Australia Exempts English Test for Subclass 192 Visa Applicants

Australia's Department of Home Affairs has established exemptions for the English language proficiency requirement for the Pacific Engagement visa (subclass 192) in 2026. This visa is available to citizens of Pacific island countries and Timor-Leste, allowing them to live and work in Australia permanently.

Applicants must be selected through a ballot before applying for the visa. The English language requirement can be satisfied if the applicant or their spouse or de facto partner meets one of the following conditions: graduated from secondary school in a Pacific island country, worked in Australia for 12 months on a visa with work rights, studied in Australia for a total of 12 months or more, worked or studied for 12 months in the UK, USA, Canada, or New Zealand, or completed an approved English language test with the required score within three years prior to application.

The exemption can also apply through a partner, allowing flexibility for applicants who do not meet the criteria themselves.