If you’re applying for an Australian visa, understanding the latest changes to the English Language Test for visa requirements is crucial. The Department of Home Affairs has recently updated the list of approved English language tests and introduced new guidelines to enhance fairness, accessibility, and consistency in the visa process.
These changes came into effect from 7 August 2025, and further updates relating to the Skills in Demand (SID) visa (subclass 482) came into effect from 13 September 2025.
Below is a summary of what you need to know to ensure your visa application meets the latest English proficiency standards.
Why English Language Testing Is Required
English proficiency is a critical requirement for many Australian visas. It helps ensure that migrants are able to successfully live, work and integrate into Australian society, while also enabling the government to manage immigration risks effectively.
Applicants must demonstrate their English language ability by taking an approved English language test for visa purposes. These tests must be taken at a secure, in-person test centre, either in paper-based or computer-based formats. Online or at-home English tests are not accepted.
Key Changes from 7 August 2025
| Area | Before 7 August 2025 | From 7 August 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Number of accepted tests | 5 accepted tests | 9 accepted tests |
| Accepted tests | Cambridge English (CAE)(also known as C1 Advanced) | Cambridge C1 Advanced Test |
| International English Language Testing system (IELTS), including One Skill Retake(OSR) | Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program General (CELPIP General) | |
| Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) | International English Language Testing System Academic (IELTS Academic), including OSR | |
| Occupational English Test (OET) | International English Language Testing System General Training (IELTS General Training), including OSR | |
| Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT) | LANGUAGECERT Academic Test | |
| Michigan English Test (MET), including Single Section Retake (SSR) | ||
| Occupational English Test (OET) | ||
| Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) | ||
| Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-Based Test (TOEFL Ibt) |
Online/At-Home Test Formats Not Accepted
The department does not accept online, remote-proctored or at-home English tests, including:
- CELPIP Online
- IELTS Online
- LANGUAGECERT Academic Online
- MET Digital (taken at-home)
- OET@Home
- TOEFL iBT – Home Edition
Important: Tests taken on or before 6 August 2025 remain valid until 6 August 2028, subject to visa subclass requirements.
Purpose of the 2025 Changes
The Department’s updates aim to:
- Align scoring standards across different English test providers
- Increase flexibility and test availability for visa applicants
- Enhance test accessibility without compromising integrity
What You Need to Know When Applying for a Visa
If your visa subclass requires proof of English language ability, you must:
- Take a test that is approved for your visa subclass
- Achieve the minimum required score, based on the test type and date
- Ensure the test is taken in person at a secure test centre
Changes to English Language Tests for the Skills in Demand 482 Visa
From 13 September 2025 (subject to legislative updates), specific changes apply to the Skills in Demand (SID) visa:
Key Updates:
- Three new English tests approved for SID visa purposes
- Revised score requirements for some tests
- Cambridge C1 Advanced tests taken on or after 13 September 2025 will no longer be accepted
- Results from single skill retake tests may be accepted, if approved by the Department
- No changes to existing English test exemptions
- Tests taken before 13 September 2025 remain valid for three years, in accordance with Migration Instrument 2024
These changes align English proficiency for SID visa applicants with the Vocational English level under Migration Instrument LIN25/016.
Need Help Understanding the New English Test Rules?
Navigating visa requirements can be complex, especially with the new changes to the English Language Test for visa applications. If you are unsure about which test to take or whether your test results meet current requirements, our experienced migration lawyers are here to assist.
We offer:
- Expert advice on approved English Language Tests
- Eligibility assessments based on your visa subclass and test date
- End-to-end visa application support
- Strategic migration advice tailored to your goals
Stay Compliant. Stay Informed.
Don’t let outdated information affect your visa application. Get in touch today to ensure you’re meeting the latest English language test standards and increase your chances of a successful visa outcome.
This article was prepared and written by our immigration lawyer team at Brightstone Migration and reviewed by Mei Guo, Partner Solicitor and Head of Immigration, to provide professional insights and commentary. The content is for reference only and does not constitute specific legal advice.
Last updated: 16/10/2025
