English proficiency is an essential part of many Australian visa applications. From 7 August 2025, the Department of Home Affairs introduced new rules that change the way English ability is assessed. These updates affect the tests you can take, the scores you need, and how long your results are valid.
If you are preparing a visa application, understanding these changes will help you avoid delays and strengthen your case.
Test Validity and Accepted Evidence
The Department has set clear rules on how long test scores are valid:
- Functional English – your test must have been taken within 12 months before you apply.
- Vocational, Competent, Proficient, and Superior English – scores are valid for 3 years before your application.
Some applicants do not need to sit a test at all. If you hold a valid passport from the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, New Zealand, or Ireland, this can usually be accepted as proof of English ability (up to the Competent level). In other cases, qualifications gained in English-speaking education may also be used as evidence.
It’s also important to note that only results from secure test centres are accepted. Online or at-home test versions, such as IELTS Online or TOEFL Home Edition, are not valid for visa purposes. We have summarised the full list of accepted English tests in our previous article, which you may find helpful if you are deciding which test to take.
English Levels and Score Requirements
Visa subclasses require different levels of English. The Department recognises five categories: Functional, Vocational, Competent, Proficient, and Superior English. Each level has specific score requirements. Below is a comparison of IELTS and PTE Academic scores, which are the most common tests taken by applicants:
| ENGLISH LEVEL | IELTS REQUIREMENT | PTE ACADEMIC REQUIREMENT |
| Functional English | Overall average of 4.5 | Overall score of 24 |
| Vocational English | At least 5 in each component | Listening: 33 Reading: 36 Writing: 29 Speaking: 24 |
| Competent English | At least 6 in each component | Listening: 47 Reading: 48 Writing: 51 Speaking: 54 |
| Proficient English | At least 7 in each component | Listening: 58 Reading: 59 Writing: 69 Speaking: 76 |
| Superior English | At least 8 in each component | Listening: 69 Reading: 70 Writing: 85 Speaking: 88 |
What These Changes Mean for You
These updates bring both new opportunities and important considerations:
- Easier access at Functional English –For PTE, the required score has been lowered from 30 to 24, making it more achievable for those applying for visas with this minimum requirement.
- Fairer alignment across tests –New studies showed that PTE results were harder to achieve compared to IELTS. Thresholds have been adjusted so that the standards are more consistent.
- More test options –Alongside IELTS and PTE, other tests such as CELPIP, OET, TOEFL iBT, LanguageCert, and MET are now accepted, giving applicants more choice.
- Strict delivery requirements –Home-based online test versions are not accepted and only tests taken at a secure test centre can be used.
Important Considerations
The updated rules are designed to make English requirements fairer and give applicants more flexibility. However, the system is also stricter when it comes to test validity and where tests are taken. Before you sit an exam, make sure:
- You are booking an approved test.
- Your test date will still be valid at the time of application.
- You know which English level is required for your specific visa.
How SALIA Lawyers & Associates Can Assist
Meeting the English language requirement is a critical part of many visa applications. Even minor errors, such as selecting the wrong test, relying on expired results, or aiming for an incorrect score, can cause costly delays or refusals.
At SALIA Lawyers & Associates, we provide clear, reliable guidance to ensure this does not happen. Our team will advise you on the level of English required for your visa, help you identify the most suitable test, and ensure your evidence meets the Department’s standards. With our support, you can approach your application with confidence and certainty.
Do not leave your future in Australia to chance. Contact us today at lawyers@salia.com.au for tailored, expert advice, and take the next step towards securing your migration outcome.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided is intended as a general guide and should not be relied upon as legal or migration advice. As migration laws and regulations can change, we recommend consulting an Australian Lawyer or Registered Migration Agent for advice tailored to your circumstances.
