Introduction to MATES: A New Pathway for Emerging Professionals

Under the Australia-India Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA), the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) introduces an exciting new pathway to facilitate talent exchange between Australia and India. Beginning in late 2024, this initiative aims to support temporary mobility for recent graduates and young professionals from India, promoting skill-sharing and professional growth.

What is the MATES Visa?

The MATES visa offers Indian nationals who meet specific criteria the opportunity to live and work in Australia for up to two years. As part of a joint effort to enable skill and knowledge transfer, the MATES visa offers 3,000 annual spots for primary applicants, creating a valuable pathway for early-career professionals to gain international experience.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the MATES visa, applicants must:

Be aged 30 or younger at the time of application.
Demonstrate proficient English skills (minimum overall IELTS score of 6, with no less than 5 in each section).
Have graduated from an eligible institution within two years before applying.
Hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher in one of these fields:

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

Key Features of the MATES Visa

No Sponsorship Needed: Unlike many other Australian visas, the MATES visa does not require employer sponsorship, giving applicants greater flexibility.
Work Rights and Duration: Holders of the MATES visa can stay in Australia for up to 24 months, with the freedom to work across various sectors.
Family Inclusion: Dependents (spouses and children) can join the primary visa holder in Australia, with full work rights and without counting toward the annual visa cap.
Future Opportunities: While the MATES visa can be used only once, visa holders may be eligible to apply for other temporary or permanent visas afterward.

Benefits of the MATES Program

The MATES program offers young professionals the chance to:

Broaden their career prospects within a thriving Australian job market.
Build meaningful networks in key industries.
Gain invaluable international work experience that enhances their professional profile.

How Think Higher Consultants Can Help

At Think Higher Consultants, we are dedicated to guiding applicants through each step of the MATES visa process, providing tailored support including:

Eligibility Assessment: Our team will assess your qualifications and experience to determine eligibility.
Documentation Support: We ensure all essential documents, such as proof of graduation and English certification, are complete and ready.
Application Preparation: Think Higher Consultants offers expert advice to help you accurately complete your application, minimizing the chance of delays.
Post-Visa Support: From settlement advice to resources for your transition to Australia, we’re here to make your move as smooth as possible.
Career Connections: Through our network, we can help connect you with job opportunities aligned with your field and qualifications.

Why Choose Think Higher Consultants?

With extensive experience in migration and visa services, Think Higher Consultants has the expertise to streamline your journey to Australia. Whether you have questions about eligibility or need step-by-step support, our team is here to assist.

Conclusion

The MATES visa presents an exceptional opportunity for young Indian professionals to experience Australia’s dynamic work culture while expanding their skillset. Let Think Higher Consultants be your trusted partner on this journey—reach out to us today to start your MATES application with confidence!

Eligibility Criteria Summary:

Primary applicants must:
- be outside Australia when the application is made;
- currently not and have not previously been in Australia as the holder of a Subclass 403 (Temporary Work (International Relations)) visa in the MATES stream;
- hold a valid passport issued by the Republic of India;
- be between 18 and 30 (inclusive);
- register to take part in a visa pre-application process/ballot for that country;
- satisfy language requirements specified by a different legislative instrument;
- hold a qualification which relates to an industry and was conferred or awarded by a foreign educational institution specified by the Minister in a different legislative instrument
Secondary applicants for a Sc 403 visa in the MATES stream can be in or outside Australia, but not in immigration clearance
Primary and secondary applicants will need to meet PIC 4005 and if the applicant has turned 18 at the time of application PIC 4019
Primary visa holders in the MATES stream will be subject to the following conditions:
- condition 8303 – the visa holder must not become involved in activities disruptive to, or violence threatening harm to, the Australian community or a group within the Australian community;
- condition 8501 – the visa holder must maintain adequate health insurance; and
- condition 8516 – the visa holder must continue to be a person who satisfies the primary or secondary criteria, as the case requires, for the grant of the Subclass 403 MATES stream visa.
- Conditions 8301, 8502, 8503, 8525 and 8526 may be imposed.