Which Visa Requires An English Language Test?

Navigating the complexities of visa application requirements demands attention to detail and timeliness. Among the critical prerequisites is the English Test requirement, a fundamental criterion for both permanent and provisional category visas.

These visas require applicants to satisfy a minimum level of Competent English. It is important to adhere to specific timelines outlined by the Department of Home Affairs when providing proof of your English Language competency test results.

Applicants are required to undertake an English language test within the last three (3) year period. Otherwise, applicants who hold an English test beyond the valid duration are no longer acceptable and they are required to retake the English test.

When to submit your English Test?

Visa applicants who are looking to apply for Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) and Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187) – Temporary Residence Transition Stream are required to submit their valid English test results at the same time when lodging their visa application. Failure to do so could lead to a refusal of the visa as the English language is considered a ‘time of application’ requirement.

However, for the work visa applicants listed below, you are to submit your English test result when you receive an invitation to apply:

Since 2019, the point test permits applicants to claim an additional 5 to 10 points depending on the partner’s age, educational qualification/occupation and proficiency in the English language. So for subclasses 189, 190, 489, and 491 applicants who are planning to claim their partner’s points, must present their partner’s English language test result by the time you were invited.

Additionally, it's important to stay updated on the evolving regulations. Notably, laws surrounding Onshore Partner visas are due to change soon, where both the applicant and the sponsor are required to meet the English language requirement.

How Can Agape Henry Crux Help

It is crucial to seek professional advice from immigration law specialists to understand how a Good Behaviour Bond may affect your specific visa situation. At Agape Henry Crux, our Accredited Specialist(s) Immigration Lawyers and our team of immigration lawyers and migration agents are specialised in handling highly complex matters. You can book one of our lawyers or agents to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing us at info@ahclawyers.com.

We speak fluent English, Mandarin, and Malay. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.

This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.