MATES Scheme: A New Opportunity for Indian Professionals to Work in Australia

Starting December 2024, Australia introduces an exciting initiative for young Indian talent: the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES). This program, designed to address labor shortages in critical sectors like healthcare, hospitality, technology, construction, and trades, allows early-career professionals and recent university graduates from India to live and work in Australia for up to two years.

What is the MATES Scheme?

MATES is a groundbreaking scheme established under the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA), a bilateral agreement signed between Australia and India on May 23, 2023. The scheme promotes skill exchange and addresses irregular migration issues while fostering deeper ties between the two nations.

The program encourages the temporary mobility of Indian graduates and early-career professionals, offering them a platform to gain international work experience and contribute to Australia's economy.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the MATES visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Age: 30 years or younger at the time of application.
• English Proficiency: IELTS score of at least 6 overall (minimum 5 in each section) or equivalent.
• Education: Graduated within the past two years from an eligible institution.
• Field of Study: Hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher in:

• • Renewable Energy
  • Mining
  • Engineering
  • Information Communications Technology (ICT)
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Financial Technology (FinTech)
  • Agricultural Technology (AgriTech)

 

• First-Time Participation: Must not have previously participated in the MATES scheme.

Key Benefits of the MATES Visa

• No Employer Sponsorship: Applicants don’t need Australian employer sponsorship.
• Work Flexibility: Participants can work in any field while expanding their professional networks.
• Family Inclusion: Dependents (spouses and children) can accompany the visa holder with work rights.
• Multiple Entry: Visa holders can travel in and out of Australia multiple times during their 24-month stay.
• Pathway to Residency: Participants can explore other temporary or permanent visa options after their MATES visa expires.

Important Dates

Registration Period

• Opens: December 9, 2024
• Closes: January 7, 2025

Register within this timeframe to secure your spot in the MATES ballot system.

Ballot Selection Period

• Opens: January 8, 2025
• Closes: May 30, 2025

Successful applicants will be randomly selected during this period and notified with a Notification of Selection letter to proceed with their application.

Additional Details

• Program Size: The pilot program offers 3,000 places annually for primary applicants.
• Visa Duration: Valid for 24 months from the date of first entry, with a 12-month window to make the first entry.
• One-Time Participation: Applicants can only participate in the MATES scheme once.
• Costs: Visa fees and associated costs (such as English language testing) will be announced soon.

Why Choose the MATES Scheme?

The MATES scheme is an incredible opportunity for Indian professionals to:

• Gain international work experience.
• Contribute to Australia’s thriving industries.
• Build valuable global networks.

With the program addressing critical labor shortages in fields like ICT, AI, renewable energy, and engineering, it is a win-win for participants and Australia alike.

Start Your Australian Dream with Bansal Immigration Consultants

At Bansal Immigration Consultants, we’re here to help you every step of the way. From ensuring your eligibility to completing your registration and preparing your visa application, our team of experts ensures a seamless process.

Contact us today to learn more about the MATES scheme and secure your future in Australia!