MATES is a new initiative by the Australian government to provide young Indian university graduates and early career professionals an opportunity to live and work in Australia for two years.
About MATES Scheme
- Establishment: The scheme was introduced as part of the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA), signed on May 23, 2023, between Australia and India.
- Purpose: The MMPA aims to facilitate two-way migration and address issues like illegal and irregular migration.
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Eligibility Criteria for MATES Scheme
- Age Limit: Be 30 years or younger at the time of application.
- First-Time Participants: Have not previously participated in the scheme.
- Educational Background: Hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher in one of these fields:
- Renewable Energy
- MiningEngineering
Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA)
- Australia and India entered into a Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA) in 2023.
- It is a bilateral framework that supports and promotes two-way migration and mobility between the two countries, while addressing issues pertaining to illegal and irregular migration.
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- ICT
- Artificial Intelligence
- FinTech
- AgriTech
- Graduation Timeline: Graduated within two years from an eligible educational institution.
- Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficient English skills (IELTS score of 6 overall, with a minimum of 5 in each module or equivalent).
- Top Universities: Graduates from India’s top 100 universities (as per NIRF rankings 2024) are eligible.
Key Features of MATES Scheme
- No Employer Sponsorship: Applicants do not need an Australian employer to sponsor them.
- Visa Duration: Stay of up to two years with multiple entry permissions.
- Dependents Allowed: Participants can bring their spouses and dependent children, who will have work rights. Dependents are excluded from the 3,000 annual cap for primary applicants.
- Ballot System: Applicants must pay an AUD 25 ballot fee to participate.
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- Selected candidates through the ballot proceed with formalities for visa application.
- Pilot Program: Limited to 3,000 places annually for primary applicants.
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Advantages of the Scheme
- MATES is a promising initiative for young Indian professionals to build global careers while contributing to Australia’s skilled workforce sectors.
- Flexible work opportunities, not limited to the nominated field of study.
- Opportunity to apply for other visas for an extended stay or permanent residence, subject to eligibility.
- Visa holders have 12 months to enter Australia post-approval.
November 16, 2024
