Completing a psychotherapy degree in Australia offers international students not only the chance to pursue a meaningful career but also multiple visa pathways to extend their stay and work in the country.
Learn more about what is psychotherapy.
Australia recognizes mental health as a priority sector, and qualified psychotherapists are in high demand across healthcare, education, NGOs, and private practice.
Key Visa Options After Graduation
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
Post-Study Work Stream: Open to graduates of CRICOS-registered psychotherapy programs.
Validity: 2–4 years depending on qualification and location.
Benefits: Full-time work rights and practical career experience.
Skilled Migration Pathways
Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
Subclass 491 – Regional Skilled Visa
Employer-Sponsored Visas
Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage Visa
Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (pathway to PR)
Permanent Residency (PR) Options
Graduates with PACFA or ACA-accredited qualifications strengthen their chances for skilled migration or employer-nominated PR.
Explore career pathways and job outcomes.
Why Visa Pathways Are Attractive for Psychotherapy Graduates
Mental health sector is a high-priority area in Australia.
Clear student visa → post-study work visa → PR progression.
Regional graduates enjoy longer post-study work rights.
Wide work opportunities: hospitals, schools, NGOs, corporate wellness, and private practice.
Discover why study psychotherapy in Australia.
Eligibility Snapshot for Post-Study Work Visa
Minimum 2 years of CRICOS-registered study.
Must hold a valid student visa during study.
Meet English proficiency requirements.
Pass health and character checks.
Visa Application Costs (Approximate)
Subclass 485 Visa: AUD 1,895 (primary applicant)
Dependants: AUD 475 – 950 each
Additional Costs: Health checks, police clearance, certifications
Career Pathways While on a Post-Study Work Visa
Graduates can:
Work in hospitals, clinics, or community health centers.
Gain experience in schools, NGOs, or private practice.
Accumulate supervised clinical hours for PACFA/ACA registration.
Explore regional roles to increase skilled migration points.
Student Experience & Professional Transition
Living in Australia post-study allows graduates to:
Build professional networks in the mental health sector.
Access career mentoring, internships, and placements.
Balance academic and work commitments with Australia's vibrant lifestyle.
Visit Study Psychotherapy for support in course and visa planning.
How to Apply
Complete a CRICOS-registered psychotherapy program.
Prepare documents: transcripts, passport, health insurance, English results.
Apply online for Subclass 485 Visa.
Plan career progression through skilled migration or sponsorship pathways.
Register with PACFA or ACA to strengthen career options.
Final Thoughts
A psychotherapy degree in Australia opens doors not just to professional success but also to long-term settlement. With post-study work visas, skilled migration, and employer sponsorship, international students can build rewarding careers and pathways to permanent residency.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Psychotherapy Career
At Study Psychotherapy, we assist international students with every stage of their journey, from program selection and visa applications to career planning. You can apply now for your preferred program or request a callback to map out your migration strategy. Start your journey today and take the first step toward building a successful career in psychotherapy.