Details on Italian language test for EC long-term residence permit

 The Government has confirmed that from December, immigrants who would like to apply for the EC long-term residence permit (Carta di Soggiorno) will be required to pass an Italian language test.

Candidates will be required to prove that they have Lower intermediate level (A2) knowledge of Italian language.

Here’s what Lower intermediate level (A2) knowledge of Italian language means according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment (CEFR).

What does Lower intermediate level (A2) knowledge of Italian language mean?

Listening: I can understand phrases and the highest frequency vocabulary related to areas of most immediate personal relevance (e.g. very basic personal and family information, shopping, local area, employment). I can catch the main point in short, clear, simple messages and announcements.

Reading: I can read very short, simple texts. I can find specific, predictable  information in simple everyday material such as advertisements, prospectuses, menus and timetables and I can understand short simple personal letters.

Spoken Interaction: I can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar topics and activities. I can handle very short social exchanges, even though I can't usually understand enough to keep the conversation going myself.

Spoken Production: I can use a series of phrases and sentences to describe in simple terms my family and other people, living conditions, my educational background and my present or most recent job.

Writing: I can write short, simple notes and messages. I can write a very simple personal letter, for example thanking someone for something.