Subclass 186 English Requirements: Test Timing and Family Members

For a subclass 186 visa, passing an English test at some point is not enough by itself. Check the stream, test version, each component score and the date the test was taken. The primary applicant and adult family members face different requirements, and holding a subclass 482 or 457 visa does not automatically remove the subclass 186 English requirement.

The primary applicant generally needs Competent English

Both Direct Entry and Temporary Residence Transition require Competent English. Home Affairs states that the TRT stream has had no English-language exemption since 16 November 2019. Some applicants may prove competence through citizenship and a valid passport from a listed country; others need an accepted test result. Check the rules for the specific stream being used.

Match the score table to the test date

Home Affairs changed the approved English tests for Australian visa purposes on 7 August 2025. Tests taken on or after that date use the new score tables. Some earlier results may remain usable during a transition period, depending on the visa subclass and validity rules. The same test name, such as IELTS or PTE, does not mean old and new score tables are interchangeable. Check all four components and the relevant validity period against the actual test date.

At-home and remote-proctored tests are restricted

The Department does not accept tests delivered completely online, including at-home or remote-proctored versions. Some tests also have specific delivery requirements. Before booking, check the official Competent English page for the accepted test type and sitting conditions so the result can be used for the visa application.

Adult family members have a separate threshold

An adult dependent family member included in an application generally needs Functional English or, where the rule applies, may need to pay a second instalment of the visa application charge. This differs from the primary applicant’s Competent English requirement. Check each family member’s age, timing, accepted evidence and any applicable charge separately.

A practical pre-lodgement check

Confirm the subclass 186 stream; choose the score table based on the test date; verify each component, test delivery method and validity; then check the English evidence or second-instalment arrangements for every adult family member. If relying on a passport, confirm the person’s citizenship, passport issuer and passport validity meet the stated criteria.

This is general information about subclass 186 English requirements. Accepted tests and scores can change; apply the current Home Affairs rules to each person’s circumstances at lodgement. Premiervisa Group’s subclass 186 service page is available for enquiries.