In a significant step towards fostering collaboration and skill exchange between Australia and India, the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) has been established under the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA). This bilateral framework aims to facilitate two-way migration and mobility while addressing concerns related to illegal migration. In this blog, we will delve into the key features of MATES, its eligibility criteria, permitted activities, and the potential impact on the participants and the involved nations.
Eligibility Criteria
MATES is designed to cater to Indian nationals aged 30 or younger who have recently graduated from eligible educational institutions within the last two years. Proficiency in English, as demonstrated by an overall IELTS or equivalent score of at least 6 with a minimum score of 5 in each section, is a prerequisite. The scheme targets individuals holding a Bachelor’s degree or higher in specific fields, including,
- Renewable Energy
- Mining
- Engineering
- Information Communications Technology (ICT)
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Financial Technology (FinTech)
- Agricultural Technology (AgriTech)
Notably, there is no requirement for Australian employer sponsorship, broadening the accessibility of the program to qualified individuals.
Permitted Activities
Participants accepted into MATES will have the opportunity to live and work in Australia for up to two years. Although there is no strict mandate for visa holders to work in their designated field of study, the program encourages young professionals to expand their skills and networks, particularly in the specified sectors. This flexibility allows participants to explore diverse avenues and contribute to the growth of both nations.
Program Capacity and Family Inclusion
MATES will commence as a pilot program, providing 3,000 places for primary applicants per program year. Successful applicants will have the option to bring their dependents, including spouses and dependent children, who will also have work rights in Australia. Importantly, dependents will not be counted towards the annual cap, promoting family inclusion and support.
Duration of Stay and Extension
Visa holders under MATES will have 12 months to make their initial entry into Australia and can stay for a period of 24 months from the date of their first entry. The visa allows for multiple entries, enhancing the flexibility of participants. Furthermore, individuals may extend their stay by applying for another visa, either temporary or permanent, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. However, participants are not eligible to reapply for MATES.
Financial Considerations
While details about the visa subclass and associated application fees are yet to be disclosed, applicants should be prepared to cover costs related to English language testing and potential fees for adding dependent family members to the application.
Implementation and Future Prospects
An Implementation Protocol is currently under development, outlining the operational details of MATES, ensuring diversity, fairness, and equity of access, and maintaining the integrity of the Scheme. While a specific timeframe for the implementation of MATES has not been set, the program holds promising prospects for enhancing cross-border talent exchange between Australia and India.
In conclusion, MATES not only symbolizes a dynamic partnership between nations but also offers a gateway for talented individuals to pursue their aspirations on the global stage. With the support of experienced migration consultants like Siva Visa, the journey towards realizing these dreams becomes a more streamlined and achievable endeavor. As MATES unfolds, it holds the promise of not only personal and professional growth for participants but also contributes to the strengthening of ties between Australia and India in the realm of talent and innovation.
