At the time of lodgement of skilled independent subclass 189 and government sponsored 190/ 491 visas the primary applicant and all dependent family members must pay visa application charge. There may be a second instalment payable for some applicants before a decision is made on the application.
In what circumstances do secondary applicants need to pay the second instalment of Subclass 189/190/491 visa application fee?
For individuals who have attained the age of 18 at the time of applying for a Subclass 189/190/491 visa and have been determined to not possess functional English proficiency, a second instalment of the visa application fee in the amount of A$4885 is required.
How do I fulfil the Functional English requirement?
To demonstrate your proficiency in English, you can provide documentation of any of the following:
1. Possession of a valid passport issued by the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Canada, New Zealand, or the Republic of Ireland, along with proof of citizenship. Please note that British National (Overseas) passports are not acceptable as evidence of functional English proficiency.
2. Completion of a degree, higher degree, diploma, or trade certificate from an institution in or outside Australia, which required a minimum of two years of full-time study, and where all instructions were conducted in English.
3. Education at the following types of institutions, with specific study duration requirements:
– Primary and secondary schools where all instruction was conducted in English, whether located in Australia or elsewhere, necessitating all years of primary school and at least three years of secondary study.
– A secondary school, whether inside or outside Australia, where all instruction was conducted in English, requiring a minimum of five years of study.
– An institution in Australia where all instruction was conducted in English, requiring at least one year of full-time study towards an award.
– An institution in Australia where all instruction was conducted in English, with part-time study equivalent to one year of full-time study towards an award.
4. Achieving one of the specified test results within the 12 months preceding your visa application, with the following score requirements:
– International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic or General Training: An average band score of at least 4.5, based on the four test components.
– Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based Test (TOEFL iBT) – Only accepted if taken on or before 25 July 2023: A total band score of at least 32, based on the four test components of speaking, reading, writing, and listening.
– Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): A total band score of at least 30, based on the four test components.
– Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): A total band score of at least 147, based on the four test components.
The Department accepts scores from approved tests undertaken at secure test centres. If you have questions about a particular test, you can contact the test provider.
If you require assistance with your visa application process, book an appointment with Heenan & Browne Visa Migration Services. Our registered migration agents have the required expertise and experience to help you achieve your migration goal.