To facilitate the mobility of young graduates with specialized degrees, and to address the illegal and irregular migration to Australia, Indian and the Down Under entered into a Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA) On 23 May 2023. As part of the MMPA, the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme or ‘MATES’ is a new scheme, to enable the temporary mobility of Indian university graduates and early career professionals.

 

What is MATES visa?

 

MATES, a visa capped at 3000 per year, is a pilot program curated especially for Indians between the age 18- 30 [inclusive] who hold a Bachelors degree or a higher qualification within the last two years in the following sectors:

 

Engineering
Information Communications Technology [ICT]
Agricultural Technology [AgriTech]
Financial Technology [FinTech]
Artificial Intelligence [AI]
Renewable Energy
Mining

 

What is unique about the MATES visa?

 

The visa allows you to live and work in Australia for 2 Years. Visa holders are free to work full-time in any field.
There is no job offer or sponsorship required of this visa and the visa holders can work for as many employers as they choose
There is no restriction on working in any specific area of region and visa holders are free to take up employment anywhere in Australia.
The visa holders can also take the spouse and dependents along on a separate visa. The dependents will have the right to work in Australia and their work rights do not count for the cap for this visa.
The visa holders get a multiple entry visa and can travel to and fro during the 2-year visa duration
The visa holders can apply for another visa permitting temporary or permanent residence, provided they meet all eligibility requirements for the visa.
Visa holders are allowed up to 12 months to make their initial entry into Australia

 

Who is eligible for apply for the MATES visa?

 

Indian citizens between the age of 18-30 [inclusive- applicants who have yet not turned 31] years.
Bachelors degree or higher qualification holders in the designated streams having completed their qualification no earlier than 2 years.
Recent degree holders from a recognised Indian University with a qualification equivalent to at least an Australian Quality Framework [AQF] Bachelors degree
English proficiency of at least 5 and in all the four sections with an overall score of 6 in one of the acceptable English proficiency tests such as IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL etc.

 

What is the fee for applying for the MATES visa?

 

Applicants for this visa will need to pay a ballot/pre-application charge of AUD$25.00, followed by the visa application charge of AUD$365.00 upon receding an invitation or being selected to apply for a visa.

 

When will the MATES visa commence?

 

The applications for MATES visa will commence on 01 November 2024.

 

How can CAANWINGS assist you for MATES visa?
  • Free Eligibility Check to determine your eligibility.
  • Consultation and advice for a professional prepared application
  • Provide English Coaching- PTE, IELTS or other acceptable English tests
  • Full range of services from signing up to visa decision.
  • Professional Representation of File with the DHA