So, you’re dreaming of working in Australia, the UK, or even Japan—and then someone tells you, “You must take IELTS!” But do you really? While IELTS and similar English tests can be part of the visa process, not all countries demand them—and certainly not all jobs.
Let’s cut through the confusion and show you which countries require English proficiency tests for work visas, and which let you skip the stress (and expense!) of sitting for IELTS or TOEFL.
✅ Countries That Often Require IELTS or Equivalent for Work Visas
Following 4 countries are in my top list which require IELTS or equal test for the issuance of work visas:
1#Australia
Visa types: Subclass 189, 190, 491 (Skilled Migration)
Test requirement: Yes
Australia takes English proficiency seriously in its points-based system. To apply for skilled migration, you’ll need to prove your ability using IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English—with IELTS 6.0 or higher usually expected. Higher scores boost your points. Some employer-sponsored visas also ask for it.
2# Canada
Visa types: Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class)
Test requirement: Yes
Canada requires IELTS General Training or CELPIP for Express Entry candidates. A minimum of CLB 7 (IELTS 6.0 in each skill) is required for skilled workers. However, temporary work permits (e.g. LMIA) don’t always require it unless the employer demands proof of language ability.
3# United Kingdom
Visa type: Skilled Worker Visa
Test requirement: Yes
Unless you’re from an exempt country, you’ll need to prove B1-level English (equivalent to IELTS 4.0) using a Secure English Language Test (SELT) approved by UKVI. If your degree was taught in English, you can sometimes get a waiver—but only with ECCTIS/NARIC verification.
4# New Zealand
Visa type: Skilled Migrant Category
Test requirement: Yes
For points-based work visas, New Zealand generally expects IELTS 6.5 overall or equivalent. While Essential Skills work visas may not demand IELTS directly, employers and immigration officers can request language proof depending on the job.
❌ Countries Where IELTS is NOT Mandatory for Most Work Visas
The following 6 list of countries were checked and gladly these do not have any requirement of English language proficiency for the issuance of work visas for 2026 session:
1# Germany
Visa type: Job Seeker Visa, EU Blue Card
Test requirement: No
Germany doesn’t ask for IELTS for work visa applications. However, if you’re working in a local company, German language skills are often expected—especially in healthcare, education, or government-linked roles.
2# France
Visa type: Talent Passport, Tech Visa
Test requirement: No
There is no English or French language test requirement for the French Talent Passport, though your employer might expect you to communicate in one of the two languages.
3# Poland
Visa type: National Work Visa (Type D)
Test requirement: No
Poland allows foreign workers to apply for jobs and work visas without any proof of English. However, regulated jobs (e.g., nurses or teachers) might still require Polish proficiency.
4# Japan
Visa type: Engineer / Humanities / International Services Visa
Test requirement: No
Japan’s work visas don’t require IELTS or TOEFL. Your Japanese skills might matter more depending on the employer or sector. However, international companies and English-teaching roles may accept English alone.
5# United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Visa type: Employment Visa
Test requirement: No
No IELTS required. English is widely used in business and daily life, but your employer will decide whether they need proof of your English abilities.
6# Singapore
Visa type: Employment Pass (EP), S Pass
Test requirement: No
No formal English test is required for work permits. That said, MOE-recognized English-medium education can be advantageous, especially in sectors like finance, IT, or healthcare.
⚠️ Exceptions: Regulated Professions (e.g., Healthcare & Teaching)
Regardless of visa rules, regulated professions often demand a language test—especially when public safety or education is involved.
- Nurses, doctors, and healthcare workers in the UK, Australia, or New Zealand usually need IELTS or OET to register with medical councils.
- Teachers applying to international or state-run schools may need English proficiency tests or teaching certifications like CELTA or TEFL.
List of Countries Requiring IELTS for Work Visas in 2026
| Country | IELTS Needed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | ✅ Yes | Higher scores = more points |
| Canada | ✅ Yes | For Express Entry only |
| UK | ✅ Yes | SELT or UKVI IELTS required |
| New Zealand | ✅ Yes | 6.5 IELTS usually needed |
| Germany | ❌ No | May need German instead |
| France | ❌ No | Language decided by employer |
| Poland | ❌ No | Language depends on job |
| Japan | ❌ No | Japanese may be needed |
| UAE | ❌ No | Employer decides |
| Singapore | ❌ No | No standard test requirement |
References
- https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/meeting-our-requirements/english-language
- https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/documents/language-test.html
- https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/knowledge-of-english
- https://www.immigration.govt.nz/process-to-apply/applying-for-a-visa/providing-evidence-and-documents-to-support-your-visa-application/english-language-requirements/english-language-requirements-for-skilled-residence-visas/.
