Change in Scores required for English language points and other skilled visas from 7th August 2025

The below changes applies to applications lodged from 7th August 2025 onward under the 2025 Legislative Instrument.

What If Your EOI or Existing Score Falls Short?

EOIs (Expression of Interest) already lodged but not yet invited before 7th August 2025 will not be affected with the new changes.

However, if your current English test is set to expire, you need to retake the English test and your English test scores now fall below the new minimum criteria.

Points for Skilled Migration (subclass 189, 190, 491) stream

Previous requirement

• 10-point skilled English: IELTS 7.0 / PTE 65 (on each band)

• 20‑point skilled English: IELTS 8.0 / PTE 79  (on each band)

New requirement

• 10-point skilled English: IELTS 7.0 (on each band) / PTE  58(L), 59(R), 69(W), 76(S)

• 20‑point skilled English: IELTS 8.0 (on each band) / PTE  69(L), 70(R), 85(W), 88(S)

These changes raise the bar for English proficiency across major Australian visa pathways, reflecting a government focus on better academic and workplace communication standards. If you're applying in or after 7 August 2025, secure the required scores early and make sure your EOI is updated to stay competitive.