Windows 11 makes it easy to type in multiple languages and use special characters by adding an international keyboard layout. Whether you’re learning a new language, writing emails in multiple scripts, or simply need accented letters, setting up an international keyboard is straightforward.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to get international keyboard on Windows 11, step by step — so you can type seamlessly in any language.
Key Takeaways
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Windows 11 allows you to install and switch between multiple keyboard layouts.
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The US-International keyboard lets you type accented letters (é, ñ, ü, ç, etc.) with simple shortcuts.
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You can add international keyboards via Settings > Time & language > Language & region.
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Switching keyboards is as easy as pressing Windows + Spacebar.
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Useful for students, travelers, and professionals working with different languages.
Why Use an International Keyboard in Windows 11?
Here are some common reasons people install it:
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Typing accented characters without copy-pasting from character maps.
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Communicating in multiple languages (Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, etc.).
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International work or study requiring multilingual writing.
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Convenience — type symbols like € or ñ with shortcuts instead of inserting them manually.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get International Keyboard on Windows 11
Step 1: Open Settings
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Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
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Select Time & language from the left-hand menu.
Step 2: Add a New Language or Keyboard
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Click Language & region.
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Under Preferred languages, choose your current language (e.g., English).
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Select Options.
Step 3: Install International Keyboard Layout
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Under Keyboards, click Add a keyboard.
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From the list, select United States-International (or another international layout, such as Canadian Multilingual or UK International).
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The new layout is now installed.
Step 4: Switch Between Keyboards
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Press Windows + Spacebar to toggle between your installed keyboards.
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You can also click the language icon in the taskbar and select the international keyboard.
How to Type Accented Characters with the US-International Keyboard
Once enabled, typing accents is easy:
| Shortcut | Result |
|---|---|
' + e | é |
' + a | á |
' + o | ó |
~ + n | ñ |
^ + u | û |
\" + o | ö |
Alt Gr + 5 | € |
👉 Example: Press ' (apostrophe) then e → it becomes é.
Alternative Method: Add Language-Specific Keyboard
If you need a specific language keyboard (e.g., Japanese, Arabic, Russian):
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Go to Settings > Time & language > Language & region.
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Click Add a language.
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Search and install the language you want.
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Once installed, repeat the steps above to add its keyboard layout.
Pros and Cons of Using International Keyboard
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to type accented characters | Takes time to learn shortcuts |
| Supports multiple languages | May conflict with standard punctuation habits |
| Works across all apps | Requires switching layouts if you use many languages |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Keyboard Shortcut Conflicts
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Some apps may override shortcuts. Try disabling custom hotkeys in those apps.
2. Wrong Characters Appearing
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Ensure the correct layout (US-International, UK-International, etc.) is selected in the taskbar.
3. Can’t Add a Keyboard
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Check if your Windows is up to date.
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Restart and try again via Settings > Time & language.
Conclusion
Learning how to get international keyboard on Windows 11 is a small change that makes a big difference for multilingual users. In just a few clicks, you can add international layouts, switch easily with a shortcut, and type accented characters smoothly.
Whether you’re writing in Spanish, French, or German — or just need symbols like € or ñ — the international keyboard will save you time and effort.
FAQs About International Keyboard on Windows 11
1. What is the difference between US and US-International keyboards?
The US-International layout lets you type accented characters using simple key combinations, while the standard US layout doesn’t.
2. Can I use multiple international keyboards at once?
Yes. You can install and switch between as many layouts as you like.
3. Does switching to an international keyboard change my physical keyboard?
No. It only changes how Windows interprets your key presses.
4. Can I remove the international keyboard later?
Yes. Go to Settings > Time & language > Language & region > Options, and click Remove under Keyboards.
5. Do I need to restart my PC after adding an international keyboard?
No. The keyboard layout is available immediately after installation.