Aus Visa Library

Understanding the Points Test for Skilled Migration

Migration
Understanding the Points Test for Skilled Migration
Functional English is a basic English proficiency required for many Australian visas, which applicants can prove through tests, education, or certain passports to improve integration and avoid extra fees.

Functional English is a requirement for many Australian migration and visa programs, especially when applying for skilled, family, or partner visas. This article explains everything you need to know about functional English in the context of Australian migration. We cover what it means, why it's important, how to meet this requirement, challenges you may encounter, costs and documentation, and answer commonly asked questions.

What is Functional English?

Functional English refers to a basic level of proficiency in the English language. It is used in the Australian visa application process to ensure applicants can communicate and participate effectively in an English-speaking environment.

Government Definition

The Australian Department of Home Affairs defines functional English as a grasp of the English language that allows a person to:

  • Understand everyday conversation
  • Read basic text
  • Write simple notes and instructions

You are not required to be fluent or academically proficient; rather, functional English is about being able to manage daily life in Australia.

Why is Functional English Important for Australian Visas?

Many Australian visas require applicants and sometimes dependants (such as partners or family members) to demonstrate an ability to speak and understand English at a functional level. This requirement:

  • Helps migrants integrate more easily into Australian society
  • Improves chances of finding employment
  • Allows access to essential services and education

It is particularly important for skilled, partner, and certain family visas to support social and economic success in Australia.

How to Prove Functional English

There are several ways you can prove functional English to the Department of Home Affairs:

1. English-language Test Results

You can provide evidence from approved English tests taken within the last 12 months (sometimes 3 years, depending on visa subclass). Accepted tests and minimum scores for functional English include:

  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
    • Average band score of at least 4.5 for each of the four test components
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT)
    • Total band score of at least 32
  • Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
    • Overall band score of at least 30
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)
    • Overall test score of at least 147

Note: these requirements differ from those for higher English thresholds (e.g., competent or proficient English).

2. Previous English-language Education

You may meet the functional English requirement by providing evidence that you:

  • Completed all your primary education and at least three years of secondary education in English; or
  • Completed at least five years of secondary and/or tertiary education where all instruction was in English

Accepted documentation includes transcripts, graduation certificates, and an official letter from the educational institution clearly confirming the language of instruction.

3. Passport Holders from Certain Countries

If you hold a valid passport from the United Kingdom, Ireland, United States, Canada, or New Zealand, you are considered to have functional English automatically and do not need further evidence.

4. Other Ways – (for Spouses/Partners on Subclass 189/190, etc.)

Sometimes, spouses or dependent applicants can demonstrate their functional English through Australian study, or in rare cases, by demonstrating work experience in an English-speaking environment.

How it Works: Functional English and the Australian Migration Program

Functional English is most commonly required in the following visa streams:

  • Skilled Migration (e.g., Subclass 189, 190, 491)
  • Partner Visas (subclass 309/100, 820/801)
  • Parent and Family Visas (e.g., Contributory Parent visa)
  • Business Visas (e.g., Significant Investor Visa)
  • Dependent or Secondary Applicants (where applicable)

For the main applicant, higher English requirements usually apply (such as competent or proficient English). For secondary/applicant family members, demonstration of functional English may suffice.

If you are unable to prove functional English, you may be asked to pay a second instalment visa application charge (commonly known as the "English language charge"), which can be substantial (often several thousand AUD per applicant).

Key Benefits and Features

  • Facilitates better community participation
  • Improves employment prospects
  • Waives additional fees: Proving functional English may remove the need for the second instalment charge
  • Various ways to meet requirement: Through testing, education, or passport
  • Recognised worldwide language tests

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenges

  • Test access and cost: Applicants may find English tests expensive (AUD $300–$400) or unavailable in some countries.
  • Documentation: Locating adequate proof of past education can be difficult for older applicants or those from countries with limited record-keeping.
  • Validity Periods: Some tests are only valid for 1–3 years.
  • Language barrier: Preparing for tests if your English is not strong.

Solutions

  • Plan ahead: Book your English test early and ensure documentation is ready.
  • Use bridging English classes: Many Australian providers offer courses designed to bring up your English level.
  • Document translation: Get certified translations of your education records and ensure all details are clear.
  • Professional advice: Migration agents can help you identify the best way for you to prove functional English depending on your history.

Professions and Visa Scenarios: Who Needs to Prove Functional English?

Often, applicants for the following professions and visa situations need to demonstrate functional English (especially for dependants):

  • Spouses and partners of skilled professionals
  • Dependent adult children for family visas
  • Investor visa secondary applicants
  • Parents of sponsored Australian citizens or permanent residents

**Example Scenarios