Australia is changing the English language requirements for visas starting August 7, 2025, to make it easier for skilled visa applicants to demonstrate their English proficiency.
Australia requires most visa applicants to prove their proficiency in the English language. However, the rules vary depending on the visa type and the applicant's background.
The government now accepts more types of English tests, giving applicants more choices and flexibility to prove their language skills. The list of accepted English tests has jumped from five to nine.
In addition to well-known tests like IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE Academic, new tests, including CELPIP General, LanguageCert Academic, and the Michigan English Test (MET), are now approved. Now, applicants can pick the test that suits them best.
At the same time, the score requirements have also undergone changes. Instead of just looking at your overall score, officials will check your skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing separately. For instance, if you are going for a visa like the popular Skills in Demand (Subclass 482), you now know exactly what scores to aim for across these sections.
If someone completed their English test before August 7, 2025, there's no need to worry. Those results remain valid for visa applications for up to three years, depending on the visa type. And if applicants are from certain English-speaking countries, such as the UK, the USA, Canada, New Zealand, and Ireland, they are generally exempt from testing altogether, making their path even simpler.
There are specific visa categories that require applicants to demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
However, not everyone has to meet these requirements equally—citizens of recognized English-speaking countries or those with previous education in English may be exempt. The validity of the test scores is for a period of two years. After this period, you have to retake the test if you are applying for a visa.
If you fail to meet the English language requirement, it can delay or even derail your Australian visa application.
Most visa applicants must demonstrate their English proficiency with one of these approved tests:
So, if you plan to live, work, or study in Australia, make sure that you meet the English language requirements under the latest Australian immigration laws.
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