AEWV Update: English Language Requirements Extended to Skill Level 3 Roles
From 1 June 2026, Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) minimum English language requirements will apply to ANZSCO and NOL skill level 3 occupations.
Current Requirements
Currently, AEWV applicants at ANZSCO or NOL skill level 4 or 5 must demonstrate they can speak and understand English. This can be met through citizenship, previous work or study in English, or by completing an approved English language test.
What’s Changing from 1 June 2026
From 1 June 2026, this English language requirement will extend to include applicants in skill level 3 roles.
Global Workforce Seasonal Visa and Peak Seasonal Visa AEWV applications are exempt from the minimum English requirement. The requirement also does not apply to Job Change applications.
Transitional Arrangements
No one currently holding an AEWV will be affected retrospectively while their visa remains valid.
- Applicants with an AEWV expiring on or before 1 December 2026 will be exempt from the new English language requirement when applying for a further AEWV at skill level 3.
- Applicants who have already provided evidence of English language ability in a previous AEWV application will also be exempt.
Impacts for Employers
These changes are expected to affect recruitment and retention across sectors such as construction, trades, and primary industries.
Employers may experience reduced applicant pools where candidates must meet both technical and English language requirements. Additional costs may arise, including testing, processing time, and support for migrant workers.
Existing skill level 3 AEWV workers will need to meet the new English language requirements when renewing visas. Challenges may also arise where workers transition to residence after the maximum five-year AEWV period and must meet higher language thresholds again.
What Employers Should Do
Members are encouraged to act early where migrant workers have visas expiring on or before 1 December 2026, to support retention and workforce continuity.
For more information on these changes, please click here.
