What is an Australian MATES Visa for Indians?

 

On May 23, 2023, Australia and India signed a bilateral framework named “the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA)”. The main goal of this program is to address concerns about irregular and illegal migration while encouraging and supporting two-way migration between Australia and India.

Under MMPA, a new program, Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES),” was created to allow Indian university graduates and early-career professionals to temporarily migrate to Australia. The major objective of MATES is to promote knowledge and talent exchange between Australia and India that will benefit both countries.

 

“Australia and India are close mates, and this pilot will bring us even closer through an invaluable exchange of skills, talent, and development opportunities.”

-Andrew Giles

The Australian MATES visa presents a distinctive chance for Indian graduates to acquire global work exposure and enhance their professional competencies in Australia. As per the statement provided by the Indian High Commission’s spokesperson:

 

“MATES provides a flexible work visa migration pathway for young Indian graduates and professionals to apply for Australian jobs. Both sides are working to operationalize MATES at the earliest.“

 

Did you know that approximately 60,0000 candidates from India traveled to Australia in 2021-22? Moreover, under MATES, the Department of Home Affairs is anticipated to provide 3000 more temporary visas to young Indian early-career professionals. So, this is an ample opportunity for Indian graduates to work in Australia. 

Are you dreaming of grabbing this amazing opportunity and don’t know where to start? Hold on. Read this blog post to discover the answers to your questions related to the eligibility criteria, application process, and cost of an Australian MATES visa. Before moving towards the details, let’s start with the basics.

 

What is the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES)?

Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme or MATES is a new migration pathway for Indian graduates and skilled professionals having essential skills and work experience in a specific industry. Under this visa, you can stay or work in Australia for up to two years. Moreover, the primary candidates can also bring their dependents or spouses to the MATES visa program. Here is the list of eligible professions for the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme;

• Engineering
• Mining industry
• Renewable energy
• Artificial intelligence
• Financial technology
• Agricultural technology
• Information and communication technology

Remember: This is a temporary visa and is not part of the plans for Australia’s permanent immigration program.

 

Eligibility Criteria for Australian MATES Visa

It is important to gain knowledge about the basic requirements of an Australian MATES visa, including age, academic qualifications, career status, and language proficiency. Let’s discuss them in depth for better understanding.

• Age: To be eligible for an Australian MATES visa, you must be under 31 years of age. This age diversity is a reflection of the MATES program’s dedication to nurturing young talent.
• Recent Graduation: It is important to note that the applicants must complete their graduation from an authorized and well-reputed Indian university.
• Qualifications: Candidates must obtain work experience in the eligible occupations related to their academic qualifications.
• No Previous Involvement: In order to maximize the number of people who benefit from MATES, past enrollment for this program is prohibited.
• Career Status: It is essential that the candidates must be in the early stages of their professional careers in order to submit an application for an Australian MATES visa.
• English Language Proficiency: English language proficiency is important to apply for an Australian MATES visa. Candidates must obtain at least a 6.0 IELTS score with no band less than 5 points.

After gaining insights into the requirements for an Australian MATES visa, let’s move together towards the practical application procedure.

 

Application Process for Australian MATES Visa

The visa application process for the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) involves a series of steps that you need to follow carefully. Understanding these steps is essential for getting your ticket in Australia. These steps include;

1. Check your eligibility criteria
2. Get skills assessment
3. Submit an expression of interest
4. Get an invitation to apply
5. Fill out the application form

Let’s discuss them one by one;

1. Check Your Eligibility Criteria

It is very important to check your eligibility before applying for this visa. By now, you have understood the essential requirements to apply for an Australian METAS visa. Check your eligibility criteria and then proceed to the next step.

2. Get Skills Assessment 

Skills Assessment is the most sensitive and critical stage in the Australian visa application process. So, you must be aware of its conditions and requirements in order to get a positive outcome. It assesses your skills depending on your educational qualifications and relevant work experience. 

Here is a piece of information for you: You need to understand that the Department of Home Affairs maintains high immigration standards and puts stringent measures in place to ensure the well-being of the Australian community. Skills assessment is one measure that assesses the candidate’s skills and qualifications for their nominated occupation.

If you are confused about skills assessment, consider taking advice from professionals. You can also contact us at The Migration to help you get a positive skills assessment for a successful visa application.

