Updates to Student and Graduate Visas in Australia: English Requirement and New Genuine Student

Graduate Visa Australia

Recent changes to Australia's student visa and graduate visa policies signal a significant shift in the landscape of international education and post-study opportunities in the country. Starting from March 23, 2024, these updates include an increase in the English language requirements and the introduction of the Genuine Student Requirement.

English Language Requirement

Student Visas:

  • The minimum test score for English proficiency will rise from an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent). For PTE the minimum test score is now 50.
  • For those enrolling in ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students), the required score will increase from IELTS 4.5 to 5.0 (or equivalent). For PTE the minimum test score is now 36.

Graduate Visas:  

IELTS:

  • The English requirements will go up from IELTS 6.0 to 6.5 (or equivalent) with a minimum score of 5.5 for each component of the test (reading, writing, speaking, and listening).

PTE:

  • An overall band score of at least 57; for the listening test component a score of at least 43; for the reading test a score of at least 48; for the speaking test component a score of at least 42; and the writing test component of the PTE — a score of at least 51.

Big Impact on the Graduate Visa:

The validity period for the English test has been reduced from three years to just one year prior to the application date, a change that may present challenges for many applicants.

The new Genuine Student Requirement

The Department of Home Affairs has recently updated its website to include crucial information on the Genuine Student (GS) requirement, set to take effect on March 23, 2024. This update aims to provide applicants and stakeholders with a comprehensive understanding of the GS criterion, including what evidence and information should be incorporated into the application. The GS is replacing the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE).

What is the Genuine Student Requirement?

The Genuine Student requirement is designed to assess an applicant's intention to genuinely pursue studies in Australia.

Key Factors in Assessing the Genuine Student Requirement

The assessment of whether an applicant meets the GS requirement will consider various factors, including:

Applicant's Circumstances: This can include the reasons for choosing a particular course, the relevance of the course to the applicant's past or proposed future employment in their home country or a third country, and the potential for the course to enhance the applicant's career prospects.

Immigration History: The Department will look into the applicant's previous travel to Australia and other countries, including compliance with visa conditions and the laws of those countries.

Compliance with Visa Conditions and Other Relevant Matters: Any previous history of visa compliance, as well as other matters deemed relevant by the Department, will be taken into account.

Students in Australia

Plans to be a Skilled Migration Now Acceptable

The GS criterion also acknowledges that there are post-study pathways available for students who may be eligible, recognizing the potential for students to transition to other visa categories following their studies.

This is a welcome change from the previous GTE requirement, which required the applicant to make a statement about why they desperately wanted to leave after their studies.

Contact us if you need assistance with your Student or Graduate Visas. As soon as we have more updates about the Student and Graduate Visas, we will post them on our website and social media channels: TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram.

Do you need help with an Australian visa application?

Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents look forward to assisting you with your visa application.

Based in Adelaide, South Australia, we provide Australian Immigration advice to people and businesses from all over the world.

You can book an appointment online or call us at (+61) 8 8351 9956.

Continue reading
1089 Hits
0 Comments

Australian Partner Visa Changes for 2020-21 – Increased Visa Allocations & Controversial English Language Requirements

Early in October 2020, the Federal Budget was announced, along with various changes to partner visas for the 2020-21 migration program year.

Continue reading
8313 Hits

IELTS vs PTE: Which English Test is Easier? Plus Tips for Better English Scores

 

 

In this video, we are joined by Scott Johnston from Swoosh English to give us an insight into the popular International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and Pearson Test of English (PTE) tests, including some helpful tips and tricks to get the best English results.

If you are interested in English tutoring from Swoosh, please use our affiliate link: https://go.swooshenglish.com/pass-ielts?fpr=wvl-ielts

If you have any questions about English requirements for migration purposes, please feel free to contact us: -

Phone: (08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Continue reading
4672 Hits

IELTS now offering computer-delivered English tests for visa applicants in Australia

IELTS now offering computer-delivered English tests for visa applicants in Australia

IELTS has a new test format available to students - computer-delivered IELTS, which has been designed to make it easier for students to take the test at their convenience on a desktop computer.

The IELTS test is offered in two formats, IELTS Academic and General Training. Computer-delivered test takers will be tested on the following components:

  • Listening
  • Speaking
  • Reading
  • Writing

All aspects of the computer based test are the same as the paper based test, including question types, timings, content and marking. 

