It depends on the program and the best bet is to reach out and check about the language/competency requirements.

The program I attended required most students to have completed a two year course of study or equivalent for two languages. You could test out of this requirement by being fluent or having some obvious credential, or by taking an exam which amounted to translating a certain amount of text within a set time. Essentially they wanted to establish that you had enough basic ability that you could perform basic research in the language if called upon. There were also occasional exceptions made, especially for people focused on particular niches that really only required one specific language in addition to English.

Having language competency can be a compelling part of your application to do a PhD. If the department knows you already have that requirement satisfied then that’s one less barrier between you and successful completion.

If you don’t have any languages, I wouldn’t say you’re out of luck, but, as always, it’s worth contacting departments, especially people you might want as a PhD advisor, before you even apply so they can advocate for you. Having someone who already wants to work with you can really help get your application shifted to the top of the pile.

I had one useful language down when I entered my program and then had to take coursework for two years to wrap up another (though I did a few extra years to work on competency since it was something I really needed/wanted).

Again, checking with the department as a prospective student would be a great move and they can likely give you more specifics or direct you to a place where you can find out more.