With the launch of the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES), a new visa scheme designed to assist Indian professionals and students, Australia and India have deepened their relationship. In order to reduce skills shortages in specific areas, this project permits Indian university graduates and early-career professionals to reside and work in Australia for a maximum of two years.
The Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA), which Australia and India signed on May 23, 2023, includes the MATES program. Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree or higher in a subject like renewable energy, mining, engineering, ICT, AI, FinTech, or agritech, be 30 years of age or younger, and speak English fluently.
Nearly 1.2 lakh Indian students are studying in Australia this year, with the number of students rebounding after the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs. These students have an alluring chance to improve their professional profiles and switch from a study visa to a work visa through the MATES program.
The program does not require sponsorship from an Australian company and gives 3,000 temporary immigration spots per year. Spouses and children of successful applicants may also seek to join, with the ability to work in Australia. This program encourages talent sharing and economic cooperation between the two countries.
Australia’s Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, and Multicultural Affairs, Andrew Giles MP, emphasized that MATES will attract India’s most talented graduates with in-demand skills, supporting Australia’s migration priorities. With its introduction, MATES is set to become a cornerstone of the Australia-India partnership, promoting mutual benefits and growth. The MATES program is expected to commence in late 2024, with applications selected through a visa pre-application ballot process to ensure an equitable, streamlined, and transparent process. This new visa program marks a significant step forward in fostering stronger ties between Australia and India.
