Visa 186 English Requirement: the Reference Level and Who Is Exempt

English is one of the conditions for visa 186, but it often causes confusion for two reasons: the required level is described using its own terminology, and there are exempt groups that people don’t always realise they belong to. This page helps you approach it correctly, rather than worrying needlessly or being caught out.

The reference English level

Visa 186 generally references a minimum English level described in the Department of Home Affairs’ own terms, converted into scores for tests such as IELTS, PTE and several equivalents. Because each test has its own scale and the conversion can be adjusted, check the current score for the specific test you plan to sit, rather than relying on a number you heard a long time ago.

Groups that are usually exempt

Some people do not have to submit an English test result. The group most often mentioned is people who hold a passport from one of the listed English-speaking countries. In addition, some study or other circumstances may also be considered. The important point is that the exemptions have specific conditions — don’t assume you are exempt until you have checked against the actual rules.

Avoiding two common mistakes

The first mistake is over-preparing for the test because you have mistaken the level for a different stream or a different visa. The second is assuming you are exempt and then not preparing, only to discover at lodgement that you do not fall within an exemption. Both waste time, and both can be avoided by confirming the exact requirement that applies to your situation.

When to confirm carefully

If you are not sure which level you need or whether you are exempt, that is the time to check the current official page or ask a registered migration agent (MARA). Confirming this correctly from the start saves you both test-preparation time and the risk of lodging with something missing.