Australia to Launch New MATES Migration Scheme for Indians

Australia and India come closer under new mobility arrangement. MATES to be open for applications from late 2024.

Recently, the Australian Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs Andrew Giles announced that MATES will be open for applications from late 2024. The announcement came as an official Press Release “Australia and India become closer MATES under new mobility arrangement” on February 9, 2024.

What is Australia’s MATES for Indians?

Here, MATES stands for the new Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme. Signed by Australia and India on May 23, 2023, MATES was established under the Australia-India Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement.

Who will benefit from Australia MATES?

MATES is specifically targeted at -

1. Indian university graduates, and
2. Early career professionals.

Such Indians can work in Australia for a specific period of time. This will help them acquire a job overseas in Australia. They will also get valuable experience in their field of expertise.

MATES will also benefit Australian industry sectors and businesses by providing access to India’s most talented graduates that possess in-demand skills and knowledge.

How long can I stay in Australia with a MATES visa?

You can live and work in Australia for up to 2 years.

When will MATES open for applications?

MATES will start as a pilot program. The route will be open for applications in late 2024.

How many visas will be granted to Indians under Australia MATES?

There will be 3,000 Australia visa spaces for primary applicants each year under MATES.

Am I eligible for an Australia MATES visa?

To be eligible, you must be -

• A citizen of India
• Aged 30 or less at the time of applying
• With proficiency in the English language (overall IELTS band of at least 6, with at least 5 in each of the 4 modules)
• A recent graduate (within the last 2 years from date of application) from an eligible education institution
• Hold a minimum of Bachelor’s degree in any of the 7 eligible fields

Which are the Australia MATES visa eligible fields?

There are 7 fields eligible for the MATES pathway for Indians to live and work in Australia for up to 2 years. These are -

1. Agricultural technology (AgriTech)
2. Artificial intelligence (AI)
3. Engineering
4. Financial technology (FinTech)
5. Information and communication technology (ICT)
6. Mining
7. Renewable energy

According to Australian Immigration Minister Andrew Giles, “Australia and India are close mates, and this pilot will bring us even closer through an invaluable exchange of skills, talent, and development opportunities.”

Key points

• A migration deal by the Australian government
• Only for Indian workers
• 12 months to make first entry in Australia
• 24 months’ stay in Australia from date of entry
• Multiple entries permitted
• Extend stay by applying for another visa permitting temporary/permanent residence
• Can apply under MATES 1 time. MATES participants are not eligible to take part in the Scheme more than once.
• 3,000 visa spaces (for primary applicants)
• Opens for applications in end 2024
• Processing time same as for temporary work visas
• No requirement for sponsorship from an Australian employer
• Spouses and dependent children can be added
• Dependents can work in Australia