Subclass 485 Visas Explained: New Guidelines 2025

Migration Update

Understanding the New English Language Requirements for Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) Visas in 2025

The Australian Government has introduced updated English language proficiency requirements for applicants applying for the Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) visa. These changes are detailed in the Migration (English Language Requirements for Subclass 485 Visas) Instrument 2025 (LIN 25/089), which comes into effect on 7 August 2025. This new instrument repeals and replaces the previous LIN 24/021 guidelines.

If you want to apply for a Temporary Graduate visa, you need to know the new English language requirements. This applies to both the Post-Vocational Education Work and Post-Higher Education Work streams. This will help make sure your application meets the updated criteria.

What Does the New Instrument Cover?

The updated instrument clearly outlines several key aspects related to English language proficiency for Subclass 485 visa applicants:

Approved English Language Tests

Applicants must demonstrate their English proficiency through one of the following recognised tests:

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
PTE (Pearson Test of English)
TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test)
OET (Occupational English Test)
CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
LANGUAGECERT
MET (Michigan English Test)
Cambridge Advanced

Each test has specific score requirements based on the applicant’s visa stream and individual category.

Required Test Scores

The required minimum scores for each test are specified in detailed schedules within the instrument. Notably, applicants holding Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passports have separate, tailored scoring criteria to meet.

Timing of English Tests

To be valid, English test results must be obtained within one year prior to the date of visa application. Typically, the results must come from a single sitting of the test, except for the OET, where combined results may be accepted.

Exemptions from English Language Testing

Some applicants do not need to meet the English proficiency requirements if they hold a valid passport from one of these countries:

Canada
New Zealand
Republic of Ireland
United Kingdom
United States of America

These applicants do not need to submit English language test results as part of their visa application.

Transitional Arrangements for Applications

For applicants lodging their visa application on or after 7 August 2025, there is some flexibility. Applicants who took approved English tests from August 7, 2024, to August 6, 2025, can use these results. The test evidence must meet the criteria listed in the guidelines.

Background and Development

These updates come after a Request for Expression of Interest (REOI) process that began in July 2022. The goal is to review and improve English language testing for temporary graduate visa applicants. The updated tool shows new agreements signed with test providers. This ensures consistency and fairness in the assessment process.

Consultations were conducted with key stakeholders, including:

English Verification and Competency Committee (EVCC)
Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
Legal Council of Australia (LCA)
Migration Institute of Australia (MIA)

This collaborative approach helped shape practical, fair, and transparent English language requirements for applicants.

About Emigrate Lawyers

At Emigrate Lawyers, we understand that navigating visa applications can be complex and stressful. Our experienced migration lawyers specialise in providing tailored legal advice and assistance for Temporary Graduate visas and other migration matters. We stay updated on the latest rules, including English language requirements. This helps make sure your application is accurate, complete, and has the best chance to succeed.

If you need help with your Subclass 485 visa application, reach out to the experts at Emigrate Lawyers to discuss your case.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1 – Which English language tests are accepted for the Subclass 485 visa?A – The accepted tests include IELTS, PTE, TOEFL iBT, OET, CELPIP, LANGUAGECERT, MET, and Cambridge Advanced.Q2 – How recent must my English test results be?A – Your test results must be obtained within one year before your visa application date.Q3 – Are there any exemptions to the English language requirement?

A – Yes, applicants with valid passports from Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, the UK, or the USA are exempt.

Q4 – Can I use combined scores from multiple OET sittings?

A – Yes, the instrument allows combined results for the OET test, unlike most other tests, which require a single sitting.

Q5 – What if I took my English test before 7 August 2025 but applied after that date?

A – Transitional arrangements let you use test results from August 7, 2024, to August 6, 2025, if they meet the criteria.

Conclusion

The updated Migration (English Language Requirements for Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) Visas) Instrument 2025 has important changes. Applicants should know these changes before applying. Meeting the English language proficiency standards, understanding exemptions, and transitional arrangements are critical for a smooth visa application process.

Plan by taking an approved English test on time. You can also check if you are exempt. This will help you avoid delays or refusals.

For personal legal help and to stay updated on migration law, trust migration lawyers. They can guide you every step of the way.

Sources –

For personal help with your Subclass 485 visa application, contact migration law experts. They can guide you through the new requirements and process.