English Language Requirements for TSS Visas
To qualify for a Temporary Skill Shortage visa Subclass 482, applicants must meet the English language standards set by the Australian Government. The required test scores depend on the stream under which the visa is lodged.
Short Term Stream English Requirements
Applicants under the Short Term stream must demonstrate functional to competent English through an approved test.
Accepted minimum scores are:
• IELTS Academic or General
Overall score 5.0
Minimum 4.5 in each test component
• OET
Grade B in each component
• TOEFL iBT
Total score 35
Minimum 4 in reading and listening
Minimum 14 in writing
Minimum 12 in speaking
• PTE Academic
Overall score 36
Minimum 30 in each component
• Cambridge C1 Advanced
Overall score 154
Minimum 147 in each component
Medium Term Stream English Requirements
Applicants under the Medium Term stream must meet a higher English standard.
Accepted minimum scores are:
• IELTS Academic or General
Overall score 5.0
Minimum 5.0 in each component
• OET
Grade B in each component
• TOEFL iBT
Total score 35
Minimum 4 in reading and listening
Minimum 14 in writing
Minimum 12 in speaking
• PTE Academic
Overall score 36
Minimum 36 in each component
• Cambridge C1 Advanced
Overall score 154
Minimum 154 in each component
Test Validity Rules
• The English test must be completed in a single sitting
• Results must be less than three years old at the time of application
• Only approved testing providers are accepted
• Results must be submitted at the time of visa application
No exceptions. Partial scores or expired tests are rejected.
English Language Exemptions
You are not required to provide an English test if you meet one of the following conditions:
• Passport holder of the United Kingdom, Ireland, United States, Canada, or New Zealand
• Completed at least five years of full time study in English at secondary or higher education level
• Nominated to work in a diplomatic or government role covered by exemption rules
Exemptions are strictly assessed. Assumptions are not accepted.
Why English Compliance Matters
Failure to meet English requirements leads to:
• Immediate visa refusal
• Loss of nomination approval
• Reapplication costs
• Processing delays
English is not a formality. It is a legal eligibility requirement.
How Visa Aid Helps
Visa Aid ensures:
• Correct test selection based on your visa stream
• Accurate score verification before lodgement
• Exemption assessment where applicable
• Error free submission aligned with current Home Affairs policy
If your English result is borderline, do not guess. Get it assessed properly.
Book a consultation before lodging.
