Australia Sets Conditions for English Test Waiver in Visa

The Department of Home Affairs in Australia has established five conditions under which applicants for the Pacific Engagement visa (subclass 192) can avoid the English language proficiency test. This visa provides an alternative route to permanent residency for citizens from Pacific island countries and Timor-Leste.

The waiver applies to both the primary applicant and their spouse or de facto partner. To qualify, applicants must first be selected through a government-run ballot.

The conditions to satisfy the English language requirement include: graduating from secondary school in a Pacific island country, working in Australia for a total of 12 months on a visa with work rights, studying in Australia for a total of 12 months at secondary school level or higher, working or studying for a combined total of 12 months in the UK, USA, Canada, or New Zealand, or completing an approved English language test with the required score within three years prior to the application.