Glossary

Slovenian language exam (izpit iz znanja slovenščine)

This text was generated by AI and has not been reviewed by an editor. Every figure shows its law and source. Confirm the conditions for your case at a consultation before deciding.

In short

The Slovenian language exam (izpit iz znanja slovenščine) is needed at several stages: for permanent residence it is Slovenian exam at A2 level (since 1 November 2024), for citizenship a Slovenian exam at basic level (osnovna raven). Exams are run by the University of Ljubljana's Center za slovenščino kot drugi in tuji jezik and partner institutions.

Key figures

Language at renewal
adult family members need a Slovenian test at survival level (preživetvena raven, about A1)not required for people over 60, those studying in Slovenian or schooled in Slovenia, and families of Blue Card holders, researchers and intra-corporate transfereesLegal basis: ZTuj-2, 47. člen · as of 10 October 2026 · source
Language
Slovenian exam at A2 level (since 1 November 2024)Legal basis: ZTuj-2 (ZTuj-2H) · as of 14 June 2026 · source
Citizenship: language
a Slovenian exam at basic level (osnovna raven)Legal basis: ZDRS, 10. člen · as of 10 October 2026 · source
Exam levels
breakthrough (A1), basic (A2-B1), intermediate (B2), advanced (C1-C2)as of 10 October 2026 · source
Exam periods
4 exam periods a year at breakthrough and basic levelsas of 10 October 2026 · source
Exam results
no later than 30 working days after the examas of 10 October 2026 · source
Breakthrough level exam (A1)
€140the fee is set every yearas of 10 October 2026 · source
A2 exam at Center za slovenščino
about €172the fee is set every yearas of 14 June 2026 · source
Free attempt
one free course and one free first exam attempt for non-EU nationals with permanent residence, a permit valid at least 1 year, family of Slovenian and EU citizens, or temporary protectionLegal basis: ZTuj-2, 106. člen · as of 10 October 2026 · source
Who is exempt from the exam for permanent residence
people over 60 or under 18, those in a programme taught in Slovenian or who completed any level of schooling in Slovenia, and those unable to take it for health reasonsLegal basis: ZTuj-2, 52. člen · as of 10 October 2026 · source

Which level for what

  • Family permit renewal: adult family members need a Slovenian test at survival level (preživetvena raven, about A1).
  • Permanent residence: Slovenian exam at A2 level (since 1 November 2024).
  • Citizenship: a Slovenian exam at basic level (osnovna raven); according to the examination centre, this level is enough for citizenship.
  • Exam levels: breakthrough (A1), basic (A2-B1), intermediate (B2), advanced (C1-C2).

Where and how

  • You can register with any institution that runs the exam that year; the Center za slovenščino publishes the list.
  • Dates: 4 exam periods a year at breakthrough and basic levels.
  • The exam has a written and an oral part; at breakthrough and basic levels both are usually taken on the same day.
  • Results: no later than 30 working days after the exam.

Fees and exemptions

  • Breakthrough level: €140.
  • Basic level: about €172.
  • Free: one free course and one free first exam attempt for non-EU nationals with permanent residence, a permit valid at least 1 year, family of Slovenian and EU citizens, or temporary protection.
  • No exam needed for permanent residence: people over 60 or under 18, those in a programme taught in Slovenian or who completed any level of schooling in Slovenia, and those unable to take it for health reasons.

Frequently asked questions

What level of Slovenian do I need for permanent residence?

You need a Slovenian exam at A2 level (since 1 November 2024).

Can I take the exam for free?

Yes, once: one free course and one free first exam attempt for non-EU nationals with permanent residence, a permit valid at least 1 year, family of Slovenian and EU citizens, or temporary protection. The upravna enota issues the eligibility certificate.

How much does the Slovenian exam cost?

Breakthrough level €140, basic level about €172. Fees are set every year.

This text was generated by AI and has not been reviewed by an editor.

Updated: 10 October 2026

General information, not individual legal advice. Rules and amounts change: confirm the exact conditions for your case at a consultation.