MATES: Australia’s new visa programme that can benefit Indian students

 


MATES: Australia’s New Visa Program Benefiting Indian Students

On May 23, 2023, Australia and India strengthened their bilateral ties through the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA), paving the way for an exciting new initiative: the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early Professionals Scheme (MATES). This program aims to support Indian students and professionals seeking opportunities in Australia, making it a game-changer for those aspiring to enhance their careers in this thriving country.

The Rise of Indian Students in Australia

Australia has become a favored destination for Indian students over the past decade, with nearly 1.2 lakh Indian students currently pursuing higher education there. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a dip in numbers (from over 115,000 students in 2019 to about 96,000 in 2022), the trend has rebounded significantly. In 2023, the number surged back to 1,24,829, and it is projected to stabilize around 1,22,202 in 2024.

Many of these students express a desire to transition from study visas to work visas after completing their studies. In response to this demand, Australia has introduced MATES, a program specifically designed to facilitate this transition for talented Indian graduates and early-career professionals.

Understanding the MATES Program

Launching in late 2024, MATES allows Indian university graduates and professionals from select institutions to apply for a Temporary Work (International Relations) (Subclass 403) visa. This visa provides the opportunity to live and work in Australia for up to two years. Notably, participants may only apply for this visa once, making it crucial for applicants to be well-prepared.

Eligibility Criteria for MATES

To be eligible for the MATES visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Age: Must be 30 years or younger at the time of application.
  • Previous Participation: Must not have previously participated in the MATES program.
  • Language Proficiency: Must demonstrate proficient English language skills, with an overall IELTS score of at least 6 (minimum of 5 in each section).
  • Educational Background: Must have graduated within two years from an eligible educational institution with a Bachelor’s degree or higher in one of the following fields:
    • Renewable Energy
    • Mining
    • Engineering
    • Information Communications Technology (ICT)
    • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
    • Financial Technology (FinTech)
    • Agricultural Technology (AgriTech)

Application Process and Visa Allocation

The MATES program will allocate 3,000 temporary visa places annually through a pre-application ballot process. This system ensures an equitable, streamlined, and transparent selection of applicants, making it easier for eligible candidates to participate in this valuable opportunity.

Bringing Dependents to Australia

Participants in the MATES program will also have the privilege of bringing their dependents—spouses and dependent children—along with them. These dependents will have work rights in Australia and will not count towards the annual visa cap, further enhancing the attractiveness of the MATES initiative for young professionals.

Mutual Benefits of MATES

MATES is not only a boon for Indian students but also serves Australia’s migration priorities. As stated by Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Assistant Minister for Immigration, the program aims to attract some of India’s most talented graduates, equipped with in-demand knowledge and skills, to contribute to Australian industries.

This initiative underscores the importance of a skilled workforce in addressing labor shortages in sectors critical to Australia's economic growth, while also providing Indian professionals with the chance to gain valuable international experience.

The MATES program represents a significant opportunity for Indian students and early-career professionals looking to establish themselves in Australia. By meeting the eligibility criteria and participating in this innovative scheme, graduates can enhance their skill sets, broaden their professional networks, and contribute to Australia’s dynamic job market.

As the program unfolds in late 2024, prospective applicants should stay informed and prepare their applications to take advantage of this unique pathway to success in Australia. The future looks promising for talented Indian professionals ready to embark on their journey Down Under!


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