 

Continue reading
7720 Hits

Australia Citizenship News and Update – Now is the time to apply for your Australian Citizenship

Australia Citizenship News and Update – Now is the time to apply for your Australian Citizenship


Key terms: Citizenship – Australia – Australian Citizenship Legislation Amendment (Strengthening the Requirements for Australian Citizenship and Other Measures) Bill 2017 (the Bill) – High Court citizenship ruling – Dual Citizenship – Australia Citizenship requirements – Australia MPs – Banarby Joyce – Fiona Nash – Malcolm Roberts – Larissa Waters – Scott Ludlam – Nick Xenophon – Matthew Canavan

On 20 April 2017 the Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) announced that changes are being introduced to the Australian citizenship requirements. The changes include:

- Increased residency requirements (from one year to four)

- Meeting an English requirement

The changes are meant to be in effect once the Australian Citizenship Legislation Amendment (Strengthening the Requirements for Australian Citizenship and Other Measures) Bill 2017 (the Bill) gets passed in Parliament. Unfortunately applications yet to be decided were also put on hold until the Bill can be passed.

Continue reading
8146 Hits

Need a better English test score? Want to understand how the IELTS and TOEFL English tests work? FREE courses available here!

Need a better English test score? Want to understand how the IELTS and TOEFL English tests work? FREE courses available here!

Applicants applying for the General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas – subclass 189 Skilled Independent, subclass 190 Skilled Nominated and subclass 489 Skilled Regional Sponsored visas, will need to meet points test requirements to be eligible to receive an Invitation to Apply. Applicants applying for Employer-Sponsored visas such as the 457 visa, RSMS 187 visa and the ENS 186 visa may also need to meet English testing requirements to successfully obtain a work visa.

 

There are many types of English tests which you can take to demonstrate your English ability, but the IETLS and TOEFL English exams have been the traditional English tests for Australian visas. Many prospective visa applicants face difficulties with their English exams because of various reasons:

  • English not being the first language or mother tongue

  • Not familiar with the exam format and time limits

  • Not practicing with specimen materials before attempting the exams

 

Continue reading
4946 Hits

New English Tests for Nursing Skills Assessments! – PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT

New English Tests for Nursing Skills Assessments! – PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT

 

The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) has announced changes to the English language requirements for skills assessments of overseas qualified nurses and midwives.

The following requirements will apply from 1 July 2016:

PTE ACADEMIC Accepted – effective 1 July 2016

Applicants must achieve a minimum overall score of 65 AND a minimum score of 65 in each of the four communicative skills - listening, reading, writing and speaking.

ANMAC only accepts test results from one test sitting OR a maximum of two test sittings, in a six-month period only if the applicant achieves:

a) a minimum overall score of 65 in each sitting, AND

b) no score in any of the four communicative skills is below 58

TOEFL iBT Accepted – effective 1 July 2016

Applicants must achieve a minimum total score of 94 AND the following minimum score in each section of the test:

- 24 listening

- 24 reading

- 27 writing

- 23 speaking

ANMAC only accepts test results from one test sitting, OR a maximum of two test sittings in a six-month period only if the applicant achieves:

a) a minimum total score of 94 in each sitting, AND

b) no score in any of the sections is below:

- 20 listening

- 19 reading

- 24 writing

- 20 speaking

IELTS (Academic module)

Applicants must achieve a minimum overall score of 7 AND a minimum score of 7 in each of the four components - listening, reading, writing and speaking.

ANMAC only accepts test results from one test sitting OR a maximum of two test sittings, in a six-month period only if the applicant achieves:

a) a minimum overall score of 7 in each sitting, AND

b) no score in any component of the test is below 6.5

OET

Applicants must achieve a minimum score of B in each of the four components - listening, reading, writing and speaking.

ANMAC only accepts test results from one test sitting OR a maximum of two test sittings, in a six-month period only if the applicant:

a) is tested in all four components in each sitting, AND

b) no score in any component of the test is below C

Overseas nurses and midwives should note that Modified skills assessments do not require the submission of English language test results. To find out more about the Modified skills assessment and our recommended registration pathway for overseas qualified nurses and midwives, please refer to our earlier blog here.

Sources:

  1. http://www.anmac.org.au/international-services
  2. http://www.anmac.org.au/sites/default/files/documents/Communique_ELP_requirements_1_July_2016.pdf

 

Comments by Chris Johnston – Principal Lawyer and Registered Migration Agent at Work Visa Lawyers

ANMAC has now joined a list of skills assessment authorities which are accepting the PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT test results as part of the English requirements for a successful skills assessment outcome. This is a favourable movement for applicants who might have struggled with the format of the IELTS or OET exams.

You are reminded that English is only part of the skills assessment criteria and you need to make sure all criteria are met before you submit your skills assessment. If you are unsure whether you are able to meet the requirements, speak to a Registered Migration Agent to find out more.

This information is accurate on 30 June 2016

Do you need help with an Australian visa application?

