Get ready to apply for permanent residency (PR) in Australia. Then, your IELTS score will have a significant impact on your overall chances of being approved and obtaining a visa. One of the most important parts of Australia's points-based immigration system is how well you speak and write English. The IELTS is often used to show this.
In this post, we're gonna give you the insights into the Australia IELTS band requirement for PR, how it affects your skilled migration points, and what scores you need for each type of visa in 2025.
What Is IELTS and Why Is It Important for Australia PR?
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a good way to see how well you speak and write English. This is known by people everywhere. Oxford English Tests, IDP: IELTS Australia, and the British Council all offer it. It checks your English speaking, writing, listening, and reading skills in four major areas.
If you want to live in Australia permanently (PR) or want to study in Australia, you have to take the IELTS test. If you want to move to Australia permanently or as a trained worker, the Department of Home Affairs needs proof that you can read and write English. This is because most people talk to each other in English. At this point, IELTS is a necessary step.
IELTS offers two versions of the test: Academic and General Training.
The General Training module is the right choice for getting Australian PR. It checks how well you can use English in social and professional settings, which is exactly what immigration officials look for in people who want to live in the country. The Academic part is only needed if you want to study at an Australian university or get some professional licenses. It is not needed if you want to move to Australia.
So, if your goal is immigration, choose IELTS General Training when booking your test.
Minimum IELTS Score Required For Australia PR Visa
One of the most important things you need to be able to do if you want to get Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia is speak and understand English. This is what the Australian Department of Home Affairs says about English skills: competent, expert, and excellent. Each level gives you PR points and is based on a different IELTS band score.
IELTS Band Score Requirements for PR Eligibility
Proficiency Level | IELTS Score (Each Band) | Meets PR Eligibility? | PR Points Awarded | What It Means? |
Competent | 6.0 | Yes | 0 | Basic requirement for most skilled visas. |
Proficient | 7.0 | Yes | 10 | Strong communication skills. |
Superior | 8.0 | Yes | 20 | Advanced-level English fluency. |
Score | Eligible for PR? | PR Points Gained | Impact on PR Application |
6.0 in all bands | Yes | 0 points | Meets minimum criteria, but offers no language points. |
7.0 in all bands | Yes | 10 points | Boosts your score significantly. |
8.0 in all bands | Yes | 20 points | Maximises your language-related points. |
IELTS Requirements by Visa Subclass (2025 Updates)
Different types of Australian PR visas have different requirements for English language skills. Some visas may have less strict or stricter standards, but for most skilled migration routes, you need to get at least a 6.0 in each IELTS band. It is important to have clarity on this if you wish to get Australian Citizenship.
The table below outlines the latest IELTS requirements for Australia PR by visa subclass for 2025.
Visa Subclass | Visa Type | Minimum IELTS Requirement |
189 | Skilled Independent | 6.0 in each band (Competent English) |
190 | Skilled Nominated | 6.0 in each band (Competent English) |
491 | Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) | 6.0 in each band (Competent English) |
485 | Graduate Temporary (485) | Overall 6.5 + ≥5.5 in each band (changed in 2024) |
489 (legacy) | Skilled Nominated/Sponsored (Provisional) | 6.0 in each band (Competent English) |
132 / 891 / 890 | Business / Investor Visas | Varies by stream; generally at least 5.0 in each band (functional English) |
Partner / Parent | Family Reunion Visas | Usually exempt or varies depending on subclass (check if English is required) |
Notes:
- Skilled visas (189, 190, 491, legacy 489) require Competent English—minimum 6.0 in each IELTS band.
- The 485 Graduate visa now requires a stricter English threshold (Overall 6.5, ≥5.5 in each band)—a recent change effective from 23 March 2024.
- Business & Investor streams typically demand functional English (~5.0+), but exact requirements depend on visa specifics .
- For Family reunion visas, English may be exempt or flexible, but it’s important to verify requirements for your specific subclass.
IELTS Score and Australia’s Points-Based PR System
To get into Australia, most types of skilled visas, such as Subclass 189, 190, and 491, are based on points. A candidate gets points for things like their age, schooling, work history, English language skills, and more. You can apply for PR and have a chance of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through SkillSelect if you also have these points.
To be qualified for PR, you need to get at least 65 points. The higher your score, the more likely it is that you will be called to the competitive selection rounds.
Your IELTS score plays a direct role in your total points:
IELTS Band Score | English Level | PR Points |
6.0 in all bands | Competent | 0 points |
7.0 in all bands | Proficient | +10 points |
8.0 in all bands | Superior | +20 points |
One more point not only means you know the language better, but it also adds essential points that can help you get above 65 points.
Read More: How to Increase PR Points in Australia
Your education level also plays a crucial role in determining your Australia PR points:
Education Level | PR Points Awarded |
Doctorate degree (PhD) from a recognized institution | 20 points |
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree | 15 points |
Australian diploma or trade qualification | 10 points |
Note: Only a Doctorate degree qualifies for the full 20 points. Both Bachelor's and Master's degrees are awarded 15 points under the points-based immigration system.
