In last month’s federal budget, the Government announced it will implement a new mobility pathway for Indian nationals.
The Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) will provide an opportunity for 3,000 Indian Graduates and early career professionals with the knowledge and skills in targeted fields of study to live and work in Australia for up to two years. The program aims to further strengthen the ties between Australia and India by enabling participants to gain employment and valuable experience in their areas of expertise.
This scheme will also benefit some of Australia’s industry sectors and businesses by enhancing their access to some of India’s most talented graduates with in-demand knowledge and skills.
More About MATES
The Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme was established in May 2023 under the Australia-India Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA). The MMPA is a bilateral framework that supports and promotes two-way migration between Australia and India. MATES aims to encourage mutually beneficial skills and knowledge transfer between the two counties.
Who is eligible for MATES?
MATES will be open to Indian nationals who:
- Are aged 30 years or younger at the time of application
- Have not previously participated in MATES
- Have proficient English language skills (overall IELTS or equivalent score of at least 6, with a minimum score of 5 for each of the four parts)
- Have graduated within two years from an eligible education institution at the time of application
- Hold a qualification (bachelor’s degree or higher) in one of the following industries:
- Renewable Energy
- Mining
- Engineering
- Information Communications Technology (ICT)
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Financial Technology (FinTech)
- Agricultural Technology (AgriTech)
Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme applicants are not required to be sponsored by an Australian employer to be eligible to apply for a visa as part of MATES.
MATES visa holders can stay in Australia for up to two years and can only participate in the program once. Should they wish to extend their stay, they will need to apply for another temporary or permanent visa ensuring they meet the eligibility requirements of that visa.
Participants of the MATES program are also able to bring dependents (spouses and dependent children). Dependents will have work rights in Australia.
Applications for MATES will be open from 1st November 2024.
To learn more about migration to Australia, contact the team of experienced registered migration agents at Visa Solutions Australia. Book a consultation.
