Australia has introduced significant updates to the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa. As of September 13, 2025, the government has added three new English language tests, updated score requirements, and introduced greater flexibility for test-takers.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s changing and how it affects visa applicants.
New English Tests Added for Subclass 482 Visa
Previously, applicants could only choose from a limited list of English proficiency tests, including:
- IELTS (Academic or General Training)
- PTE Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- Occupational English Test (OET)
- Cambridge C1 Advanced
Now, from September 13, 2025, three additional tests have been added to the list of approved English assessments:
- CELPIP General (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
- LanguageCert Academic
- Michigan English Test (MET)
This change makes it easier for applicants worldwide to choose a test that best suits their location and strengths.
Updated Score Requirements from 13 September 2025
Test Taken Before 13 September 2025
- You must meet previous score requirements.
- All required scores must be achieved in a single sitting.
- No retakes are allowed for individual skills.
Test Taken On or After 13 September 2025
- New minimum score standards apply.
- Single Skill Retake (SSR) is allowed for some tests (e.g., IELTS, MET), meaning you can retake only the section(s) you didn’t pass.
Minimum Scores for Each Test (Effective from 13 Sept 2025)
| Test | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
| CELPIP General | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| IELTS Academic/General | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 41 | 44 | 45 | 54 |
| MET (Michigan English Test) | 49 | 47 | 45 | 38 |
| OET | 220 | 240 | 200 | 270 |
| PTE Academic | 33 | 36 | 29 | 24 |
| TOEFL iBT | 8 | 8 | 9 | 14 |
Who Is Exempt from English Language Testing?
You may not need to take an English test at all if any of the following apply:
- You are a passport holder from Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, the UK, or the USA.
- You have completed at least five years of full-time education in English at the secondary or tertiary level.
- Your Australian occupation requires a license or registration, and you already met the English requirement for that.
- You are working for an overseas business and your annual salary will be at least AUD $96,400.
Labour Agreement Stream
If you’re applying under the Labour Agreement stream, your English requirements are determined by the specific terms of the labour agreement between your employer and the Australian government.
Key Takeaways for Applicants
- More flexibility: You now have eight English test options, giving you more chances to qualify.
- SSR available: After 13 September 2025, some tests allow retakes of individual skills instead of the full exam.
- Choose your test date wisely: If you take the test before 13 September 2025, all scores must be met in a single attempt.
- Check if you’re exempt from testing to save time and money.
Final Thoughts
These changes make the Subclass 482 visa more accessible while ensuring skilled workers still meet the required level of English for the Australian workforce. Whether you’re preparing now or planning to apply later, it’s important to understand how your test date, test choice, and scoring strategy can impact your application success.
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