New Changes to English Language Test Requirements for Australian Permanent Residence Applicants

Latest Updates to English Language Test Requirements for Australian Migration Visas

The Australian Department of Home Affairs has introduced important changes to English language test requirements for applicants for migration visas, including pathways that may lead to permanent residence. These changes are intended to align language testing standards and support a more consistent assessment of applicants’ English language proficiency.

Key Changes to Accepted English Language Tests

From 7 August 2025, the list of English language tests accepted by the Australian Department of Home Affairs, as well as the minimum scores required for different English language levels, was updated.

Applicants for skilled visas and other migration pathways should ensure that their chosen test and results meet the current requirements.

Under the updated rules, the following tests may be accepted as evidence of English language proficiency:

• IELTS (Academic and General Training)
• PTE Academic
• TOEFL iBT
• Cambridge C1 Advanced
• OET for certain healthcare applicants
• Other approved tests, such as CELPIP General, LANGUAGECERT Academic, and the Michigan English Test (MET), under specific conditions

Changes to PTE Academic Score Requirements

One of the most significant changes relates to the PTE Academic test.

Under the updated system, applicants may need to meet the required minimum score in each of the following four language skills:

• Listening
• Reading
• Writing
• Speaking

For example, applicants seeking to demonstrate Competent English must achieve the minimum scores specified for the required language skills.

How These Changes May Affect Permanent Residence Applicants

These changes may be particularly relevant to applicants for skilled visa pathways such as:

• Skilled Independent Visa – Subclass 189
• Skilled Nominated Visa – Subclass 190
• Skilled Work Regional Visa – Subclass 491
• Other migration pathways that require applicants to demonstrate a specified level of English language proficiency

Applicants who require higher English language levels, such as Proficient English or Superior English, to obtain additional migration points should review the current scoring requirements before taking a test.

A score that may have been sufficient under previous requirements may not necessarily meet the updated requirements.

Validity of Previous Test Results

People who completed an English language test before the new changes took effect may still be able to use their test results. However, this depends on the visa type, the date of the test, and the applicable validity period.

The Australian Department of Home Affairs has indicated that some previous test results may continue to be accepted for a specified period, depending on the circumstances.

Important Advice for Migration Applicants

In light of these changes, applicants should consider the following before submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) or lodging a visa application:

✔ Check the English language requirement for the specific visa pathway
✔ Confirm that the language test result is valid and accepted
✔ Choose the most suitable test if a higher English level is required for additional migration points
✔ Review the circumstances of the application with an appropriately qualified and registered migration professional before proceeding

The SilkVisa Australia team provides professional guidance on English language requirements, migration points, and suitable Australian migration pathways for eligible applicants.

SilkVisa Australia – Registered Migration Agent (MARA)
Professional migration services and guidance for Australia