English Requirements by Visa Subclass: What You Need for Each Visa Type

Skilled visas: 189, 190, 491

These three skilled visa subclasses use the same English requirement and points structure:

Minimum requirement: Competent English
- IELTS 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking)
- PTE Academic: Listening 47, Reading 48, Writing 51, Speaking 54
- TOEFL iBT: Listening 16, Reading 16, Writing 19, Speaking 19
- OET Grade B or higher

Proficient English (10 points):
- IELTS 7.0 in each component
- PTE and TOEFL: Check the current Home Affairs points table for exact scores

Superior English (20 points):
- IELTS 8.0 in each component
- PTE and TOEFL: Check the current Home Affairs points table for exact scores

These three subclasses (189, 190, 491) are all points-tested visas, so your English score directly affects your chances of selection. Many applicants target Proficient English (10 points) as a realistic goal.

Skilled Independent (189)

Skilled Independent visas require Competent English as the baseline. Proficient and Superior English are optional but add valuable points in the SkillSelect ranking.

Skilled Nominated (190)

Skilled Nominated visas (sponsored by a state or territory) have the same English requirement as 189. You must meet Competent English to be eligible, and you can claim additional points for Proficient or Superior.

Skilled Work Regional (491)

Skilled Work Regional visas (for applicants willing to work in specified regions) also require Competent English as the baseline, with points available for higher levels.

Skills in Demand (482)

Skills in Demand visa (482) English requirement varies by stream:

- Specialist Stream, International Mobility Stream, Investment Linked Stream: The requirement is competent-equivalent English, but the exact level may differ from other skilled visas. Check the current Home Affairs page for your specific stream.
- Overseas Temporary Movement Stream: English requirements may be lower or not applicable — confirm per stream.

The 482 does not use a points test, so English is a requirement for eligibility, not a scoring factor.

Graduate (485)

The Graduate visa (485) requires Competent English as an eligibility requirement. This visa is for recent international graduates who have studied in Australia and wish to work temporarily after graduation. English evidence (test scores or university attendance) is required, but the exact threshold should be confirmed with Home Affairs.

Student visa (500)

Student visas (500) use a different English framework than skilled visas:

- English evidence is required, but the requirement is set by the educational institution (the university or college) and Home Affairs' English language assessment
- You may provide evidence through a Pearson Test of English (PTE), TOEFL iBT, Cambridge English exams, or by holding a degree from an English-speaking country
- The required level depends on your course and institution — a master's degree may have different requirements than a foundation course
- This framework is separate from the points test and uses different benchmarks

Check with your intended Australian institution for the specific English requirement for your course.

Sponsor visas: 482, 494, others

If you are being sponsored by an employer (482, 494), the sponsor may have their own English language requirements in addition to (or instead of) the visa subclass requirement. Always check with your sponsor for their specific English expectations.

Do all skilled visas require the same English level?

Most skilled visas (189, 190, 491) require Competent English as the baseline. Some subclasses (482, 485) have specific requirements that may vary. Always check your visa subclass page on Home Affairs for the exact requirement.

Can I use the same English test result for different visa subclasses?

Generally yes, if your test is current (valid for up to 3 years from the test date). However, confirm that your test is on Home Affairs' approved tests list and that your results meet the requirement for your specific visa subclass.

Does every visa subclass offer points for Proficient or Superior English?

No. Student visas (500) and some temporary visas do not use points. Skilled visas (189, 190, 491) and many others offer optional points for Proficient and Superior English. Check your visa subclass.

My visa requires Competent English but I want 20 points. Do I need to sit the test twice?

No. One test result that achieves Superior English (8.0 in IELTS, etc.) meets both the Competent requirement and earns the 20 points. You claim the points explicitly in your SkillSelect application.

Does the English requirement change by occupation?

For skilled visas (189, 190, 491), the English requirement is the same across all occupations. Some visa subclasses (like 482 or student visas) may have occupation-specific or institution-specific requirements.

What if my visa subclass doesn't specify an English requirement?

Some visas may not have a formal English requirement if the visa rules assume English proficiency (e.g. some short-term temporary visas). Always check the Home Affairs page for your visa subclass and contact Home Affairs if the requirement is unclear.

Is one month enough time to reach Proficient English from Competent?

It depends on your current English level and study intensity. Some applicants achieve Proficient with focused preparation; others need several months or multiple attempts. Consider your own learning pace and, if necessary, engage an English coaching service.