ENGLISH LANGUAGE CHANGES FOR 457 VISAS

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) results of five on each band are now required for the Subclass 457 visas.

This means that applicants will be required to sit the ‘general training’ test and obtain a five or higher in each element of the test such as writing, reading, listening, and speaking.  Some applicants will be required to take the academic test – if their registration or industry or licensing body stipulates this.  There is no longer any occupation based exemptions from the English language requirements.

This requirement also includes all undecided visa applications as of 1 July 2013.  There have been no transitional arrangements in place or any merit for cases lodged before the changes came into effect on 1 July 2013.

The English language requirements for a skilled migrant worker may be exempted if the employer can offer a salary of AUD 96,400 or above.

Alternatively, if you need to prepare for an IELTS test go to http://takeielts.britishcouncil.org where you can obtain free tests and preparation tips.