The Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) is a new initiative by Australia aimed at offering opportunity to work in Australia for up to two years for young professionals from India. Launched under the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA), signed on May 23, 2023, between Australia and India, MATES is designed to facilitate skilled mobility while addressing issues related to illegal and irregular migration. The scheme targets Indian university graduates and early-career professionals, providing them with valuable international work experience.
Starting in December 2023, eligible participants can apply for the program, which aims to strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations by encouraging professional exchanges and fostering talent development. The scheme will be effective from November 2024.
Overview
The MATES scheme allows Indian professionals to live and work in Australia for up to two years. While it is not mandatory to work in their field of study, the program is designed to help young professionals expand their skills and networks, especially in key sectors. Initially, the scheme will operate as a pilot with 3,000 places annually for primary applicants. Participants can bring dependents, such as spouses and children, who will have work rights in Australia but will not count towards the annual cap.
The visa holders have 12 months to make their first entry into Australia and can stay for 24 months from their first entry date. Multiple entries are allowed. Participants can extend their stay by applying for another visa if they meet the eligibility criteria. The visa will be granted through a ballot system, with a fee of AUD 25 for application.
The objective of the MATES Scheme
The objectives of the MATES Scheme 2024 are as follows:
- The primary objective of the scheme is to allow young Indian professionals and graduates to live and work in Australia for up to two years.
- The scheme aims to help participants expand their skills and networks, particularly in various sectors.
- The scheme aims to strengthen ties between Australia and India through talent exchange and professional collaboration.
- The scheme aims to provide a platform for Australia to attract skilled professionals while supporting their career growth.
Important Factors
| Name of the Scheme | MATES Scheme 2024 |
| Launched By | Government of Australia |
| Launched Under | Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA) |
| Delegated Ministry | Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology |
| Eligibility | Indian university graduates and early-career professionals |
| Benefits | This scheme offers a new temporary mobility pathway to live and work in Australia |
| Objective | To encourage mutually-beneficial skills and knowledge transfer between Australia and India |
| Duration of Stay | Up to 2 years from the first entry into Australia |
| Dependents | Spouses and children can accompany, with work rights |
| Annual Cap | 3,000 primary applicants per year in the pilot phase |
| Visa Process | Visa granted through a ballot system with a fee of AUD 25 |
| Field of Work | No strict requirement to work in the nominated field |
| Multiple Entries | Visa allows multiple entries during the 2-year stay |
| Visa Extension | Possible if eligibility for a new visa is met |
| Ballot System | Random selection process for visa applications |
| Skill Development | Designed to help participants expand skills and networks |
| Official Website | https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/ |
Duration
- Visa holders under the MATES scheme have 12 months to make their first entry into Australia. They can stay for 24 months from the date of first entry, with multiple entries allowed. Participants may extend their stay by applying for another visa for temporary or permanent residence.
Eligibility Criteria
To avail the benefits under the scheme you should satisfy the following requirements, which are as follows:
- The applicant should be a permanent resident of India.
- Applicants must be 30 years or younger at the time of application.
- Must not have participated in MATES before.
- Minimum IELTS score of 6, with at least 5 in each module.
- Must have graduated within the last 2 years from an eligible institution.
- Must hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher in fields like renewable energy, mining, engineering, ICT, AI, FinTech, or AgriTech.
- Graduates from the top 100 Indian universities (NIRF 2024 ranking) are eligible, including Punjab University, Chandigarh University, Thapar Institute of Engineering, and Lovely Professional University in Punjab.
Benefits of the MATES Scheme
The benefits of the MATES Scheme are as follows:
- Participants can live and work in Australia for up to 2 years under the scheme.
- The scheme helps young professionals expand their skills and networks.
- No strict requirement to work in the nominated field of study.
- 3,000 places available per year for primary applicants.
- Participants can bring spouses and dependent children.
- Dependents have work rights in Australia.
- Dependents’ applications do not count towards the annual cap of 3,000 places.
Required Documents
To avail of the benefits under the scheme, candidates should have the following documents:
- Aadhar Card
- Address Proof
- PAN Card
- Educational Qualification Certificate
- Job Details (if applicable)
- Passport Size Photograph
- Mobile Number
- Email ID
Salient Features
Here are the Salient Features of the MATES Scheme:
- Participants can stay in Australia for up to 2 years.
- The visa allows multiple entries into Australia.
- Open to Indian nationals aged 30 or younger with a relevant qualification.
- Aims to expand professional skills and networks, especially in specific sectors.
- Spouses and children can accompany participants, with work rights for dependents.
- 3,000 primary applicants per year in the pilot phase.
- No strict requirement to work in the nominated field of study.
- Minimum IELTS score of 6, with at least 5 in each module.
- Eligible applicants must be graduates from the top 100 universities in India.
- The visa is granted through a random ballot system with a small application fee.
Selection of Beneficiary
- Applicants must meet the age, qualification, and language proficiency criteria.
- Selection is done through a random ballot system.
- A small application fee of AUD 25 is required to apply.
- 3,000 primary applicants are selected per year for the pilot program.
- Applicants with qualifications in specific fields (e.g., renewable energy, AI, FinTech) are eligible.
- Applicants must be graduates from top 100 universities in India, as per NIRF rankings.
- Dependents (spouse/children) can also apply but will not count towards the cap.
Application Process
To apply for the scheme, please follow the below mentioned steps:
Step 1: Visit the official MATES website.
Step 2: On the homepage click on the “Apply Online” button.
Step 3: The Application form will appear on your screen.
Step 4: Fill out the application form and attach all the relevant documents.
Step 5: Click on the “Submit” button to complete the application process.
FAQs
What is MATES Scheme 2024?
The MATES Scheme allows young Indian professionals to work and live in Australia for up to 2 years.
Who is eligible to apply for the MATES Scheme?
Indian nationals aged 30 or younger, with a relevant qualification (Bachelor’s or higher) in specific fields like renewable energy, AI, FinTech, etc., and proficient in English (IELTS score of 6).
How long can I stay in Australia under the MATES Scheme?
You can stay for up to 2 years from the date of your first entry into Australia.
Can my family accompany me?
Yes, you can bring your spouse and dependent children. Dependents will also have work rights in Australia.
Is there a cap on the number of applicants?
Yes, there are 3,000 places for primary applicants per year in the pilot phase.
Do I need to work in my field of study?
No, there is no strict requirement to work in the nominated field, but the program is designed to help you expand your skills and network.
How is the visa selected?
The visa is granted through a random ballot system, with an application fee of AUD 25.
Can I extend my stay in Australia?
Yes, you may extend your stay by applying for another visa, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.