English language test dates confirmed for Samoa and Tonga in August 2025

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) has confirmed new General Training test dates in Samoa and Tonga for August 2025. These one-off sessions offer a rare opportunity for prospective migrants from the Pacific Islands to meet the English language requirements for various New Zealand visa categories.

Scheduled for 23 August 2025 in Samoa and 29 August 2025 in Tonga, the tests are essential for applicants who must demonstrate functional English skills, particularly those applying for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) in roles classified at ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5, as well as certain residence visa categories.

Limited test availability – act quickly

There are no permanent IELTS test centres in Samoa or Tonga. These testing dates have been arranged as one-off pop-up centres, meaning they may be the only sessions available in these locations until late 2025. Anyone intending to apply for a visa requiring proof of English language ability is strongly encouraged to register early to secure a place.

Test dates and booking links

• Samoa: Saturday, 23 August 2025 – Book IELTS in Samoa
• Tonga: Thursday, 29 August 2025 – Book IELTS in Tonga

Meeting English language visa requirements

Providing proof of English language ability is a key requirement for many New Zealand visa categories. Understanding what is required and how to meet it is essential to avoid delays or refusals.

Who must meet English language requirements?

• AEWV applicants: Those applying for jobs classified at ANZSCO level 4 or 5 must demonstrate functional English.
• Residence visa applicants: Some residence pathways, including Skilled Residence, Parent Resident, and others, also require English evidence depending on the visa stream and relationship to the primary applicant.

What counts as acceptable evidence?

Most applicants will need to sit a recognised English test. The test must be taken in person at a test centre, and results must be less than two years old at the time of visa application. At-home or remote tests are not accepted. The IELTS General Training test is widely accepted, with minimum score thresholds depending on the visa type.

• For functional English an overall IELTS General score of at least 4.0 is required for AEWV roles at ANZSCO level 4 or 5.
• Citizenship with at least five years of work or study in countries such as Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, or the USA
• A degree-level qualification completed in one of those countries
• A previous English assessment accepted by Immigration New Zealand

Why test dates matter in Samoa and Tonga

With no permanent IELTS centres in Samoa or Tonga, the upcoming August 2025 test sessions offer a limited opportunity for applicants to meet these requirements. Those unable to provide evidence will not be able to proceed with their AEWV or residence visa application. For full details on English language requirements across all visa types, visit: English language requirements 

Need expert support with workforce migration or compliance?

Navigating English language requirements and visa eligibility can be complex, especially when timing is critical. At Absolute Immigration NZ, we partner with businesses to ensure their recruitment strategies align with immigration rules.

Contact our team at aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com for strategic advice and tailored immigration solutions that support your workforce goals.