On the 18th of April 2015, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection lowered the English requirements for the temporary work visa (skilled) – subclass 457. Good news for candidates planning to apply for this visa category.
According to the amendment, candidates are now required to obtain a 5.0 overall score on IELTS and a minimum of 4.5 on each band to meet the 457 visa subclass requirements. Changes affect all new applications lodged on or after 18 April 2015.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is the most common English test for migration purposes in Australia, but alternative English tests can be used instead. Below is the complete list of alternative tests and their grade requirements:
IELTS – overall 5 (minimum 4.5 in each component)
TOEFL iBT – overall 36 (minimum 3 in each component )
PTE Academic – overall 36 (minimum 30 in each component)
CAE – overall 154 (minimum 147 in each component) – test taken on or after 1 January 2015 OET – B in each component
It is important to remember that if you are required to hold a registration, licence or membership to perform your occupation then you must have English language proficiency of the specific standard required to be granted that licence, registration or membership. That may require a higher level of English proficiency than specified above.
If you require further information, please contact us at +61 2 9262 4707 or enquiries@migrate2australia.com.au
Australian Landmark Immigration Solutions Team