New English requirement for Partner Visas
A look at the new English requirement for partner visas.
Those applying for a permanent partner visa will be required to prove their English proficiency.
Both the applicant and sponsor must provide evidence of functional English, typically by completing a recognised English Test. Alternatively, applicants can provide evidence of reasonable efforts to learn English – typically 500 hours of a recognised English Language Program.
While exact details are yet to be released, you can find more information about proving English ability on the Government website.
These new English language requirements are designed to enhance social cohesion and economic participation outcomes in Australia. By ensuring migrants can communicate in English, it is anticipated that new migrants will suffer less family violence as they’re able to seek help and speak with others. Moreover, migrants with good English ability have higher social and employability skills when living in Australia.
This requirement is expected to be implemented from mid-2021. Further details will follow.
Photo by Weyne Yew on Unsplash