At Work Visa Lawyers we are experienced in assisting applicants in all matters relating to Australian visa applications. Our areas of expertise include Skilled Migration visas, Business Skills Migration visas, Employer Sponsored Work Visas, Partner and other Family Migration visas as well as the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) Review, Judicial Review and Ministerial Intervention.

If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956

or   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Continue reading
19550 Hits

Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic – a better alternative to IELTS?

Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic – a better alternative to IELTS?

Are you asking yourself the questions, which is the Best English Test to take?

The Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) introduced additional English exams for visa applications in late 2014. Many applicants have been able to try the different English exams available and many have provided feedback that the PTE Academic exam has been a more manageable experience for them.

Work Visa Lawyers recently met with Joe Hernandez, Key Account Manager for Pearson Australia to discuss in detail the key features of the PTE Academic exam and how it can help visa applicants in the visa application process.

Photo with Joe

Joe Hernandez (centre) from Pearson Australia, with Chris Johnston (right) and Sean Choong (left) from Work Visa Lawyers

From our discussion here are a few key features of the PTE Academic exam that we feel are beneficial to visa applicants:

  • The entire exam is completed in approximately 3 hours (versus half a day or 2 days for IELTS)
  • The entire exam is conducted electronically – writing and speaking are done via computers
  • Results in 5 business days
  • Practice exam available online at $40.00 to familiarise yourself with the exam format and to roughly check your strengths and weaknesses

The exam candidate will definitely feel less tired taking the PTE Academic compared to the IELTS, as the entire exam is completed in 3 hours. An IELTS exam will take up half a day on weekends, or require you to return to the test centre during mid-week for the speaking component. Additionally the speaking module for PTE Academic is done speaking into a computer microphone (likened to speaking to family on Skype) while the traditional IELTS speaking component puts you face-to-face with an examiner who may cause uneasiness among candidates (likened to a nerve-wracking job interview).

Being able to obtain your results in 5 days will be very helpful for visa applicants facing an urgent deadline to lodge a visa application. Joe explains that the centralised, electronic marking system provides a fast turnaround for candidates to obtain results. The marking system also means that assessment levels and integrity are constant for all candidates.

There are also other considerations unique to the PTE Academic exam:

  • It is better to re-take the exam than to re-mark since the same centralised marking system is used for the re-mark
  • Certain skills assessment authorities like Engineers Australia (might change soon), ANMAC and AITSL currently does not accept PTE Academic exam results as part of the skills assessment criteria

Comments by Chris Johnston – Principal Lawyer and Registered Migration Agent at Work Visa Lawyers

The PTE Academic exam is definitely an attractive alternative to the IELTS exam for visa applicants. As mentioned in our earlier blog there have been clients who were able to obtain better results with the PTE Academic exam. If you are interested in taking the PTE Academic exam, you may want to consider booking in advance, as there may be an increase in demand for the exam, resulting in a long wait to take the exam. Joe has mentioned that Pearson Australia is working to increase the availability of the exam in Australia to cope with the increased demand.

Work Visa Lawyers thanks Joe and Pearson Australia for spending time with us sharing the information that we think is important for migrants who are required to take English exams for their visa application. We also remind visa applicants that English is only one part of the visa application requirements. Always check with a Registered Migration Agent for all relevant requirements before applying for a visa.

This information is accurate on 19 October 2015.

Sources:

 

Do you need help with an Australian visa application?

At Work Visa Lawyers we are experienced in assisting applicants in all matters relating to Australian visa applications. Our areas of expertise include Skilled Migration visas, Business Skills Migration visas, Employer Sponsored Work Visas, Partner and other Family Migration visas as well as Migration Review Tribunal, Judicial Review and Ministerial Intervention.

If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 7225 5091 or +61 8 7225 5091

or   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

 

Continue reading
15130 Hits

Free Q&A Session on English Exams and Preparations for Australian Visa Applications

Free Q&A Session on English Exams and Preparations for Australian Visa Applications

Work Visa Lawyers is pleased to host a complimentary English exam Q&A session with private English tutor, Susan Taylor. Susan has many years of private english tutoring experience and holds a Graduate Diploma in Education. She will be providing tips and advice on taking English exams including IELTS (Academic or General Training), OET and the PTE Academic Exam. Here are the details:

Venue:

Work Visa Lawyers office

230 Henley Beach Road

Torrensville 5031 SA

Date: Friday, 23 October 2015

Time: 2 p.m - 3 p.m.

 

This FREE session is available to all but priority will given to existing clients of Work Visa Lawyers. Places are limited so please email to confirm your attendance. Send your confirmation to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

We hope that all aspiring migrants will take advantage of this unique opportunity to improve your chances at getting the required results for the English exams. See you at the session!

