The Australian Government has implemented Legislative Instrument LIN 25/082, which commenced on 13 September 2025.
This Instrument applies to Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand) visa applications lodged on or after the commencement date.
It specifically applies to applicants in the following streams:
- Specialist Skills stream
- Core Skills stream
- Labour Agreement stream
It does not apply retrospectively—meaning applications submitted before 13 September 2025 will continue to be assessed under the previous English language testing requirements.
Who Is Affected?
These updated English language testing rules apply to Subclass 482 visa applicants in any of the three streams mentioned above, unless the applicant is exempt (e.g., based on nationality (passport), previous study, or certain other criteria defined in migration regulations).
Updated English Language Requirements Under LIN 25/082
To meet the English language requirement, applicants must:
- Take an approved English language test; and
- Achieve the required scores for that test in all relevant components:
- Either in one sitting (on a single test day), or
- Through a re-sit of specific components on a later date, if necessary, to achieve the required scores.
- The original test day (and any re-sit test day) must be no more than 3 years before the day the applicant provides the evidence to the Department of Home Affairs.
This flexible approach allows applicants who fall short on just one or two components to re-sit only those, rather than the entire test.
Approved English Language Tests
Applicants may choose from the following approved English tests:
- CELPIP General (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program – General)
- IELTS Academic
- IELTS General Training
- LANGUAGECERT Academic
- Michigan English Test (MET)
- Occupational English Test (OET)
- PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic)
- TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language – Internet-Based Test)
This expanded list supports applicants by recognising a wider range of reputable test providers.
Test Validity Period
To be accepted:
- Your English language test results (including any re-sit components) must be no more than three years old on the date you submit them as part of your visa application.
Why This Matters: For Employers and Skilled Migrants
These updates to the Subclass 482 visa process are significant because they:
- Introduce a more flexible and inclusive framework for demonstrating English proficiency;
- Recognise a broader list of international tests to suit applicants from diverse backgrounds;
- Align testing expectations with real-world conditions, such as allowing limited re-testing;
- Maintain Australia’s commitment to ensuring English language competency among skilled migrants.
For employers, this can streamline onboarding skilled international workers. For applicants, it offers greater opportunity to meet requirements without the burden of redoing entire tests unnecessarily.
Next Steps for Subclass 482 Visa Applicants
- Review the list of approved tests and check your exemption status.
- Schedule your test well in advance of applying.
- Ensure all results are within the 3-year validity window.
- Keep documentation from both the initial and re-sit test days (if applicable).
Need Australian immigration law & visa assistance?
Contact us today so we can help guide you
Nevett Ford Lawyers Melbourne
Telephone: +61 3 9614 7111
Email: melbourne@nevettford.com.au
Visit our website: www.nevettford.com.au
