English Language Test Score Updates for Subclass 482 Visa in 2025
From 13 September 2025, the Department of Home Affairs will implement updated English language test requirements for the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, under both the Specialist Skills and Core Skills streams.
These changes affect approved English test providers, test formats, minimum score thresholds, and introduce greater flexibility for applicants. If you're applying for a 482 visa, it's essential to understand which version of the rules applies based on when you took your English test.
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Key Takeaways
New English test providers approved for Subclass 482 visa (CELPIP, MET, LANGUAGECERT)
Score thresholds updated for tests taken on or after 13 September 2025
Re-sitting one test component now allowed (e.g. IELTS One Skill Retake)
Tests are valid for 3 years from the original test date
Updated English Language Test Requirements for 482 Visa
The Migration (English Language Test Requirements for Subclass 482 Visas) Instrument 2025 (LIN 25/082) replaces the previous instrument LIN 24/099 and includes:
New approved English language tests
Clarified test names (e.g., IELTS Academic or General, C1 Advanced)
Revised score thresholds
Introduction of component retake flexibility for certain tests
The instrument applies to Subclass 482 visa applications lodged on or after 13 September 2025.
You Can Now Re-sit One Test Component – A Game Changer
One of the most significant and welcome changes in the updated instrument is the removal of the “single sitting” requirement for English tests taken on or after 13 September 2025.
What’s new?
Under the previous rules (LIN 24/099), visa applicants had to complete all four test components (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) in one sitting and achieve the required scores in that single attempt.
This often meant that even if you fell short in just one skill, you had to retake the entire test — a frustrating, costly, and time-consuming process.
The good news?
From 13 September 2025, the new rules (LIN 25/082) allow you to re-sit just the component you didn’t pass, provided you:
Took the test on or after 13 September 2025, and
Used a provider that offers single skill retakes.
✅ This means:
IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR) is now accepted
MET Single Skill Retake (SSR) is also accepted
👉 For example, if you meet the minimum scores in Listening, Reading, and Writing, but fall short in Speaking, you can now just re-sit the Speaking test — no need to redo the entire exam.
💡 Important: This new flexibility only applies to English tests taken on or after 13 September 2025. If your test was taken before that date, you must still achieve all required scores in a single sitting.
Comparison Table – Old vs New English Test Requirements
The table below outlines the minimum scores accepted for Subclass 482 visa applications depending on whether the English test was conducted before or on/after 13 September 2025.
| Test Provider | Component | Old Score (Before 13 Sept 2025) |
New Score (From 13 Sept 2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| C1 Advanced (CAE) | Overall | 154 | — |
| CELPIP General | Each Component | — | 5 |
| IELTS Academic or General | Each Component | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| LANGUAGECERT Academic | Listening | — | 41 |
| Reading | — | 44 | |
| Writing | — | 45 | |
| Speaking | — | 54 | |
| MET | Listening | — | 49 |
| Reading | — | 47 | |
| Writing | — | 45 | |
| Speaking | — | 38 | |
| OET | Each Component | B | B (e.g. Listening 220) |
| PTE Academic | Listening | 36 | 33 |
| Reading | 36 | 36 | |
| Writing | 36 | 29 | |
| Speaking | 36 | 24 | |
| TOEFL iBT | Listening / Reading | 4 | 8 |
| Writing | 14 | 9 | |
| Speaking | 14 | 14 |
New Test Providers Added
The following English language tests have now been added to the list of approved providers for the Subclass 482 visa:
CELPIP General
LANGUAGECERT Academic
Michigan English Test (MET)
This means more options for applicants globally, and potentially more accessible testing locations and flexible formats.
Validity of English Test Results
English test scores are valid for 3 years from the original test date.
If you re-sit a single skill (e.g. via IELTS OSR or MET SSR), the 3-year validity still starts from your first test sitting, not the retake date.
FAQs
What happens if I took my English test before 13 September 2025?
You must meet the old score thresholds listed in the previous instrument (LIN 24/099), and all components must be completed in a single sitting.
Can I use IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR) or MET SSR?
Yes — but only if your English test was conducted on or after 13 September 2025. These single skill retakes are not accepted for earlier tests.
Which English test is best for the Subclass 482 visa?
It depends on your location and skillset. IELTS, PTE, and OET remain popular, but CELPIP, MET, and LANGUAGECERT may provide better access or formats in some regions.
How long is the English test valid for?
The test is valid for three years from the original test date — even if you re-sit one component using OSR or SSR.
Ready to Apply for a Subclass 482 Visa?
Understanding the latest English language requirements is just one part of your migration journey. At One Planet Migration, we’re here to guide you through the entire visa process with expertise and care.
✅ Whether you're an employer sponsoring skilled talent or a professional planning your future in Australia, our team can help you get it right.
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Together, let’s connect humanity — one visa at a time.
Disclaimer: This article contains general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Although we strive to provide accurate and useful information, the nuances of Australian immigration law demand personalised advice from legal professionals. Given the dynamic nature of migration regulations, it is essential to consult with experienced immigration experts for your specific situation.