Continue reading
4147 Hits

All you need to know about English exams for Australia visa applications

All you need to know about English exams for Australia visa applications

 

Most Australian temporary and permanent residence visa applications require applicants to meet English language requirements. Currently there are FIVE different English exams that are accepted by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection:

  • IELTS – International English Language Testing System (Academic or General Module)
  • OET – Occupational English Test
  • TOEFL iBT – Test of English as a Foreign Language (internet-based test)
  • PTE – Pearson Test of English (Academic)
  • CAE – Cambridge English: Advanced

While there are different English exams available the requirements thresholds remain the same as Functional, Vocational, Competent, Proficient and Superior. Here are the equivalents across the five different exams:

English Language
proficiency level

Test component

IELTS

TOEFL iBT

PTE Academic

Cambridge English:
Advanced (CAE)*

OET

Functional

Average/total/ overall across test components

4.5

32

30

147

n/a

Vocational

Listening

5.0

4

36

154

B

Reading

5.0

4

36

154

B

Writing

5.0

14

36

154

B

Speaking

5.0

14

36

154

B

Competent

Listening

6.0

12

50

169

B

Reading

6.0

13

50

169

B

Writing

6.0

21

50

169

B

Speaking

6.0

18

50

169

B

Proficient 
(for points tested Skilled visas)

Listening

7.0

24

65

185

B

Reading

7.0

24

65

185

B

Writing

7.0

27

65

185

B

Speaking

7.0

23

65

185

B

Superior
(for points tested Skilled visas)

Listening

8.0

28

79

200

A

Reading

8.0

29

79

200

A

Writing

8.0

30

79

200

A

Speaking

8.0

26

79

200

A

Fees and Time Taken for Results

The following are fees for the exams in Australia:

IELTS – A$ 330
Results available 13 calendar days after the test

OET – A$ 587 including A$ 7 booking fee
Results available 16 business days after the test (add 7 to 10 business days for post)

TOEFL iBT – US$ 300
Results available 10 calendar days after the test (add 4 to 6 weeks for post)

PTE – A$ 330
Results available 5 business days after the test

CAE – A$ 280
Results available 4-6 weeks after the test (2 weeks for computer-based exams)

Comments by Chris Johnston – Principal Lawyer and Registered Migration Agent at Work Visa Lawyers

The availability of different English exams is a great advantage for visa applicants for the following reasons:

  • Applicants can now take English exams of a different format, e.g. computer-based exams
  • Applicants who are facing time constraints or deadlines to submit a visa application with an English exam result now have more options to obtain an English exam result faster

Work Visa Lawyers advises that applicants do not wait until the last minute before submitting a visa application. Occasionally circumstances may force applicants to have a very short window to submit a visa application. Applicants can now check with different English exam providers to see which can provide the English exams results in time for their visa application.

Now that the new English exams have been introduced for quite some time, I can provide you with some feedback from my clients:

  • Many clients are preferring the PTE Academic exam as they find that they can get better results compared to the IELTS
  • This means that exam places for the PTE Academic exam may be booked up as more visa applicants choose to take the PTE exam
  • Book your English exams as early as possible to avoid a long wait for the exam date

This information is accurate on 28 August 2015

Sources:

  1. IELTS
    https://ielts.com.au/
  2. OET
    https://www.occupationalenglishtest.org/
  3. TOEFL
    https://www.ets.org/toefl/ibt/about/
  4. PTE
    http://pearsonpte.com/
  5. CAE
    http://www.cambridgeenglish.org/exams/advanced/

 

Links to previous blogs about English requirements:

Do you need help with an Australian visa application?

At Work Visa Lawyers we are experienced in assisting applicants in all matters relating to Australian visa applications. Our areas of expertise include Skilled Migration visas, Business Skills Migration visas, Employer Sponsored Work Visas, Partner and other Family Migration visas as well as Migration Review Tribunal, Judicial Review and Ministerial Intervention.

If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 7225 5091 or +61 8 7225 5091

or   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Continue reading
9930 Hits

Announced Changes from Immigration South Australia

Announced Changes from Immigration South Australia

 

Immigration SA has published a list of upcoming changes for the new financial year 2014-15. Here are the pending changes that will come into effect on 1 July 2015:

1) New State Occupation List

Applicants looking for South Australia state sponsorship will have to refer to the new occupation list on 1 July to determine eligibility and additional requirements.

2) New English Requirements

ICT occupations now need to fulfil Proficient English or an overall score of Proficient Plus English.

Engineering occupations will need to meet Competent Plus English or an overall score of Proficient English.

There will also be changes to other occupations so you will need to check the new occupation list to find out occupation-specific requirements.

