Australia: English Language Test Requirement Updated

Updated September 16, 2025: Further to our earlier update, the legislation setting out the English language test requirements for the Skills in Demand (Subclass 482) visa has now been passed. As part of this change, three additional providers have been added to the list of approved English language tests: the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program General (CELPIP General), the LANGUAGECERT Academic Test (LANGUAGECERT Academic), and the Michigan English Test (MET). The required scores for Subclass 482 visa applications will vary depending on whether the test was taken before September 13, 2025, under the prior requirements, or on or after September 13, 2025, under the new requirements. More information can be found here. 

August 14, 2025: The Department of Home Affairs announced updates to the English Language Tests (ELTs) requirement. First, as of August 7, 2025, the number of ELTs accepted for Australian visa purposes has increased from five to nine, and the minimum scores required to demonstrate the relevant English proficiency level for existing ELTs have also been changed. Second, subject to the passage of relevant legislation, effective September 13, 2025, three more tests will be available to meet the English language requirements for the Skills in Demand (SID) visa. Third, subject to the passage of relevant legislation, from September 13, 2025, the test requirements for SID visa purposes will align with the Vocational level of English proficiency, and the Cambridge C1 Advanced Test will no longer be accepted. Tests taken before September 13, 2025, will maintain a three-year validity period for SID visa purposes, and the authorities will continue to accept these tests, provided they meet the applicable validity and test score requirements.      

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].