Cualificados independientes/nominados (Subclase 189 / 190): photo and application guide
Residencia permanente para trabajadores cualificados seleccionados mediante el sistema de puntos SkillSelect. La Subclase 189 es independiente; la 190 exige nominación estatal.
Quick answer
35 × 45 mm photo · AUD $4,640 base fee · biometrics at VAC
Photo specification is the shared Home Affairs 35 × 45 mm format. Biometric capture at the VAC for most nationalities. Fee AUD $4,640 base fee + dependent fees. Processing 50% within 6-12 months from invitation; varies by occupation. Last reviewed .
Application route
| Full name | Subclass 189 Skilled Independent / Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated — visados de cualificados independientes y nominados |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Residencia permanente para trabajadores cualificados seleccionados mediante el sistema de puntos SkillSelect. La Subclase 189 es independiente; la 190 exige nominación estatal. |
| Application route | Expression of Interest (EOI) en SkillSelect, seguida de una invitación a solicitar |
| Fee | Tasa base de AUD $4,640 + tasas por personas dependientes |
| Processing time | 50% en 6–12 meses desde la invitación; varía según la ocupación |
| Biometric appointment | Sí, para la mayoría de las nacionalidades — en el centro de visados (VAC) |
| Official portal | Home Affairs — Cualificados independientes/nominados (Subclase 189 / 190) ↗ |
Photo specification
The Skilled Independent (subclass 189 / 190) uses the shared Home Affairs biometric photo standard. The same photo file works for the ImmiAccount upload and the printed copy at the VAC.
| Size | 35 × 45 mm |
|---|---|
| Head height | 32 to 36 mm chin to crown chin to crown |
| Background | plain light grey or off-white, even illumination |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed (no smile preferred) |
| Glasses | Discouraged; remove for the shot |
| Digital file | JPEG, minimum 900 × 1200 pixels |
What to watch out for with the Skilled Independent (subclass 189 / 190)
El visado Skilled Independent es la principal vía de residencia permanente para trabajadores cualificados sin empleador patrocinador. Los puntos se otorgan por edad, dominio del inglés, ocupación, experiencia laboral y formación. Las invitaciones se emiten desde el pool de SkillSelect en función de la puntuación. La foto biométrica pasa a ser la de la tarjeta de PR y se mantiene durante 5 años.
Frequently asked questions about the Skilled Independent (subclass 189 / 190)
What size photo do I need for a Skilled Independent (subclass 189 / 190)?
35 × 45 mm portrait. The Skilled Independent (subclass 189 / 190) uses the shared Home Affairs biometric photo: head 32 to 36 mm chin to crown, plain light background, neutral expression.
How much does the Skilled Independent (subclass 189 / 190) cost?
AUD $4,640 base fee + dependent fees.
How long does the Skilled Independent (subclass 189 / 190) take to process?
50% within 6-12 months from invitation; varies by occupation.
Is biometric capture mandatory for the Skilled Independent (subclass 189 / 190)?
Yes for most nationalities — at a VAC. The biometric capture happens at a VFS Global Visa Application Centre.
Can I use the same photo for an Australian passport later?
Yes if you become an Australian citizen and apply for an Australian passport. The DFAT passport specification (35 × 45 mm) matches the Home Affairs visa specification. The photo is interchangeable across these documents.
Other Australian visa categories
Prepare your Skilled Independent (subclass 189 / 190) photo
Upload a portrait — Anfas.Pro applies the Home Affairs 35 × 45 mm format automatically.