3) Closure of the Online Application System

The SA application system for the 190 and 489 state sponsorship will be closed at 1 p.m. (Adelaide time) on 30 June 2015. The system will only re-open at 12 p.m. on 1 July 2015. All applications that are saved or submitted WITHOUT PAYMENT will be deleted and you will need to lodge new applications. Applications submitted on 1 July 2015 or after will be subject to new state sponsorship requirements.

Comments by Chris Johnston – Principal Lawyer and Registered Migration Agent at Work Visa Lawyers

It is beneficial that Immigration SA has released a list of changes (although not complete) that will be in effect on 1 July 2015. This serves as a reminder to all who are looking to obtain SA state sponsorship to complete their applications and submit payment before the closure of the system. As there may be a rush for submissions near the closure, you are advised to complete the submission as early as possible before the closure date.

Source:

  1. http://www.migration.sa.gov.au/news-events/news-releases/revised-south-australian-state-occupation-list-from-1-july-2015

This information is accurate on 25 June 2015

Do you need help with an Australian visa application?

At Work Visa Lawyers we are experienced in assisting applicants in all matters relating to Australian visa applications, including state sponsorship applications. Our areas of expertise include Skilled Migration visas, Business Skills Migration visas, Employer Sponsored Work Visas, Partner and other Family Migration visas as well as Migration Review Tribunal, Judicial Review and Ministerial Intervention.

If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 7225 5091 or +61 8 7225 5091

or   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Continue reading
7036 Hits

Australia Migration Updates - Video Update by Registered Migration Agent Chris Johnston

Watch Registered Migration Agent (MARN 0640686) and Migration Lawyer Chris Johnston provide the latest updates to the Australia migration programme.

Topics covered include:

  • Lower English Requirements for Skilled Graduate Visas
  • 457 Visa changes include lower English
  • Business and Investor Visa News
  • Skilled Nomination visas – 190 and 489 program processing almost complete for the financial year
  • Increases in Visa Cancellations
  • RSMS 187 Policy Change
  • WVL Invited to China as Part of South Australian Delegation
  • Breaking News – Complying investments for SIV and PIV and Visa application
Continue reading
4603 Hits

Changes announced for the 457 visa – Lower English Requirements

Changes announced for the 457 visa – Lower English Requirements

This is the news that many have been waiting for. The Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) has amended English requirements for the Subclass 457 (Temporary Work (Skilled)) visas. The change will affect all new applications lodged on or after 18 April 2015, and also existing applications in progress that have not been finalised. Here are the new scores requirement:

English test

Minimum band score

Minimum scores for English test components

Listening

Reading

Speaking

Writing

IELTS test

Overall band score 5.0

4.5

4.5

4.5

4.5

OET

-

B

B

B

B

TOEFL iBT

Total band score 36

3

3

12

12

PTE

Overall band score 36

30

30

30

30

CAE

Overall band score 154

147

147

147

147

Additionally the exemption to the English requirement has now changed to requiring an applicant to have at least 5 years of cumulative full-time study in a secondary and/or higher education institution where the instruction was delivered in English. Previously the studies needed to be completed consecutively for 5 years.

Comments by Chris Johnston – Principal Lawyer and Registered Migration Agent at Work Visa Lawyers

Along with the changes announced for the 476 and 485 visas (read the news here), the 457 visa programme now has lower English requirements as well. There are no changes to the OET test scores requirement, and CAE exams need to be completed on or after 1 January 2015.

While this will allow more applicants to meet the 457 visa requirements, it is important to know that there are other criteria that need to be fulfilled prior to lodging an application, as well as important obligations to fulfil after a 457 visa is granted, for both the applicant and business sponsor. Failing to meet the criteria and obligations thereafter may cause invite monitoring and sanctions from the Department.

Source:

  1. http://www.comlaw.gov.au/Details/F2015L00563

This information is accurate on the 21 April 2015

Do you need help with an Employer Sponsored work visa application?

At Work Visa Lawyers we are experienced in assisting applicants for the Employer Sponsored work visa applications, which include business sponsorship application, nomination and visa application. We are also experienced in general skilled migration visas, business skills visas and family visas.

