Functional English Language Requirements
Functional English is the most basic level of English proficiency required for some Australian visas. It demonstrates the ability to understand and communicate in everyday situations. Functional English is assessed through recognized language tests or evidence of education in English-speaking institutions. Below are the visas where functional English is relevant:
Family and Partner Visas
- Partner Visas (Subclass 820/801 and 309/100): Applicants or sponsors may need to demonstrate functional English to avoid paying an additional second visa application charge.
- Parent Visas (e.g., Subclass 143, 173): Functional English may be required to reduce additional visa application costs.
Skilled Migration and Employer-Sponsored Visas
- Skilled Migration Visas: Functional English may be required for dependent applicants included in the visa application.
- Employer-Sponsored Visas: Some dependent family members of applicants may need to meet functional English requirements.
Business and Investor Visas
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- Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188): Applicants or their family members may need to demonstrate functional English or pay an additional charge.
FUNCTIONAL ENGLISH
| RESULT | IELTS | OET | TOEFL | PTA | CAE | EXEMPTION |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FUNCTIONAL ENGLISH | An average band score of at least 4.5 for each of the 4 test components | NA | A total band score of at least 32 based on the 4 test components of speaking, reading, writing and listening | An overall band score of at least 30 for each of the 4 test components | An overall band score of at least 147 for each of the four test components | See below* |