Australia Extends a Hand of Friendship to Become ‘Mates’ with India
With the signing of the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA) between India and Australia on May 23, 2023, a groundbreaking opportunity has emerged for young professionals. Australia has introduced a new visa stream under the Temporary Work (International Relations) (Subclass 403) visa. Known as the Mobility Arrangements for Talented Early-Professionals Scheme—or simply the MATES Visa—this initiative seeks to attract skilled young professionals from India, fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting new visa stream.
What is the MATES Visa?
The MATES Visa is a Subclass 403 visa aimed at facilitating the short-term mobility of skilled young Indian professionals to Australia. It allows participants to live and work in Australia for up to two years, encouraging the exchange of expertise in high-demand sectors, such as:
Renewable Energy
Mining
Engineering
Information Communications Technology (ICT)
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Financial Technology (FinTech)
Agricultural Technology (AgriTech)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Age: Must be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of application.
Nationality: Must hold Indian citizenship and possess a valid Indian passport.
Education: Must have graduated within the past two years with a bachelor’s degree or higher in an eligible field from a recognized institution in India or overseas.
English Proficiency: A minimum overall IELTS score of 6, with no less than 5 in any component, is required.
One-Time Participation: Individuals who have previously participated in the MATES Visa program are not eligible to apply again.
Application Process
Register for the Ballot: Interested candidates must register online when the ballot opens, paying a non-refundable fee of AUD $25. Registration is only allowed once per ballot.
Random Selection: Candidates are selected randomly by the system.
Notification: Selected candidates will receive a "Notification of Selection" letter from the Department of Home Affairs, detailing the steps for visa application.
The application must be completed online within 30 calendar days.
Applicants must use the same passport as was used during ballot registration and be outside Australia when applying.
Non-Selection: Those not selected in the ballot cannot apply for the visa but may register for future ballots if they continue to meet eligibility criteria.
Availability and Costs
The MATES Visa program launches on November 1, 2024, with 3,000 places available annually for Indian nationals. The ballot for applications opens in December 2024 (exact date to be announced).
Visa Costs:
Primary Applicant: AUD $365
Dependents (18 years and older): AUD $365
Dependents (under 18): AUD $95
Key Features of the MATES Visa
No Sponsorship Required: Unlike many work visas, the MATES Visa does not require sponsorship from an Australian employer.
Flexible Work Options: While participants are encouraged to work in their field of expertise, they can explore other opportunities and regions.
Visa Validity: The visa allows for multiple entries and stays of up to 24 months, with a 12-month window to make the first entry into Australia.
Family Inclusion: Participants can bring their spouses and dependent children, who will also have work rights in Australia.
Future Pathways
MATES Visa holders may have the potential to transition to other temporary or permanent residency visas, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
Why Consider the MATES Visa?
The MATES Visa is an exceptional opportunity for young Indian professionals to gain international work experience, contribute to growing industries in Australia, and build lasting professional networks. Whether the goal is to return to India with enhanced skills or explore further pathways in Australia, this program offers a unique stepping stone for early-career professionals.
Ready to start your journey? Reach out to a trusted immigration lawyer today and take the first step toward becoming honorary "mates" with Australia!
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Ready to Take the Next Step?
Don’t miss this unique chance to expand your horizons, gain valuable international work experience, and contribute to Australia’s thriving industries. The MATES Visa is more than just a work visa—it’s a bridge connecting the vibrant talents of India with the opportunities of Australia.
If you’re ready to embark on this exciting journey, consult with one of our trusted immigration lawyers today. They can guide you through the process and help you seize this incredible opportunity.
Start your path to becoming an honorary "mate" and strengthening the bond between Australia and India! Act now to prepare for the upcoming ballot registration in December 2024!
