English language requirements updated

The Department of Home Affairs has introduced a new legislative instrument that updates the English language requirements for certain visa applicants.

The most common visa types affected by this change are SC 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa, SC 494 Regional Employer Sponsored visa and Skilled visa subclasses SC 189, 190 and 491.

From 7 August 2025, applicants now have more options to demonstrate their English proficiency. In addition to the existing tests, the following are now accepted:

• Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program General (CELPIP General)

• LANGUAGECERT Academic Test (LANGUAGECERT Academic)

• Michigan English Test (MET), including Single Section Retake (SSR)

Further to that, the scores required from one of the most popular tests - PTE Pearsons test of English Academic have changed, and if you sat the test ON or AFTER 07 August 2025, the following are scores needed for the particular English levels:

• functional English - overal score min 24

• vocational English - min 33 listening, 36 reading, 29 writing, 24 speaking

• competent English - min 47 listening, 48 reading, 51 writing, 54 speaking

• proficient English - min 58 listening, 59 reading, 69 writing, 76 speaking

• superior English - min 69 listening, 70 reading, 85 writing, 88 speaking

What About the SC 482 Skills in Demand Visa?

The SC 482 visa requirements are also expected to change on 13 September 2025, subject to the passage of legislation. These updates will align with the changes outlined above.

This is especially positive news for applicants, as the PTE requirements for Vocational English are now lower than before, making the 482 visa more accessible for those who previously found the scores difficult to achieve.

IMPORTANT - If you completed your English test before 7 August 2025 (or before 13 September 2025 for SC 482 visas), the old score requirements still apply for the full three-year validity of your result.

Need Advice?

Visa requirements can be complex and every case is different. For tailored guidance on how these changes affect you, book a consultation with our Registered Migration Agent today.