The English language requirement for general skilled migration visas from 1 September is significantly different to the previous requirement.

• The minimum level of English required (threshold English) has been increased
• Threshold English langauge ability must in general be established at time of lodgement
• Additional points are available for people with very good English language skills

In some cases, you may be asked by the Department of Immigration to undertake the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test. The IELTS has four components - speaking, reading, listening and writing. Further information on the IELTS can be obtained from the IELTS website.

Threshold English

The minimum level of English required will depend on which subclass you are applying for, and your occupation:

• Skilled Independent: Minimum is in general competent English, but if you are a tradesperson, you need to show vocational English
• Skilled Sponsored: Minimum is in general competent English, but if you are a tradesperson, you need to show vocational English
• Skilled Regional Sponsored: Minimum is concessional competent English

If you establish threshold English, this will give you 15 points in the General Skilled Points Test.

Proficient English

You can show you have proficient English ability by scoring at least 7 out of 9 on all four components of the IELTS test. This will give you 25 points for English language ability.

Competent English

You can establish a competent level of English by:

1. Obtaining a score of at least 6 out of 9 for all four components of the IELTS test; or
2. Showing your first language is English, and you hold a passport from one of the following 5 countries:
   • Canada
   • New Zealand
   • United Kingdom
   • United States
   • Ireland

Competent English is the required threshold for most general skilled subclasses from 1 September 2007.

Concessional Competent English

You can show you have concessional competent English ability by scoring at least 5.5 average in the 4 components of the IELTS test.

Concessional competent English is the threshold requirement for Skilled - Regional Sponsored visas. With this level of English, you would need to pay the English Education Charge to be granted the visa.

Vocational English

You can show you have vocational English ability by scoring at least 5 out of 9 on all four components of the IELTS test. Vocational English is the threshold requirement for tradespersons applying for general skilled migration from 1 September 2007.

Functional English

You can show you have functional English ability by providing evidence of the following:

1. Scoring at least 4.5 averaged over the four components of the IELTS test.
2. Holding a degree, diploma or trade qualification from an academic institution as a result of at least 2 years full time study where all instruction has been conducted in English
3. Working in an English speaking country for 2 years or more

If your spouse has less than functional English, then you would need to pay the “English Education Charge” to cover English language tuition in applying for general skilled migration.

Applying for migration to Australia can be complex, so we recommend that you contact us to check your likely eligibility for immigration to Australia before you proceed with an application.