MATES Visa Ballot Registration - Unlocking Opportunities for Indian Professionals

Australia’s Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) is a groundbreaking initiative under the Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (Subclass 403). Announced as part of the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA) between Australia and India on 23 May 2023, this program strengthens bilateral relations while opening doors for talented Indian graduates and professionals to work in Australia.

What Is the MATES Scheme?

The MATES scheme is a visa stream created to attract skilled Indian graduates and early-career professionals in targeted fields such as:

• Renewable energy
• Mining
• Engineering
• Information and communications technology (ICT)
• Artificial intelligence (AI)
• Financial technology (FinTech)
• Agricultural technology

This visa allows successful applicants to live and work in Australia for up to two years, with 3,000 temporary visa places available annually.

Eligibility for the MATES Scheme

To apply for the MATES visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Ballot Registration:

   • Register in a pre-application ballot to be considered for a visa place.
   • A fee of AUD $25 applies for registration.
   • Being drawn from the ballot is required to proceed with a valid visa application.

2. Age and Location:

   • Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of ballot registration.
   • Applications must be submitted from outside Australia.

3. Educational Requirements:

   • Hold a valid passport from India.
   • Graduated from a specified foreign educational institution within two years of the ballot registration period.
   • Qualifying degrees include Bachelors, Masters, Doctorates, or Postgraduate Diplomas in targeted fields.

4. English Language Proficiency:

   • Achieve a minimum IELTS score of 6 (or equivalent) within 12 months prior to application.

How Does the Ballot System Work?

The MATES program uses a ballot system to ensure a fair and transparent selection process. Eligible individuals register for the ballot, and successful registrants are randomly selected to apply for the visa. This approach ensures equal access while managing high demand for limited places.

Why Choose the MATES Scheme?

The MATES visa is more than just an opportunity to work in Australia—it’s a chance to contribute to cutting-edge industries while gaining global experience. This initiative reflects the growing partnership between India and Australia, creating pathways for skilled professionals to build their careers and foster international collaboration.

Take the First Step

The introduction of the MATES stream within the Subclass 403 visa represents a significant milestone in Australia’s migration framework. Whether you’re a recent graduate or an early-career professional in a high-demand field, the MATES program is your gateway to exciting opportunities in Australia.

Register today and take your career to the next level! For more details on eligibility, registration, or the application process, contact IME Advisors. Let us guide you through every step of your migration journey.