New Visa Pathway for India: Exploring the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-Professionals Scheme (MATES)
On 23 May 2023, Australia and India entered into a new visa scheme which has finally come to fruition. The Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-Professionals Scheme (MATES) is a program designed to connect bright young minds with exciting opportunities in Australia.
What is the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-Professionals Scheme?
The Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-Professionals Scheme (MATES) is a collaborative effort between participating countries to promote the international exchange of skilled early-career professionals. Under the MATES framework, eligible individuals are provided with opportunities to live, work, and gain valuable experience in partner countries for a specified period.
One of the most appealing requirements of MATES is that there will be no requirement for sponsorship by an Australian employer to be eligible to apply for a visa as part of MATES. Applicants can apply on their own merits.
Who can participate?
MATES is open to Indian Nationals who are university graduates and early career professionals under the age of 30. Participants must have graduated within two (2) years at the time of application.
Participants must have proficient English language skills (overall IELTS or equivalent score of at least 6, with a minimum score of 5 for each of the four parts).
Participants must not have participated in MATES previously.
MATES will commence as a pilot program with 3,000 places for primary applicants per program year
Variety of Opportunities
MATES offers a wide range of opportunities for participants, including internships, work placements, research projects, and cultural exchanges.
Eligible fields include:
- renewable energy,
- mining,
- engineering,
- information and communication technology,
- artificial intelligence,
- financial technology, and
- agricultural technology.
Duration of Stay
The duration of participants’ stay allows them to live and work in Australia for up to two years. This period of time will allow participants to immerse themselves fully in the host country’s culture, work environment, and community and allow employers time to benefit from their work.
Participants will be able to apply to bring dependants (spouses and dependent children). Dependants will have work rights in Australia, and will not count towards the annual cap.
Cultural Exchange
MATES fosters cross-cultural understanding and appreciation by enabling participants to immerse themselves in the host country’s culture, language, and customs. This cultural exchange not only enriches participants’ personal lives but also promotes mutual understanding and cooperation between nations.
Conclusion
The Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-Professionals Scheme (MATES) represents a unique opportunity for aspiring professionals to embark on an exciting journey of discovery, learning, and growth on the global stage.
By facilitating international mobility and fostering cross-cultural exchange, MATES not only benefits individual participants but also benefits employers during a time where workers are in short supply and desperately needed.
The Department has not yet begun taking applications, but participants may wish to begin preparing their language testing and documentation in advance. Further information about MATES is available on the Department of Home Affairs website at Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early – professionals Scheme (MATES).
Contact Visa Australia for an appointment today to disucss your options with the new visa pathway.
