Mark wrote:
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| In Australia for example learning English is not a condition of citizenship, it is encouraged but nobody forces the issue. Free interpretation and translation services are provided to migrants for the first 2 years should they need it when dealing with government departments or other situations, after that - they are on their own. In other words, if you don't want to assimilate or learn the local language that's ok. | |
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I emigrated to Australia from a non-English speaking country and when applying for citizenship in the mid 90's, I did have to prove that I had sufficient English skills. Perhaps this has changed since then, but I was definitely tested on my English. Never did become an Aussie but that's another story.
Maybe I'm in a different kind of situation but have found many friends and colleagues will switch to English with me, in order for them to practice their English skills. This was great initially but I'm now really wanting (and needing) some practive with my German - changing their habits is proving rather difficult!!