Are you planning to move to Australia and apply for Permanent Residency (PR)?
One of the most important steps in your Australia PR journey is proving your English language proficiency. As of 7 August 2025, the Department of Home Affairs has introduced major changes to English language tests and the minimum scores required for various visa applications.
Whether you are applying for a skilled visa, or other PR pathways, understanding these updates is crucial.
This guide explains the new requirements, English proficiency levels, and what you need to do to stay ahead.
What’s New in English Language Testing for Australia PR
The range of accepted English tests has expanded, giving applicants more flexibility to choose a test that fits their strengths. The approved tests now include:
· IELTS (Academic & General Training), including One Skill Retake
· PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
· TOEFL iBT
· OET (Occupational English Test)
· Cambridge C1 Advanced
· CELPIP General
· LANGUAGECERT Academic
· MET (Michigan English Test)
These changes apply to tests taken on or after 7 August 2025. If you have results from before this date, they may still be valid for your visa application, depending on the test’s standard validity period.
English Proficiency Levels for Australian Visas
English proficiency is classified into five levels:
- Functional English – Basic communication skills, often for partner or family visas.
- Vocational English – Practical working knowledge of English, usually for temporary skilled visas.
- Competent English – Standard level for many skilled visas; the baseline for PR applications.
- Proficient English – Higher level, giving extra points for points-tested skilled visas.
- Superior English – Highest level, maximizing points for skilled visa applications.
Each level has specific score requirements depending on the test type. Make sure to review the minimum scores for listening, reading, writing, and speaking components of each test.
How This Affects Your Visa Application
- More test options: You can choose the test that fits your strengths, whether IELTS, PTE, CELPIP, or others.
- Component-based scoring: Some tests now require minimum scores in each of the four components: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
- Check validity: Make sure your previous test results are valid for your chosen visa.
- Secure test centers only: Remote or online tests are not accepted.
Popular Visa Types You May Apply For
Here are the most common visa pathways for Australian PR:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) – For skilled workers without sponsorship.
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) – Requires state or territory nomination.
- Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) – For regional skilled migration with nomination or sponsorship.
- Employer-Sponsored Visa (Subclass 186) – For applicants with employer support.
You can learn more about your ideal visa type and eligibility on our Australian Visa Consultation Page
Next Steps to Prepare for Your English Test
- Determine your required English level – Based on your visa type.
- Select the right test – Compare IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, CELPIP, or other options.
- Review the new score requirements – Focus on all components of your test.
- Book your test at a secure center – Leave enough time to prepare.
- Consult a migration expert – Our registered agents can guide you to choose the best test and meet visa requirements.
Need Expert Guidance?
Navigating Australian visa rules and English language requirements can be complex. The Australian Visa Office team keeps up-to-date with all policy changes and can help you:
- Choose the right visa type.
- Understand new English test requirements.
- Plan a successful PR application.
Trust only OMARA-registered migration agents for your future.