Top Thai chefs have to leave Switzerland after language test shock!

Top Thai chefs have to leave Switzerland after language test shock!

The wishes of many Thai culinary artists can sometimes end in the cold reality of Switzerland. This is what happened to the two renowned top chefs Vilai and Virat Kanjan, who lost their residence permit after failing the German test three times and now have to leave Switzerland. This reports Focus.

The two chefs were known for their outstanding work at the Bürgenstock Resort on Lake Lucerne. There they ran the first-class Asian restaurant “Spices”, which boasts 16 Gault-Millau points. The canton of Nidwalden requires foreign skilled workers to have a language certificate at level A2 in order to enable the extension of the residence permit. This regulation is aimed particularly at people from third countries outside the EU and EFTA.

Integration requests and rejected requests

The Kanjan sisters said that the oral part of the German test was particularly challenging for them. After they failed three times, they not only lost their residence permit but also their jobs in Switzerland. Now they have found a new job in the 5-star Schloss Elmau Hotel in Germany.

The Bürgenstock Resort offered language courses to employees during their time in Switzerland, but did not comment on this specific case for data protection reasons. Cantonal authorities emphasize the far-reaching importance of knowledge of German for integration into society, while the industry association Gastrosuisse criticizes the strict language requirements for foreign skilled workers and calls for these regulations to be reviewed.

Background on language certificates

In order to support the integration of migrants, language skills are essential. Since 2005, the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) has been promoting language acquisition through integration courses and has been offering the naturalization test since 2008. The test ends with the “German Test for Immigrants” (DTZ), whose knowledge levels are crucial for successful integration. Alternatively, other standardized language certificates can also be recognized, but these must meet certain current requirements, as shown bamf.de is explained.

Proof of German language skills is not only important for migrant applicants, but is also taken into account when obtaining a settlement permit. However, forgeries of such certificates are increasing; The BAMF offers support and advice to check the authenticity of certificates.

Language acquisition and integration opportunities

Acquiring German language skills is a complex process in which several factors play a role, as the DIW points out. Efficiency, motivation and learning opportunities are crucial. Younger people often learn faster, while refugees may have their ability to learn impaired by traumatic experiences. For many, language acquisition represents a hurdle, especially if there is uncertainty about residence status or there is no access to integration programs. However, language courses, which are often used, can help to improve German skills, which contributes significantly to integration into society, as well diw.de is emphasized.