News
Australia's new language requirements
During the run up to the recent changes which were made to the Australian Skilled Migration system, there were a number of misleading stories circulating
Some media outlets have announced that the English language requirements for English speaking applicants have been 'relaxed', therefore making it easier for Brits to score more points towards their application.
However, while it is true that you can now score a maximum of 25 points under the new language criteria, compared to only 20 through the previous system, this cannot be achieved without scoring at least 7.0 through all four components of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam. In fact, without taking this exam the maximum points an English speaking applicant can now score is 15, five less than before - so if anything the rules have been tightened, not loosened.
Among the other key amendments which have been made to the Australian system are:
- Changes to how the skilled visa categories are structured;
- Same sex partners can now be included as a dependent on general skilled visa applications;
- Increased points will be awarded for an applicant having had previous Australian work experience;
- The same work experience requirements - at least 12 months in the two years preceding the lodgement of applicant - will apply for all occupations; and
- All Skilled migration visas will be able to be applied for automatically.
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15 October 2007