Is IELTS Mandatory to Get a Work Visa in Australia?

Yes, IELTS (or an equivalent English test) is generally required to get a work visa in Australia. However, the specific requirement depends on the visa type and your occupation.

1. Skilled Work Visas (PR & Temporary)

Subclass 189, 190, 491 (Skilled Migration) → Yes, IELTS required

Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage - TSS Visa) → Yes, IELTS required

2. Employer-Sponsored Work Visas

Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme - ENS Visa) → Yes, IELTS required

Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional - SESR Visa) → Yes, IELTS required

Minimum IELTS Score Required

General Requirement: Overall 6.0 (with no band below 5.0)

Higher for Certain Professions: Healthcare, engineering, and teaching may require 7.0 or higher

Alternatives to IELTS

PTE Academic

TOEFL iBT

OET (for healthcare professionals)

Cambridge C1 Advanced

Exemptions from IELTS

You may be exempt if:

You are from an English-speaking country (UK, USA, Canada, Ireland, NZ).

You studied for 5+ years in English.

Your employer can provide alternative proof of English proficiency.

For most applicants, IELTS or another English test is mandatory unless an exemption applies.