English requirements for 457 visa

From the 14th April 2009, those applying for a “457″ visa, must now comply with new IELTS score of  an average 5 in all 4 categories of Reading, Writing, Oral (speaking) and Aural (listening).

This new ruling will apply to all new applicants Nominated for an occupation in the ASCO Major Groups 4000′s-7000′s.

Those applicants holding a UK, Republic of Ireland, USA, Canada or New Zealand Passport will not be required to sit the IELTS test in this case, as all 5 Passports are automatically given a “Competent” English rating, or 6 in each of the 4 categories, which is the 2nd highest score possible. DIAC consider these 5 Passports use English as their 1st language.

This ruling will also include Head Chefs (ASCO 3322-11) and Chefs (ASCO 3322-01)

The English result of average 5 in all 4, is required at the time of Decision, not at the time of Application.

Should you require further clarification of this posting or you wish to see if your skill will qualify, please complete our FREE VISA ASSESSMENT on our Front Page.