LIN 18/043 (Specification of English Language Requirements 2018) is the legislative instrument that defines the specific test scores required for each level of English proficiency recognised under Australian migration law. The four levels — Vocational English, Competent English, Proficient English, and Superior English — are used across multiple visa subclasses to set minimum language requirements and to award points in the points test.

The instrument specifies the minimum scores for each of five accepted English tests: IELTS (Academic), TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency, and OET.

LIN 18/043 is made by the Minister under the Migration Regulations 1994. English language requirements in visa subclass criteria reference the levels defined in this instrument rather than specifying scores directly. This means changes to the instrument automatically update the requirements across all visa subclasses that reference the relevant level.

The four levels and their minimum IELTS (Academic) band scores are:

• Vocational English: At least Band 5 in each of the four components (listening, reading, writing, speaking) — required for some lower-tier visa conditions and family stream outcomes
• Competent English: At least Band 6 in each component — the minimum for Subclass 482 TSS (medium-term stream); required for most employer-sponsored pathways
• Proficient English: At least Band 7 in each component — required for the Subclass 186 Direct Entry stream; earns 10 extra points in the points test
• Superior English: At least Band 8 in each component — earns 20 extra points in the points test; the highest English proficiency level recognised for migration purposes

For TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge, and OET, different score equivalents apply. OET scores apply only to healthcare occupations.

English exemptions apply for passport holders of the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, New Zealand, and Ireland — these applicants are deemed to have Competent English regardless of test scores.

Points test applicants should note that English proficiency above the minimum Competent level generates significant additional points: Proficient English adds 10 points, and Superior English adds 20 points relative to the Competent baseline. This makes English proficiency one of the highest-value point factors for skilled migration applicants who are near the invitation threshold.

The instrument specifies minimum scores in each component — not an overall average. An applicant with an IELTS overall band score of 7.5 who achieved Band 6.5 in writing would not meet Proficient English, as the minimum for each component is 7.0. Applicants should ensure they achieve the component minimums, not just a sufficient overall band score.

OET (Occupational English Test) as an accepted test was added later and applies specifically to healthcare occupations (doctors, nurses, pharmacists, etc.). The OET score equivalences for each level are set out in LIN 18/043 in terms of OET grades (A, B, C+).