Here’s how points are typically awarded across categories:
Category | Maximum Points |
Age (25–32 years) | 30 |
English Proficiency (IELTS 8.0) | 20 |
Skilled Work Experience (outside Australia) | 15 |
Skilled Work Experience (in Australia) | 20 |
Educational Qualifications | 20 |
Australian Study Requirement | 5 |
Study in Regional Australia | 5 |
Accredited Community Language | 5 |
Professional Year in Australia | 5 |
State or Territory Nomination (190 visa) | 5 |
Relative or Regional Sponsorship (491 visa) | 15 |
Spouse/Partner Qualifications | Up to 10 |
Note: Your husband or de facto partner may get 5–10 extra points if he or she meets certain standards, like being a certain age, having certain skills, and speaking English well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even people who are very good at what they do don't always get the IELTS score they want because they do things wrong. If you want to get Australian PR, don't make these mistakes. They will cost you time, money, and chances.
1. Taking the Wrong Test Module
A lot of people book the Academic module instead of the General Training module, which is what is needed for most types of PR visas. If you want to immigrate, you should always choose IELTS General Training.
2. Underestimating the Time Needed for Preparation
You won't do well on the IELTS just because you speak English well at home. You need to know how to fill out test forms and have well-structured answers for this test. Start getting ready at least 4–6 weeks ahead of time, especially if you want to get into Band 7 or higher.
3. Failing to Aim for Higher Bands
Aiming just to meet the minimum 6.0 in each band may leave you with 0 language points. This limits your overall score in the points-based system. Aim for Band 7 or 8 to gain 10–20 valuable PR points.
4. Neglecting One Weak Section
All four modules are equally important. Scoring high in three sections won’t make up for one weak band below the required score. Focus on your weakest skill early on, and consider the One Skill Retake (OSR) option if you narrowly miss in one area.
5. Ignoring Test Format and Timing
Some people do poorly on tests since they don't know how they are set up or how long they have to finish. Try taking practice tests that are the same length as the real test. This will help you feel better about yourself and speed up.
6. Not Checking Score Validity Before Application
IELTS scores for PR are only valid for 2 years. Submitting an expired score will result in automatic rejection. Double-check the issue date before lodging your visa application.
7. Relying Too Heavily on Free Content Without Feedback
Free sites and movies on YouTube are helpful, but they don't always let you leave comments. You can hire a guide, take a class, or use tools that look over your speaking and writing samples if you feel like you've hit a wall.
Conclusion
It is possible to change your life by getting Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia. Your IELTS number is a big part of that process. Your success depends on how well you do on the IELTS General Training test. We use this test to ensure you meet the basic standards and achieve high scores on the Skilled Migration Points Test. This is essential even if you wish to get a student Visa for Australia.
Know the minimum scores for each type of visa, set reasonable goals, and plan how you will prepare for all four language skills. This will increase your chances of being invited to apply. Stick to your training plan and don't make the same mistakes. This will help you stay ahead in a very competitive process.
If you're looking for the best IELTS coaching in Ahmedabad, Visafast Migration Consultancy is here to guide you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Minimum IELTS score for skilled migration Australia?
It is necessary to get at least a 6.0 on the IELTS General Training test in all four bands in order to get most types of Australian PR cards. It's called "Competent English," and it's good enough to get by. It doesn't help you get points on the Skilled Migration Points Test, though.
2. Is IELTS mandatory for PR in Australia?
Yes, proof that you can speak and write English well is needed for most skilled migration cards. One of the most popular tests that people take is the IELTS. To get PR, you'll need to show that you can speak and write English well enough (IELTS 6 in each band). But they also take the PTE, the TOEFL iBT, and the Cambridge C1 Advanced.
3. Can I apply for PR in Australia through IELTS with 6 band?
Yes, you can. You need to get at least a 6.0 in each IELTS band if you want to live in Australia for good. This level of English is considered good enough to meet the minimum requirements for many types of skilled visas, such as Subclass 189, 190, and 491. Although a score of 7 or 8 can get you 10–20 extra points, you won't receive any PR points for your English proficiency.
4. Do I need to take General or Academic IELTS for PR?
For PR and immigration purposes, you must take the IELTS General Training test. The Academic module is intended for students applying to universities or for professional registration, and it is not accepted for skilled migration visa applications.
5. How does IELTS score affect my Australia PR application?
Your IELTS score is a direct factor in how many points you get on Australia's Skilled Migration Points Test.
Here's how:
- IELTS 6.0 = 0 points
- IELTS 7.0 = +10 points
- IELTS 8.0 = +20 points
Getting better grades can help your ranking and make it more likely that you will get an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.
6. Is PTE accepted for Australia PR instead of IELTS?
The Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) can be used instead of the IELTS for Australian PR. For the Department of Home Affairs, the scores must meet the minimum standards for Competent, Proficient, or Superior English. The academic version must be used. There are also tests like the TOEFL iBT, the OET (for healthcare workers), and the Cambridge C1 Advanced that can be used.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Immigration laws and policies may change over time, so we strongly recommend consulting a registered migration agent or legal professional before making any visa application.