If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 7225 5091 or +61 8 7225 5091

or   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Continue reading
7911 Hits

Changes announced for the 476 and 485 visa – Lower English Requirements

Changes announced for the 476 and 485 visa – Lower English Requirements

 

The Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) has announced lower English requirements for the Skilled – Recognised Graduate (subclass 476) and Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visas. Originally applicants needed to meet “competent English” requirements for the 476 and 485 visa applications. For new applications lodged on or after 18 April 2015, applicants will now need to show one of the following:

  • an overall score of at least 6, with nothing below 5 in each of the four test components (speaking, reading, listening and writing) in an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test
  • a score of at least 'B' in each of the four test components (speaking, reading, listening and writing) of an Occupational English Test (OET)
  • a total score of at least 64, with nothing below 4 for listening, 4 for reading, 14 for writing and 14 for speaking, in a Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based test (TOEFL iBT)
  • an overall score of at least 50 with nothing below 36 in each of the four test components (listening, reading, writing and speaking) in a Pearson Test of English Academic
  • an overall score of at least 169 with nothing below 154 in each of the four test components (listening, reading, w​​​​riting and speaking) in a Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) test taken on or after 1 January 2015
  • evidence of holding a valid passport issued by the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Canada, New Zealand or the Republic of Ireland.

Comments by Chris Johnston – Principal Lawyer and Registered Migration Agent at Work Visa Lawyers

In recent times the English requirement for visa applications has been increased after the findings of correlation between English ability and employment outcomes for new migrants. This new change is a win-win for international students and the government as students will get a try-out at working and living in Australia for a period of up to 18 months. After fulfilling criteria such as 12 months employment and better English test results, which indicates a compatibility between the graduate and Australia, the 476 or 485 visa holder can then apply for permanent visa options.

Source:

  1. http://www.immi.gov.au/News/Pages/el-change.aspx

This information is accurate on the 20 April 2015

Do you need help with a Skilled Migration visa application?

At Work Visa Lawyers we are experienced in assisting applicants for the skilled migration visa applications, which include the 476 and 485 visas. We are also experienced in the employer sponsored work visas, business skills visas and family visas.

If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 7225 5091 or +61 8 7225 5091

or   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Continue reading
9067 Hits

Australian Immigration News for September 2014 - New English Tests and Partner Visa Fees Up

.

Continue reading
4684 Hits

Australian Immigration News for January 2015 - New English Tests / Partner Visa Fees Up / Chef and Motor Mechanic now great options!

 

 

Topics covered by Chris Johnston, Lawyer an Registered Migration Agent:


1. Partner Visa fee increase 0:11
2. New English Language Tests 0:50
3. Temporary Work Visa - Subclass 400 VISA now longer 1:37
4. Chef and Motor Mechanic now a great option 2:28

Registered Migration Agent - RMAN 0640686

Warning:

This information is accurate on the 17 January 2015. 

DIBP will change visa requirements in an ongoing manner and all current requirements must be established prior to lodging an application. 

 

Do You Need Help in Relation to Australian Visas?

If you require further information regarding Australian visa options you contact our offices on:

 (08) 7225 5091 or +61 8 7225 5091  

or

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Continue reading
4894 Hits

WHICH ENGLISH TEST IS THE BEST FOR AUSTRALIAN MIGRATION?

WHICH ENGLISH TEST IS THE BEST FOR AUSTRALIAN MIGRATION?

WHICH ENGLISH TEST IS THE BEST FOR AUSTRALIAN MIGRATION?

2018 IELTS UPDATE: IELTS now offering computer-delivered English tests for visa applicants in AustraliaIELTS now offering computer-delivered English tests for visa applicants in Australia

New tests are available for Australian Migration, giving you more options!

Since 23 November 2014 the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) has accepted other forms of English tests other than IELTS and the OET for Temporary Graduate, Skilled, Former Resident and Work and Holiday visa applications.  In our earlier article we mentioned that in addition to IELTS and OET, applicants can now use TOEFL and PTE Academic for visa application purposes (CAE to be accepted 1 Jan 2015 onwards).  Click here for our earlier article regarding the newly accepted English exams and the relevant scoring benchmarks.

So applicants now have options to the type of English exam they wish to take for their visa application. 

The options include:

  • IELTS
  • TOEFL iBT
  • Pearson - PTE Academic
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)

WHICH ENGLISH TEST is Easiest and Best for You?

Are all the English exams the same? 

Are the structures of some exams more compatible for the person taking the exam? 

TOEFL is all done talking to the computer, whereas IELTS is paper based for writing and you have to speak to a person.

Watch this video of a student who have done all the different exams and what he thinks about them.  You can hear him speak about the differences between TOEFL and IELTS at the 3:31 mark: 

I scored much better on the TOEFL test than I did the IELTS. So the difference was quite big.  So apparently for me the TOEFL was better.  So for the IELTS test I had an overall average of 7.5... For the TOEFL test I scored...  for the internet based test I scored 114 out of 120

Another video provides more details on the preparation for the exams (2:55 mark):

These (preparation leaflets) are very important because they really give you... put you at ease when you are in front of the exam so I would really recommend reading those. So even if you don’t really prepare your English at least you prepare the way you have to take you exam so that would help you a lot.

