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Quick Overview

Competent English is the minimum English level required for many skilled and employer-sponsored visas.

You can prove it by achieving specific scores in tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.

If you do not meet this level, your application may be refused.

Some applicants may be exempt based on passport country.

What Is Competent English for Australian Visas?

Competent English is defined by the Department of Home Affairs as a minimum score in one of several accepted English language tests.

It is most commonly proven via IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge tests. This level confirms your ability to communicate and understand routine English in a migration context. 

Why It Matters

Required for Subclass 189, 190, 491, 482 and many employer-sponsored visas

You must meet this level to pass the Points Test

Failure to submit valid English results leads to refusal

Test results must be valid (not expired)

📊 Comparative Table: Minimum Scores

TestMinimum Scores
IELTS6.0 in each band
PTE Academic50 in each band
TOEFL iBT12 Listening, 13 Reading, 21 Writing, 18 Speaking
Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE)Equivalent DHA threshold
OETB pass in each component
CELPIP GeneralEquivalent DHA threshold (new, Aug 2025)
LanguageCert AcademicEquivalent DHA threshold (new, Aug 2025)
Michigan English Test (MET)Equivalent DHA threshold (new, Aug 2025)

Who It Applies To

Skilled Visa applicants (189, 190, 491)

Graduate and Provisional visa streams

Anyone claiming Points Test for English ability

Certain DAMA visa streams (check region-specific English concessions)

Risks / Exemptions / Errors

Submitting expired test results (older than 3 years)

Not meeting all band minimums (e.g. 6.0 in Writing but 5.5 in Speaking = fail)

Assuming exemption when not eligible

Claiming points without valid evidence

❓ competent English Frequently Ask Questions

IELTS 6.0 in each band, PTE 50 each, or equivalent in TOEFL, Cambridge, or OET. 

Most skilled visas (189, 190, 491) and employer-sponsored (482, 186) require it. 

Yes. Even one score below the threshold results in ineligibility.

No. Test results must be issued within the last 3 years. 

Citizens of UK, USA, Canada, Ireland, and NZ are often exempt. 

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Disclaimer
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not guarantee visa approval. All visa applications are subject to the discretion of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. For personalized guidance, please contact a registered migration agent at Visa Advisor.