Clinical Psychologist — 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 Clinical Psychologist for migration purposes is handled by: APS.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — the one listed for the nominated ANZSCO code on this site.
Clinical Psychologist × Subclass 189 — pathway overview
Clinical Psychologists (ANZSCO 272311), listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and Combined Skilled Occupation List (CSOL), are eligible for the permanent Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa. The Subclass 189 is not sponsored — it requires no employer, state, or family sponsor. Applicants submit an Expression of Interest in SkillSelect and must receive an invitation to apply before lodging. The legislative minimum points score is 65, though competitive scores are typically 90 or above given demand in this occupation category. A positive skills assessment from the Australian Psychological Society (APS) is required before submitting an EOI. Applicants must be under 45 at invitation and hold Competent English (IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent). The indicative application fee is from AUD 4,640, with processing typically 8 to 15 months. Permanent residence is granted on visa approval. 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 Clinical Psychologist
- 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 Clinical Psychologist
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.