Mercedes despite the answer of Benz just above the French DGAC jumped on the new ICAO english test as a new mean to make money.
Even if you were a very experienced pilot on International network you have to pay a 100 E fee to get a level 4 at least to continue to work on the same routes.
As far as I know Spanish DGCA gave a level 6 to their pilots as a grand father
law.
France is the kingdom of paperscratchers and hidded corruption.
Nobody has the same right downhere and better being F:.M:. or friend with a chief of something....
Hope this answer to your question.
DDay Gal
NB: I hate these f......... Administration !!!!!!!!