Australia has introduced updated ruled for the English language requirements in visa applications, effective from 7 August 2025. These changes replace the previous 2015 framework and implement a high-standard English proficiency requirement.

Few major changes in this announcement include:

• Introduction of New English Language Tests (LanguageCert, CELPIP, etc.)
• Changes in Minimum Scoring Requirements for different proficiency levels (Vocational, Competent, Proficient, Superior)
• Countries with passports exempt from language testing.

Starting from the first change, following is now the complete list of English languages tests accepted by the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA) for immigration visa application. The list added new tests including CELPIP General, LanguageCert Academic & MET:

• IELTS (Academic & General Training)
• OET (Occupational English Test)
• TOEFL iBT
• PTE Academic
• Cambridge C1 Advanced
• CELPIP General
• LANGUAGECERT Academic
• MET (Michigan English Test – excluded for Superior English)

Previous IELTS (Academic & General Training), PTE (Academic) and TOEFL (iBT) were three main tests being opted for immigration purposes in Australia. Now, PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT have also seen a change in the minimum scoring requirements.

English Levels	Modules	IELTS (A & GT)	PTE Academic	TOEFL iBT
Vocational English	Listening	5	33	8
	Reading	5	36	8
	Writing	5	29	9
	Speaking	5	24	14
Competent English	Listening	6	47	16
	Reading	6	48	16
	Writing	6	51	19
	Speaking	6	54	19
Proficient English	Listening	7	58	22
	Reading	7	59	22
	Writing	7	69	26
	Speaking	7	76	24
Superior English	Listening	8	69	26
	Reading	8	70	27
	Writing	8	85	30
	Speaking	8	88	28

Moreover, following passports are exempted from English language requirement:

1. Canada
2. New Zealand
3. Republic of Ireland
4. United Kingdom
5. United States of America