepts two English tests: IELTS Academic 7, 7, 6.5, 7 or OET B, B, C+, B, valid two years, two sittings combinable within 12 months. Which to take.
The CILS B1 Cittadinanza is Italy's exam built for citizenship: four papers in about 2 hours 5 minutes plus a 10-minute oral, 100 euro, no part can be banked.
Arabic is the UAE's official language; English is on every sign and in every court. What the official portal says about languages, and where Arabic matters.
From 1 January 2026 France asks B2 French, written and oral, for naturalisation and citizenship by marriage, plus a civic exam. The decrees and the proof.
The Goethe-Zertifikat A1 Start Deutsch 1: 65-minute written exam (listening 20, reading 25, writing 20), a 15-minute group oral, and how points are counted.
KIIP, Korea's Immigration and Integration Program: levels 0 to 5, the hours, the level test, and what level 5 does for permanent residency and naturalisation.
Japan's Specified Skilled Worker visa accepts the JFT-Basic or JLPT N4 as the language test. How the two differ, who is exempt, and when they are held in 2026.
English gets you through Amsterdam; Dutch gets you residence. Who must reach B1 in 3 years, what exams cost, why the city's free courses exclude expats.
Language Lab zamienia te przewodniki w głosowe, realne ćwiczenia z tutorem AI na żywo.
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