On the exam format (6:34 mark):

... in TOEFL lots of it were in multiple choice except for the writing section and in the IELTS you have to write even when you are listening and also when you are reading you have to write...

For a detailed description of the exam formats and differences you can watch this video and find out what tasks await you in the different exams.  There are also many tips and video guides on specific sections for the exams on YouTube.  You can also find more descriptions online for the other English exams such as Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) that is now accepted for visa applications.

Now that you know the exams are different, do find out and try the specimen exam materials for the different tests to see which suits you better.  Complications in fulfilling the English requirements can delay your visa application and affect your eligibility.  Act now to find your best English test and obtain the scores required to start your new life in Australia!

Comments by Chris Johnston – Principal Lawyer at Work Visa Lawyers:

With the recent opening of new test for many Australian visas, I have spoken with many of my client’s.  Some are sticking with the IELTS as they are used to its structure. 

There is also strong interest in the TOEFL IBT due to it being done on a computer at a testing centre.  I will do further blogs in which I comment on the feedback provided by my clients about which test they prefer.

Source:

From Fulbright Belgium

Applying to US Universities: Comparing the GRE, GMAT, TOEFL and IELTS Tests

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agBQrQOWPAo


TOEFL vs IELTS: Comparing English Language Proficiency Tests

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yk2hMlRW99g

TOEFL - IELTS: Compare TOEFL vs IELTS and take the right one https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2CFBXg4H3fU

Warning:

 This information is accurate on the 11 January 2015.

Do You Need Help with Australia Migration?

At Work Visa Lawyers we are experienced in assisting applicants with the Expression of Interest, State Sponsorship and Visa application process for state sponsored subclasses 190 and 489.  We can also assist with the Independent 189.

If you require further information regarding an application or your Australian visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 7225 5091 or +61 8 7225 5091 

or   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Continue reading
34066 Hits

Yeah! New English Tests now acceptable for many Australian visa applications

Yeah!  New English Tests now acceptable for many Australian visa applications

 

Yeah!  New English Tests now acceptable for many Australian visa applications - TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic witn CAE to follow in January!

 

The Department of Immigration has been sending this news release out today:

 

“Expansion of three additional English language tests across visa programmes from 23 November 2014

From 23 November 2014 the department will accept test scores from two additional tests to IELTS across the Temporary Graduate, Skilled, Former Resident and Work and Holiday programmes. These are the Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based test (TOEFL iBT) and the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic. The department will also accept scores from the Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) test undertaken from 1 January 2015. Further information about these alternative tests is available from the department’s website www.immi.gov.au/News/Pages/aelt.aspx.

The department will not accept test scores from TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic or Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) tests for Temporary Work (Skilled) (subclass 457) visas as evidence of English language ability.”

Here are the English Score Equivalencies in a Table

English Language
proficiency level

Test component

IELTS

TOEFL iBT

PTE Academic

Cambridge English:
Advanced (CAE)*

OET

Functional

Average/total/overall across test components only

4.5

32

30

147

n/a

Vocational

Listening

5.0

4

36

154

B

Reading

5.0

4

36

154

B

Writing

5.0

14

36

154

B

Speaking

5.0

14

36

154

B

Competent

Listening

6.0

12

50

169

B

Reading

6.0

13

50

169

B

Writing

6.0

21

50

169

B

Speaking

6.0

18

50

169

B

Proficient 
(for points tested Skilled visas)

Listening

7.0

24

65

185

B

Reading

7.0

24

65

185

B

Writing

7.0

27

65

185

B

Speaking

7.0

23

65

185

B

Superior
(for points tested Skilled visas)

Listening

8.0

28

79

200

A

Reading

8.0

29

79

200

A

Writing

8.0

30

79

200

A

Speaking

8.0

26

79

200

A

*From 1 January 2015 and only for a Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) test taken on or after 1 January 2015.

Sources:

DIBP website:

http://www.immi.gov.au/News/Pages/aelt.aspx 

Warning:

 This information is accurate on the 24 November 2014.  State/Territory Bodies and DIBP will change requirements in an ongoing manner and all current requirements must be established prior to lodging an application. 

Do You Need Help with  Australia Migration?

At Work Visa Lawyers we are experience in assisting applicants with the Expression of Interest, State Sponsorship and Visa application process for state sponsored subclasses 190 and 489.  We can also assist with the Independent 189.

If you require further information regarding an application or your Australian visa options

you can contact us through:

 (08) 7225 5091 or +61 8 7225 5091  

or      This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Continue reading
9165 Hits

Five tips for the IELTS test by English tutor Fran Reid

Five tips for the IELTS test by English tutor Fran Reid

 

Five tips for the IELTS test by English tutor Fran Reid.

