Australia has recently introduced the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES). It’s a groundbreaking initiative designed to attract young and talented professionals from India. This scheme is part of the broader Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA) between Australia and India which aims to foster mutually beneficial skills and knowledge transfer while addressing labour shortages in key sectors. But what is it exactly?
What is MATES?
The MATES scheme allows Indian university graduates and early career professionals to live and work in Australia for up to two years. This visa is also known as the Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (subclass 403). It is specifically tailored for individuals aged 30 or younger who have graduated within the last two years with a Bachelor’s degree or higher in fields such as renewable energy, mining, engineering, ICT, AI, FinTech, and AgriTech.
Why MATES is a Game-Changer
One of the standout features of MATES is that it does not require sponsorship from an Australian employer. This makes the application process more accessible and less dependent on individual job offers allowing talented professionals to explore opportunities independently. Participants can bring their dependents, such as spouses and children, who will also have work rights in Australia without affecting the annual visa cap.
Pre-Application Ballot
To apply for the MATES visa, eligible Indian nationals must first register in the pre-application ballot. Here’s how the process works:
✅ Eligibility: You must be aged 18 to 30 at the beginning of the ballot registration period, hold a valid Indian passport, and have graduated within the last two years with a Bachelor’s degree or higher in one of the specified fields.
✅ Registration: Create an ImmiAccount and register for the ballot during the open registration period. The registration fee is AUD 25.
✅ Selection: If selected in the ballot, you will receive a Notification of Selection letter which will include instructions on how to apply for the visa.
✅ Application: After being selected, you can apply for the visa. The application fee is AUD 365.
Visa Application Process
Once selected in the ballot, here’s how to apply for the MATES visa:
✅ Prepare Documentation: Gather all necessary documents, including your passport, degree certificates, English language test results (minimum IELTS score of 6), and any other supporting documents.
✅ Submit Application: Complete the online application form and submit it along with the required documents.
✅Pay Fees: Pay the visa application fee (AUD 365) and any additional fees for including dependents.
✅ Wait for Processing: The processing time for the visa can vary, so it’s essential to apply as soon as you receive the invitation to ensure timely processing.
✅Receive Visa: If your application is successful, you will receive your visa, allowing you to live and work in Australia for up to two years.
Benefits of MATES
The MATES scheme offers numerous benefits for both Australia and India. For Australia, it helps fill labor shortages in critical sectors and promotes economic growth. For Indian professionals, it provides an opportunity to gain international work experience, expand their skill sets, and build valuable networks.
Conclusion
Australia’s Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) is a significant step towards strengthening the bilateral relationship between Australia and India. By providing a streamlined pathway for young Indian professionals to work in Australia, MATES not only benefits the Australian economy but also offers Indian graduates a chance to advance their careers on a global stage.
For those considering applying for the MATES visa, now is the perfect time to take advantage of these changes and contribute to the future of Australia’s workforce.
How Pathway to Aus Can Help
Pathway to Aus can assist you throughout the entire MATES application process. Contact us now so we can we provide you with a personalised guidance from consultation to documentation preparation, and throughout submission to application. We ensure that your application meets all requirements. Our expertise in Australian immigration laws and procedures can help streamline your visa application process and increase your chances of success.