3. Submit Your Expression of Interest (EOI)

Now it’s time to express your interest, and to do this, you have to register yourself on a designated platform. Register your Expression of Interest (EOI) to show your determination to participate in the MATES program.

4. Get an Invitation to Apply

The Department of Home Affairs will assess your skills assessment and EOI. After thorough analysis, you will get an invitation from the Department to lodge a visa application for the MATES program. 

Keep in mind that patience is the key here; wait for your invitation to apply and respond promptly after getting it. 

5. Fill Out the Application Form

Gather your necessary documents and evidence related to your application. Fill out the application form correctly and attach the required documents to it. Remember that providing bogus documents or misleading information can lead to visa refusal or cancellation in Australia.

 

What are the benefits of Australia’s MATES Visa?

An Australian MATES visa offers numerous benefits for Indian graduates as compared to other visa options. Have a look at the advantages of an Australian MATES visa;

1. Duration

The Australian MATES visa allows candidates to reside and work in Australia for two years. Candidates can enter and exit Australia freely without restriction with the MATES visa during this time period.

2. Annual visa cap

The Australian MATES visa aims to grant 3000 temporary visas to skilled and young professionals each year.

3. Better work exposure

Professionals traveling to Australia on a MATES Visa have the opportunity to obtain excellent international work experience.

4. Visa Extension 

If you want to extend your visa in Australia, you can apply for another visa that will allow you to stay in Australia temporarily or permanently. Remember that you can only apply for an Australian MATES visa once.

5. Inclusion of Family Members 

You can bring your dependents, such as dependent children and spouses. These dependents will not be included in the annual cap and will have the ability to work in Australia. This step is important for supporting family unity and harmony.

6. Sponsorship Requirement 

Candidates possessing an Australian MATES visa are able to relocate to Australia for employment purposes without the need for employer sponsorship. This removes a major obstacle to international prospects, allowing young professionals to go to Australia freely and broaden their perspective.

Major Update

Due to the ongoing development of an Implementation Protocol, the precise launch date of MATES is yet to be finalized. The program’s procedures will be outlined in the Implementation Protocol, which will uphold the integrity of the Scheme while guaranteeing diversity, justice, and equal access to all candidates.

 

Cost of an Australian MATES Visa

The fee for an Australian MATES visa has not yet been finalized. It is anticipated that further details regarding the visa subclass and related application costs will be accessible soon. However, the addition of more dependent family members to the MATES visa application may incur an additional cost. Moreover, other application-related expenses, such as the cost of an English language test, will be covered by the applicants.

 

How Can The Migration Help You with an Australian MATES Visa?

The Migration is an authorized company with a team of experts and MARA-certified agents in Australia. We are experienced in providing help related to visa applications and offer genuine consultation services to our clients. We understand how the Australian immigration program works and provide customized solutions according to the latest laws and regulations. 

Whether you are struggling with checking your eligibility status or need professional assistance in getting a positive skills assessment outcome, we have got you covered. Therefore, book an appointment now and let us help you get your desired Australian visa.

 

FAQs

How long can I stay in Australia under a MATES visa?

The first time you enter Australia on a MATES visa, you can stay for 12 months in the country. After that, you are allowed to stay for 24 months because this visa allows multiple entries into the country.

Can I bring my family members to Australia under the MATES program?

Yes, you can bring your dependents, including your partner and children, to Australia under the MATES visa program. Dependents will be eligible for employment and will not be subject to the yearly cap in Australia.

Which activities are allowed under an Australian MATES visa?

MATES visa holders can reside and work in Australia for a maximum of two years. Although working in their designated occupation is not required for visa holders, the program is intended to help young professionals develop their skills, especially in the nominated occupations.

 

Get More Information on Australian MATES Visa

Undoubtedly, Australia and India have ushered in a new era of cooperation and prosperity with the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MATES). It creates better conditions for economic expansion and closer relations between the two countries. Moreover, the Australian Government encourages recent graduates and young professionals to take advantage of this fantastic chance for both personal and social improvement.

So, what are you waiting for when you have the best opportunity to kickstart your dream journey in an advanced country like Australia? Understand the process, check your eligibility, and decide according to your skills and qualifications. If you are still confused or have queries related to the Australian MATES visa, you can contact us at The Migration for authentic and genuine consultancy at affordable rates.