Psychiatrist — Subclass 189 Pathway
Skilled Independent visa · Permanent
At a glance
- Visa
- Subclass 189 — Skilled Independent visa
- Points test
- Yes — points-tested via SkillSelect
- Sponsor
- No sponsor required
- Eligibility list
- MLTSSL
- Base fee
- from $4,640 (check immi.gov.au for current fee)
- Processing time
- ~8-15 months (median)
Skills assessment for this occupation
Assessing Psychiatrist for migration purposes is handled by: MedBA.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — the one listed for the nominated ANZSCO code on this site.
Psychiatrist × Subclass 189 — pathway overview
Psychiatrists (ANZSCO 253411) qualify for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa, listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) for independent points-tested migration. This permanent points-tested visa is available to skilled workers without employer sponsorship who achieve a competitive points score and receive a SkillSelect invitation. Psychiatrists (ANZSCO 253411) are highly sought in Australian healthcare settings specialising in mental health and psychiatric medicine. A skills assessment from the Medical Board of Australia (MedBA) with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) is mandatory, confirming overseas qualifications and training meet Australian specialist equivalence standards. Points are scored across age, English proficiency, qualifications, and work experience. English language proficiency must be demonstrated via an approved test; health and character requirements also apply. The Department of Home Affairs issues invitations periodically through SkillSelect. Government application charges and skills assessment fees apply. The Subclass 189 grants permanent residence, with Australian citizenship available after meeting the required residence period. For advice tailored to your individual circumstances, always consult a registered MARA migration agent.
Content last generated: 2026-06-26
Key requirements
High-level criteria for Subclass 189. Verify every requirement on immi.gov.au before applying.
- Under 45 years of age at invitation
- Competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent)
- Positive skills assessment in a nominated MLTSSL occupation
- Submit Expression of Interest in SkillSelect and meet pass mark (currently 65, effective competitive minimum 90+)
- Health and character requirements
Other visa pathways for Psychiatrist
- 186Details →Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Permanent employer-sponsored visa for workers nominated by an approved sponsor.
- 190Details →Skilled Nominated visa
Permanent visa for workers nominated by a state or territory government.
- 482Details →Skills in Demand visa
Employer-sponsored temporary visa (formerly TSS) for occupations on the relevant list.
- 485Details →Temporary Graduate visa
Post-study work visa for recent graduates of Australian qualifications.
- 491Details →Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa
Five-year provisional visa for workers willing to live and work in regional Australia.
- 494Details →Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa
Five-year employer-sponsored provisional visa in regional Australia, with a path to PR.
State nominations for Psychiatrist
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.