Important Update: New English Language Ability Requirements for Australian Visas Effective August 2025

Effective 7 August 2025, the Australian Department of Home Affairs is implementing new English language requirements for visa applicants. These updates are designed to ensure that all applicants possess the necessary communication skills for working and living in Australia. Whether you’re applying for a Temporary Graduate Visa, an Employer-Sponsored Visa, or another skilled migration pathway, these changes will directly impact your application process.

 

What’s Changing?

The key change is the introduction of clearly defined English proficiency levels and the corresponding minimum test scores required for different visa categories. Applicants must now meet specific benchmarks in four core language components: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. These new requirements will help ensure applicants are equipped with the language skills needed for success in the Australian workforce and society.

 

English Proficiency Levels

Here are the updated language proficiency levels, with the corresponding minimum scores required for the most accepted English language tests:

Proficiency Level	Test	Minimum Score
1. Superior English	IELTS Academic/General Training	8.0 in each component
	PTE Academic	79 in each component
	TOEFL iBT	26 in each component
	CELPIP General	10 in each component
	Cambridge C1 Advanced	186 in each component
	MET	390 in each component
	OET	89 in each component
	LanguageCert Academic	80 in each component
2. Proficient English	IELTS Academic/General Training	7.0 in each component
	PTE Academic	65 in each component
	TOEFL iBT	24 Listening, 24 Reading, 27 Writing, 23 Speaking
	CELPIP General	9 in each component
	Cambridge C1 Advanced	175 in each component
	MET	350 in each component
	OET	82 in each component
	LanguageCert Academic	67 in each component
3. Competent English	IELTS Academic/General Training	6.0 in each component
	PTE Academic	50 in each component
	TOEFL iBT	16 Listening, 16 Reading, 19 Writing, 19 Speaking
	CELPIP General	7 in each component
	Cambridge C1 Advanced	163 in each component
	MET	290 in each component
	OET	70 in each component
	LanguageCert Academic	57 Listening, 60 Reading, 64 Writing, 70 Speaking
4. Vocational English	IELTS Academic/General Training	5.0 in each component
	PTE Academic	36 in each component
	TOEFL iBT	41 Listening, 44 Reading, 45 Writing, 54 Speaking
	CELPIP General	5 in each component
	Cambridge C1 Advanced	154 in each component
	MET	220 in each component
	OET	54 in each component
	LanguageCert Academic	41 Listening, 44 Reading, 45 Writing, 45 Speaking
5. Functional English	IELTS Academic/General Training	Average band score of 4.5
	PTE Academic	Overall score of 38
	TOEFL iBT	Overall score of 1020
	CELPIP General	Overall score of 5
	Cambridge C1 Advanced	Overall score of 147
	MET	Overall score of 200
	OET	Not accepted
	LanguageCert Academic	Overall score of 38

 

Why Does This Matter?

These updates reflect a growing emphasis on English language proficiency for applicants planning to live and work in Australia. Whether you’re applying for a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), an Employer-Sponsored Visa (subclass 482, 186), or other skilled migration programs, meeting the updated language requirements is crucial for your application’s success.

For applicants who have already taken English language tests, it’s important to verify whether your existing scores meet the new criteria. For those testing after 7 August 2025, be sure to review the new benchmarks and prepare accordingly.

 

What Should You Do Next?

Here’s what you need to do to ensure your application is aligned with the new language requirements:

1. Review the Updated Criteria: Visit the Department of Home Affairs website to check the updated English language requirements for your specific visa subclass.
2. Take an Accepted Test: If you haven’t already taken a test, choose one from the approved list (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE) and aim to meet or exceed the required score for your visa type.
3. Consider Retaking the Test: If your current scores fall short of the updated requirements, plan to retake the test.
4. Stay Informed: Keep track of any further changes to the English language requirements on the Department of Home Affairs website.

 

Final Thoughts

The new English language requirements represent a significant update for all applicants. By preparing early and meeting these new criteria, you will increase your chances of success in securing your Australian visa. Make sure to check the specific requirements for your visa subclass and take the necessary steps to meet the updated proficiency levels.

Need help with your visa application? At NB Migration Law, we are experts in Australian migration law and can guide you through every step of the process. We offer a free 20-minute consultation to assess your eligibility and provide tailored advice. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and ensure your application is on track for success!