 

 

1.      Know what the examiners want for each section of the test.

 

Each section of the test is marked according to certain criteria, knowing what the examiner is looking for will help you to target your responses.

 

2.      Speak, listen, read and write English as much as possible.

 

‘Using’ English in your everyday life will improve your confidence in using English in a relaxed way.

 

3.      Practice the test on a regular basis.

 

Practice gives you a feel for the timing of the test and increases your self confidence by giving you a realistic idea of your English capabilities.

 

         4.   Manage your time so you have a quiet space for practice.

 

Make sure you are in a good position to prepare for the test. Work and family responsibilities often get in the way of studies so plan for this study period.

 

5.      Engage a tutor or not?

 

Taking IELTS preparation classes provides you with a controlled environment where a tutor will monitor your work and give you feedback to help you understand where you need to improve.

 

Do You Need Help with the IELTS Test?

At MarketPlaceEnglish I assist people with the IELTS Test using authentic practice materials and providing constructive feedback.

I am a qualified and experienced tutor having helped hundreds of people gain their desired band score.

 

I provide English tuition in the city of Adelaide in South Australia.

If I can be of assistance or you require further information and would like to make a booking please contact Frances on:

Phone: 042 117 8286

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

 

Continue reading
6752 Hits

457 visa news -Government report recommends changes including easing English requirements and LMT

457 visa news -Government report recommends changes including easing English requirements and LMT

 

The Government has release a review report on the 457 program titled,Robust New Foundations: A Streamlined, Transparent and Responsive System for the 457 Programme.

The Report contains 22 recommendations, which include the following:

  • $Labour Market testing requirements be abolished;

 

  • A more flexible and adaptive approach to adding occupations to the 457 list (CSOL list), due to limitations of the current ANZSCO occupations.

 

  • The exemption from the need to demonstrate the market rate should be aligned with the income level above which the top marginal tax rate is paid (currently at $180 000)

 

  • No rises in the TSMIT  of $53,900 in the next two years

 

  • Training Benchmarks - current training benchmarks be replaced by an annual training fund contribution based on each 457 visa holder sponsored, with the contributions scaled according to size of business.

 

  • That the English language requirement be amended to an average score. For example, in relation to International English Language Testing System, the 457 applicant should have an average of 5 across the four competencies (or the equivalent for an alternative English language testing provider).

 

  • Genuine position requirement - That before decision-makers refuse a nomination on the basis of the genuine position requirement, the sponsor be invited to provide further information to the decision-maker.

 

  • Sponsorship - That Standard Business Sponsors should be approved for five years and start-up business sponsors for 18 months.

 

  • That greater priority be given to monitoring 457 business sponsors and visa holders.

 

  • Inter-agency cooperation - That there be greater collaboration between the department and the Australian Taxation Office to uphold integrity within the 457 programme and minimise the burden on employers.

 

  • Fair Work Ombudsman- That the Fair Work Ombudsman’s current complementary role in monitoring compliance and referral of findings to the department for action should continue.

 

  • Sanctions - That dedicated resourcing be made available to the department to enable the investigation and prosecution of civil penalty applications and court orders.

 

 

Comments by Chris Johnston, Lawyer and Registered Migration Agent, Principal of Work Visa Lawyers:

It is important to note, that this is a Report with recommendations, and that the recommendations have not been implemented.  We will post further news soon after any of the recommendations are implemented and become 457 requirements.

 

Sources:

Migration Institute of Australia

Australian Government Report:

http://www.immi.gov.au/pub-res/Documents/reviews/streamlined-responsive-457-programme.pdf

News release by Senator the Hon. Michaelia Cash:

www.minister.immi.gov.au/media/mc/2014/mc217716.htm

Warning -This information is accurate on the 13 September 2014.  

DIBP will change visa requirements in an ongoing manner and all current requirements must be established prior to lodging an application. 

Do you Need Help with the 457 process, to be approved as a business sponsor or to get an Australian Visa for an employee?

If you require further information regarding an employer sponsored visa applications , either as an employer or an applicant, we can help you.

Contact us on (08) 7225 5091 or +61 8 7225 5091

or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Continue reading
6848 Hits

Sign up to our Migration Newsletter

Work Visa Lawyers works on Kaurna Land
We acknowledge and pay respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and
Elders of this land and this nation, and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational
practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This site's contents are for general information purposes only
We recommend you seek advice from a Registered Migration Agent and Lawyer
(such as Work Visa Lawyers) in relation to your factual situation and relevant migration laws

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation

Site by Adelaide Websites