The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has announced that changes to the English language tests (ELT) for the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) (SID) will begin from September 13, 2025 (subject to the passage of relevant legislation).
Three new tests will be available to visa applicants to meet the SID visa English requirements. Some existing tests and score requirements will also change.
Applicants for a subclass 482 visa must make sure that they:
- take a test that is valid for SID visa purposes
- achieve the required test results, based on the date they take their test.
Tests taken on or after September 13, 2025
DHA will align test requirements for SID visa purposes on or after September 13, 2025 with the Vocational level of English proficiency outlined in the Migration (Specification of Language Tests, Test Scores and Passports) Instrument 2025 (LIN25/016).
There will be no changes to language testing exemptions for the SID visa.
Those who take a test that offers the single skill retake, and that is accepted by the department, may be able use these results for their application.
DHA will no longer accept Cambridge C1 Advanced Tests taken on or after September 13, 2025 for SID visa purposes. Those who have booked a test with this provider must ensure they take their test before this date.
Tests taken before September 13, 2025
Tests taken before September 13, 2025 will maintain a three-year validity period for SID visa purposes. DHA will continue to accept these tests, subject to the validity and test score requirements specified in the Migration (Language Test Requirements for Subclass 482 Visa) Instrument 2024.
Labor agreement stream
Applicants in this stream must have English language skills suitable to perform their nominated occupation. English requirements may be specified in the Labor Agreement between the employer and the Commonwealth.
DHA will publish more detailed information about the new requirements from 13 September 2025 on the Subclass 482 English requirements page.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.