Login
Sign up
Login
Sign up

Australia Employer-Sponsored Visas with English Requirements

Thinking About an Employer-Sponsored Visa? Let’s Talk English Requirements 

So, you’ve got a job offer in Australia—exciting! But before packing your bags, there’s one important step: meeting the English language requirement. 

Every employer-sponsored visa, including the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482), Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494), and Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186), comes with specific English standards. 

This guide breaks it all down—what score you need, which tests are accepted, and how to meet the requirement with confidence. 

English Language Requirements for Employer-Sponsored Visas

Australia requires proof of English proficiency to ensure effective workplace communication. Here’s what each visa type requires: 

Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482) 

  • Minimum IELTS 5.0 overall, with no band below 4.5 (or equivalent in PTE, TOEFL, or OET). 
  • Some skilled trade roles may require higher scores depending on licensing requirements. 

Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494) 

  • IELTS 6.0 in all bands (or equivalent). 

Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186) & Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Visa (Subclass 187) 

  • Requires Competent English — IELTS 6.0 in all bands (or equivalent). 

Accepted English Tests for an Australian Work Visa

Australia’s Department of Home Affairs accepts multiple tests, allowing applicants to choose the most suitable option: 

  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System) – The most commonly used test. 
  • PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English) – A fast-results option. 
  • TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language) – An online-based test. 
  • OET (Occupational English Test) – Designed for healthcare professionals. 
  • Cambridge C1 Advanced – A valid option for those who have already taken it. 

English Test Exemptions for Employer-Sponsored Visas

Some applicants may be exempt from the English test. Exemptions apply to those who: 

  • Hold a passport from an English-speaking country (UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland). 
  • Have studied in English for at least five years in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, USA, or Ireland. 
  • Qualify under specific employer exemptions, though these are limited. 

How to Meet the English Requirement Without Stress

Preparing for the test doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Follow these steps to improve your chances of success: 

  • Understand the requirements – Different visas require different scores, so focus on your specific category. 
  • Practice regularly – Use official test preparation materials to get familiar with the format. 
  • Take a short English course if needed – A structured program can strengthen weak areas and boost confidence. 
  • Book the test at the right time – Scores remain valid for up to three years, so plan accordingly. 

Meeting the English language requirement is an important step toward securing an employer-sponsored visa. Understanding the specific test scores needed for different visa types can help you plan ahead and improve your chances of approval. With the right preparation, you’ll be one step closer to building your career in Australia.

Need to send money home or access financial support? Get Started Now! 

Related Post

  • Company and team
  • Help and support
  • Learn More
  • Follow us
Icon-facebook Instagram Twitter