Australian Immigration Daily News

The Migration (Evidence of Functional English Language Proficiency) Instrument 2025 (LIN 25/014) defines what qualifies as “functional English” for visa purposes under the Migration Act 1958 and Migration Regulations 1994.

It takes effect from 7 August 2025 and replaces the previous instrument (IMMI 15/004). Functional English can be proven through certain education history (such as completing specific years of schooling in English), recent English language test scores (from tests like IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, OET, MET, CELPIP General, or LANGUAGECERT Academic), or by holding a valid passport from the UK, USA, Canada, Ireland, or New Zealand.

Tests taken between 5 August 2024 and 6 August 2025 under the previous instrument may still be used. The instrument underwent consultation with relevant stakeholders, is exempt from disallowance, and does not require a Human Rights compatibility statement.

Source:  Migration-Evidence-of-Functional-English-Language-Proficiency-Instrument-2025.pdf and Migration-Evidence-of-Functional-English-Language-Proficiency-Instrument-2025-Explanatory-Statement.pdf