The Migration (English Language Test Requirements for Subclass 482 Visas) Instrument 2025 (LIN 25/082) will take effect on 13 September 2025. It replaces the 2024 version of the instrument, and sets out the English language test requirements for applicants in the Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand) visa, covering both the Specialist Skills stream and the Core Skills stream.
Who is exempt?
Not every applicant needs to sit a test. The following are exempt:
- Passport holders from: Canada, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, UK, USA.
- Applicants who have completed 5 years of full-time study in English.
- Those nominated for work at diplomatic or consular missions (or Taiwan offices).
- Applicants with licensing/registration/membership already granted based on equivalent or higher English standards.
- Applicants transferred within a multinational company, earning at least AUD $96,400 annually.
Approved English Tests (from 13 September 2025)
Applicants (who are not exempt) must sit one of the following approved tests:
- CELPIP General
- IELTS Academic
- IELTS General Training
- LanguageCert Academic Test
- Michigan English Test (MET)
- Occupational English Test (OET)
- Pearson PTE Academic
- TOEFL iBT
Each test has minimum required scores for listening, reading, writing, and speaking components. Results must be no more than 3 years old at the time of application.
Minimum Required Scores (from 13 September 2025)
Here are the new benchmarks applicants must meet:
- CELPIP General – 5 in each band.
- IELTS Academic / General – 5.0 in all four skills.
- LanguageCert Academic – Listening 41, Reading 44, Writing 45, Speaking 54.
- MET – Listening 49, Reading 47, Writing 45, Speaking 38.
- OET – Listening 220, Reading 240, Writing 200, Speaking 270.
- PTE Academic – Listening 33, Reading 36, Writing 29, Speaking 24.
- TOEFL iBT – Listening 8, Reading 8, Writing 9, Speaking 14.
What This Means for Applicants
- Plan your test early: Not all tests are equal; some are being phased out.
- Check exemptions first: You may not need a test at all.
- Mind the date: Sitting your test before or after 13 September 2025 determines which scoring table applies.
- Keep documentation: Always submit official score reports.
Final Word
The Subclass 482 visa remains one of the most widely used temporary work visas in Australia. With LIN 25/082, the English language framework has been tightened and clarified, ensuring applicants demonstrate the required communication skills to work and live in Australia.
Employers and applicants should review the changes now to avoid delays in visa processing after 13 September 2025.
Aurelia Legal can help you map your migration strategy.
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Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice tailored to your circumstances, please consult a registered migration agent or lawyer.