150 Candidates Take A1 Catalan Exam in Andorra for Residency Renewal

Up to 150 candidates are taking a special A1-level Catalan proficiency exam today in Andorra to meet residency renewal requirements.

The session in Sant Julià de Lòria evaluates basic skills through tests of listening and reading comprehension, as well as written and spoken expression and interaction. Results will appear on the Culture Ministry website on 15 September, with successful participants eligible to request their official diploma afterward. The test fulfills obligations under the Official Language Law for those seeking to extend residence and work permits in the Principat.

Director of Language Policy Joan Sans noted that the A1 level poses little challenge for most newcomers using available resources. He highlighted a 95% pass rate among 250 examinees in the prior session. "It's a level that's very straightforward for someone newly arrived, attending a Catalan centre and following guided learning," Sans said.

Participants represent varied backgrounds: some aim to formalize prior knowledge, while recent arrivals have begun studying since settling in Andorra. Newcomers often practise speaking Catalan whenever possible to accelerate progress. Opinions on difficulty differ, with some finding the oral section easier and others viewing the exam as tougher overall.

Demand for government Catalan courses remains strong, though this week's intake of 700 in-person spots saw a calmer response than last year, when places filled within hours. Inscriptions closed with vacancies still available. Self-study centres continue to offer instructor support for certification preparation.

The government maintains efforts to promote the official language, including a recent €24,035 contract to encourage its use in healthcare.