485 Visa English requirements

Updated English Requirements for Temporary Graduate Visa Applications

Starting from March 23, 2024, there are new English language requirements for Temporary Graduate visa applications:

1. Increased English Test Scores:
   • The minimum required score has been raised from an overall band score of 6.0 to 6.5 in IELTS (or an equivalent test).
   • You must score at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, speaking, and listening).
2. Exemptions for Specific Passport Holders:
   • If you hold a passport from Hong Kong or are a British National Overseas (BNO), the previous requirement of an overall band score of 6.0 (or equivalent) remains unchanged.
   • For these passport holders, the minimum score for each component stays at 5.0.
3. Reduced Validity Window for English Tests:
   • The validity of English language test results has been shortened from three years to one year.
   • You must provide evidence of your English language proficiency with a test completed within one year of the visa application date.

New English Test Score Requirements (Effective March 23, 2024):

Important Notes:

• These new test score requirements do not apply to Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passport holders. Their required scores remain at an overall band of 6.0 (or equivalent) with at least 5.0 in each component.
• The updated rules will be in effect from March 23, 2024, and will apply to any Temporary Graduate visa applications lodged on or after this date.
• The previous instrument, IMMI 15/062, will still apply to visa applications made before March 23, 2024, but not yet finalized.

English Proficiency Requirements for Visa 485: To qualify for the 485 visa, you must either hold a certain passport or prove your English proficiency by showing evidence that you have obtained the required scores within the last three years.

You can meet the English proficiency requirement by showing that you hold a valid passport from the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, New Zealand, or the Republic of Ireland, or by providing evidence of achieving one of the above scores in the last three years.