English Requirements

English Requirements for Australian Visas

Understand the English language requirements for Australian visas, including IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, OET and Cambridge English tests.

English Requirements by Australian Visa Type

English language requirements can vary depending on your Australian visa subclass and individual circumstances. The table below provides an overview of commonly required English levels, IELTS Academic and PTE Academic scores, and the validity period for selected visa pathways. Always check the latest requirements for your specific visa before booking an English test or submitting an application.

Visa	Level	IELTS Academic	PTE Academic	Validity (test taken within)
Subclass 186 ENS	Competent	6.0 Each	L47/R48/W51/S54	3 Years – Before Application
Subclass 482 SID	Vocational	5.0 Each	L33/R36/W29/S24	3 Years – Before Application
Subclass 494 SESR	Competent	6.0 Each	L47/R48/W51/S54	3 Years – Before Application
Subclass 189/190/491	Competent (min)	6.0 Each	L47/R48/W51/S54	3 Years – Before Application
Subclass 485 TR	485 Rule	Overall 6.5 + 5.5 Each	Overall 55 + L40/R42/W41/S39	1 Year – Before Application
Subclass 500 Student	Min Entry	Overall 6.0	Overall 47	2 Years Before Application (Or Before Decision If Result Provided Later)
Subclass 500 +10W Elicos / Foundation / Pathway	Packaged	Overall 5.5	Overall 39	2 Years Before Application (Or Before Decision If Result Provided Later)
Subclass 500 +20W ELICOS	Packaged+	Overall 5.0	Overall 31	2 Years Before Application (Or Before Decision If Result Provided Later)

Disclaimer: This information is for general information only, not migration advice, and requirements may change at any time.

English Requirements for Australian Migration

English requirements vary depending on the visa subclass, the applicant’s circumstances and the migration pathway being used. Some visas require a specific minimum English level, others require evidence for points-tested applications, and some applicants may qualify for an exemption altogether. At Abbasi Migration, we help clients understand which requirements apply to their situation and how to prepare the right evidence for their application.
For the latest official requirements, applicants should also refer to the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs.

Which English Test Is Right for You?

The most suitable test depends on your visa pathway, your circumstances and your personal strengths as a test-taker.

Planning to study in Australia?

Student visas generally require a recognised English test, with the level depending on your course and provider.

Applying for skilled migration?

Points-tested visas reward higher English levels, so your test choice can directly affect your points total.

Applying for an employer-sponsored visa?

Requirements can depend on your occupation, exemptions and the specific sponsored visa subclass.

Applying for a partner visa?

English evidence may affect processing and, in some cases, is linked to bridging visa work rights.

Applying for another visa pathway?

Every pathway has its own rules, exemptions and evidence requirements we'll help you confirm yours.

Need Help Choosing Your English Test?

Get tailored guidance based on your visa pathway and circumstances.

Which English Test Is Right for You?

The most suitable test depends on your visa pathway, your circumstances and your personal strengths as a test-taker.

Student Visa

Most student visa applicants need to provide evidence of English proficiency, with the required level often set by the education provider as well as the Department of Home Affairs. Some applicants may be exempt based on prior study or nationality.

Skilled Visas

Skilled visas such as the Skilled Independent, Skilled Nominated and Skilled Work Regional visas generally require at least Competent English, with Proficient or Superior English contributing additional points to your Expression of Interest.

Employer Sponsored Visas

English requirements for employer-sponsored visas can depend on your nominated occupation, salary and whether an exemption applies. Some healthcare and other occupations may accept OET.

Partner Visas

English evidence isn’t always mandatory for the visa grant itself, but functional English can be relevant to bridging visa work rights and to other elements of the application.

Graduate Visas

Temporary Graduate visa applicants generally need to meet a set English level, with the accepted tests and required scores reviewed periodically by the Department of Home Affairs.

Other Visa Pathways

Visitor, family, parent and other visa subclasses each have their own rules around whether English evidence is required. We can confirm what applies to your specific pathway.

Need Help With Your Australian Visa Requirements?

Understanding English requirements can be confusing. Get professional guidance based on your visa pathway and individual circumstances.