Exploring Opportunities in Australia: The Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES)

The Australian Government has introduced a new pathway for young Indian professionals with the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES). This program, developed under the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement, provides Indian graduates and early career professionals the opportunity to live and work in Australia for up to two years, encouraging skills exchange and professional growth. Here is a comprehensive look at MATES and how Visamigo Lawyers can assist you in navigating this unique opportunity.

What is the MATES Scheme?

The MATES scheme enables young professionals from India to gain international experience, fostering stronger professional ties between Australia and India. Open annually to 3,000 applicants, MATES targets graduates in sectors such as renewable energy, mining, engineering, information and communication technology, artificial intelligence, financial technology and agricultural technology.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for MATES, candidates must meet the following key requirements:

• Be Selected in the MATES Ballot: Participation in the MATES visa application process begins with a random selection in the ballot. Upon selection, you will receive a Notification of Selection letter detailing the application process.

  You have 30 days from the selection date to submit your visa application online.

  Applications must be completed before the deadline specified in the notification.

• Hold a Valid Indian Passport:You must hold a valid passport issued by India at both the time of ballot registration and when applying for the visa.

• Be Outside Australia:

  Applicants must be outside Australia when:

   ·         Submitting the visa application.

  ·         The Department of Home Affairs decides on the application.

• No Previous Participation in MATES: Applicants must not have previously entered Australia on a Subclass 403 MATES stream visa.

• Educational Qualification Requirements: You need to have graduated within two years of the ballot registration opening from an eligible institution listed in the Indian Ministry of Education’s NIRF India Rankings Overall 2024 List.

   Your qualification must align with an Australian Bachelor’s degree or higher and be related to these industries:

  ·         Renewable Energy

  ·         Mining

  ·         Engineering

  ·         Information Communications Technology

  ·         Artificial Intelligence

  ·         Financial Technology

  ·         Agricultural Technology

• English Language Proficiency :You must provide evidence of English language proficiency through an accepted test, such as IELTS, PTE Academic, or TOEFL iBT.

  Minimum scores apply, and the test must have been completed within one year before submitting the application or the decision date (if proof was not provided earlier).

• Financial Support Evidence:You must demonstrate the financial capacity to support yourself and any dependents during your stay in Australia. This can be shown through:

  An employment offer from an Australian business.

  Evidence of personal savings, typically around AUD 5,000 for initial expenses.

• Health and Character Requirements : Applicants and dependents must meet health and character standards.

  Health examinations should be completed only after receiving an invitation to apply for the visa.

• Health Insurance : You are required to have adequate health insurance covering necessary treatments and transport for the entire duration of your stay in Australia.

• Genuine Temporary Stay : Applicants must intend to stay in Australia temporarily, with no plans to extend beyond the permitted period.

• No Outstanding Government Debt :If you or your dependents owe money to the Australian Government, it must be repaid or arrangements made before applying.

• Clean Immigration History: A history of visa cancellations or refusals may affect your eligibility.

   Visamigo Lawyers can help assess your eligibility and guide you in preparing a thorough application aligned with MATES program criteria.

The Ballot Application Process

Given high demand, the MATES program operates through a ballot system. Prospective applicants must register during the designated period. Selected candidates will be invited to apply for the Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (subclass 403) under the MATES stream, which permits them to work and live in Australia for up to two years.

The team at Visamigo Lawyers can support you through each step of the ballot process, ensuring clarity and compliance with all requirements.

Visa Details and Benefits

The Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (subclass 403) under the MATES program offers several key benefits:

Duration: Allows successful applicants to stay in Australia for up to two years.

Work Flexibility: Participants can engage in full-time work, with the option to explore roles beyond their specific field of study.

Family Inclusion: Dependants, including spouses and dependent children, can accompany the visa holder and have work rights in Australia.

Why Choose Visamigo Lawyers for MATES Applications?

The MATES scheme is an invaluable opportunity for young professionals to develop a strong global career foundation. Visamigo Lawyers is here to help you!

DISCLAIMER: Important notice for all our social media followers as well as website readers. Content shared here by Visamigo Lawyers and its affiliates is not to be considered as immigration or legal advice. It's intended for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional guidance. This material offers general insights (accurate at the time of posting, subject to updates) and is not exhaustive. Prior to any application, it's recommended you consult an Australian Lawyer for personalised advice. Your journey matters, so ensure you're properly informed.