| Skills in Demand (482) | At least IELTS 5.0 overall, or the equivalent, with minimum component scores. |
|---|---|
| Employer Nomination Scheme (186) | Competent English: IELTS 6 in each component, or the equivalent. |
| Regional employer (494) | Competent English. |
| Skilled 189, 190 and 491 | Competent English. Proficient (IELTS 7) and superior (IELTS 8) earn points. |
| Temporary Graduate (485) | IELTS 6.5 overall with 5.5 in each component, or the equivalent, from a test taken within 1 year. |
| Student (500) | Usually IELTS 6.0 overall, or less if packaged with an English course. |
| Partner (820/801, 309/100) | No test for the main applicant. Adult family members may need functional English or pay a second charge. |
| Parent visas | Functional English for secondary applicants, or pay a second charge. |
| Visitor (600) | No English requirement. |
The English levels
- Functional: IELTS average of 4.5, or a qualifying course of study.
- Vocational: IELTS 5 in each component.
- Competent: IELTS 6 in each component.
- Proficient: IELTS 7 in each component.
- Superior: IELTS 8 in each component.
Accepted tests
Home Affairs accepts IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge C1 Advanced, OET and other tests it approves. Each test has its own score table. We can confirm the right test and score for your visa before you book.
Frequently asked questions
How long is my English test valid?
For most visas, the test must be taken within 3 years before you apply. For the 485, it must be taken within 1 year before you apply.
I hold a UK passport. Do I need a test?
Usually not. Holders of passports from the UK, US, Canada, New Zealand and the Republic of Ireland are generally treated as having competent English.
What if my family member cannot meet functional English?
For many visas, they can pay a second instalment of the visa application charge instead. See the fees page for current amounts.
Official sources
Updated October 2026. Visa rules, fees and processing times change often, so always check the official sources before you act.