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Workers

Australia Updates English Test Requirements for Skills in Demand Visa

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Australian government has announced plans to update the English language test requirements for the Skills in Demand Visa, a temporary visa that allows foreign workers to live and work in the country for up to four years. The changes are set to take effect on September 13, 2025, and will give visa applicants more flexibility and test options. The new requirements will also ensure uniform scoring across test providers. The updated rules will align with the Vocational level of English proficiency outlined in the Migration Instrument 2025.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Australian government will introduce changes to the English language test requirements for the Skills in Demand Visa (SID) starting on September 13, 2025.
  • The modifications will give visa applicants greater flexibility and test options by ensuring uniform scoring across test providers.
  • Three new tests will be available to visa applicants to meet the Skills in Demand Visa English requirements.
  • Existing tests and score requirements will also change, and visa applicants must take a test that is valid for SID visa purposes and achieve the required test results, based on the date they take their test.
  • Cambridge C1 Advanced Tests taken on or after September 13, 2025, will no longer be accepted for SID visa purposes. Those who have booked a test with this provider must take their test before this date.
  • Tests taken before September 13, 2025, will maintain a 3-year validity period for SID visa purposes.

Statistics:

  • The Skills in Demand Visa is a temporary visa that allows an Australian employer to sponsor a suitably skilled foreign worker for a stay of up to four years.
  • The visa requires primary applicants to demonstrate that they meet certain minimum standards of English language proficiency.
  • The new changes will affect visa applicants who take their tests on or after September 13, 2025.
  • Three new tests will be available to meet the Skills in Demand Visa English requirements.

Sources:

  • IE Online Media Services Pvt. Ltd.
  • Contify.com

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