Australia has launched a new visa initiative called the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES). This scheme strengthens the professional and cultural ties with India. The MATES also provides Indian students with an exciting opportunity to live and work in Australia for up to two years, gain valuable experience in their fields, while contributing their specialised skills to the Australian industries.
The MATES visa is created on the strong people-to-people links between Australia and India. It aims to attract talented graduates and early-career professionals in high-demand sectors. The scheme offers a pathway for Indian nationals to improve their professional development and broaden their international exposure. The bilateral relations between the two countries is also strengthened using this scheme.
Eligibility and Targeted Sectors
The MATES visa targets Indian graduates and early-career professionals with expertise in fields important to the economic and technological growth of the country. The eligible sectors include the following.
- Renewable energy supporting the sustainable energy transition of Australia.
- Mining which is strengthening one of the core industrial sectors of the country.
- Engineering meeting the demands across infrastructure and manufacturing projects.
- Information and communication technology addressing Australia’s growing digital economy needs.
- Artificial intelligence. It contributes to innovation and emerging technologies.
- Financial technology supports modern financial systems and technological advancements.
- Agricultural technology enhances sustainable agriculture, food security and farming.
Professionals with qualifications and experience in these areas can use the MATES visa to get international work experience, develop specialised skills and create opportunities for long-term career growth.
Visa and Ballot Process
The MATES visa is part of the Australia subclass 403 MATES stream, allowing Indian nationals to live and work in Australia for up to two years. The Australian Department of Home Affairs will issue up to 3,000 visas every year.
A pre-application ballot is required to make the application. Candidates who are interested must first register for the ballot. Only those who are selected will be invited to apply for the visa. Without an invitation, the visa applications cannot be submitted.The first ballot for the year 2024-2025 program year opened on 9 December 2024 and closes on 7 January 2025. To get a chance in this competitve selection, candidates should get their documents ready and submit registrations.
Advantages of the MATES Visa
The MATES visa offers a unique opportunity for professionals from India. This visa helps applicants to get international exposure. This also helps them develop their practical skills in high-demand sectors and build a universal professional network. The visa offers a platform to contribute to innovative projects and experience the work culture of Australia.
The program gives access to large number of skilled graduates and early-career professionals for businessess in Australia. This brings innovation and growth in key industries. MATES supports the broader goals of Australia in addressing skill shortages and strengthening its workforce. This is done by attracting talent in targeted sectors.
How Can Croyez Immigration Help
Getting through the visa pathways can be complex. Consultants at Croyez Immigration are dedicated to guiding Indian professionals through every step of the MATES visa process. Croyez provides expert advice, personalised assistance and information. We help each applicants in understanding the eligibility and preparing the pre-application ballot registration. We also assist in submitting a successful visa application. This makes sure the application journey is smooth and successful.
Prospective applicants should consult the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme, facesheet and the How to Apply Guide for detailed information on the ballot system and the application process. With the guidance of Croyez Immigration, candidates can maximise their chances of gaining this unique opportunity to work and live in Australia.
The launch of the MATES visa highlights the growing collaboration between Australia and India in professional mobility and economic partnerships. The MATES offers a valuable gateway for international experience for Indian graduates and early-career professionals and contributes to the dynamic industries of Australia.
