How Australia’s MATES visa scheme benefits Indian students with better work opportunities

METS Visa: Gateway for Indian students to work and move to Australia

Mets Visa: In a significant step to strengthen relations between India and Australia, the two countries launched the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA) on May 23, 2023. The initiative aims to promote mutual migration and facilitate skills transfer, especially in sectors important to both economies. , At the heart of this agreement lies the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-Professionals Scheme (MATES), which opens exciting new avenues for Indian students looking for better work opportunities in Australia.
The MATES program is specifically designed for Indian citizens aged 30 years and below who have recently graduated from recognized educational institutions. With the increasing number of Indian students pursuing higher education in Australia – more than 122,000 in 2024 – the scheme presents an attractive option for graduates looking to enhance their careers abroad.
gateway to career advancement
The MATES program allows Indian graduates to live and work in Australia for up to two years, providing an invaluable opportunity to gain international work experience. Participants can apply for a visa without requiring sponsorship from an Australian employer, which simplifies the application process and makes it more accessible to students.
Additionally, while participants can work in their nominated fields of study, there is flexibility in employment options. This means graduates can explore different fields, potentially gaining roles that may not be directly related to their academic background but can still enhance their skills and professional network.
eligibility criteria
To qualify for the MATES program, applicants must meet specific criteria. Main requirements include:
• Age at the time of application should be 30 years or less.
• Graduation within two years from a qualified educational institution.
• Having proficient English language skills, evidenced by an overall IELTS score of at least 6.
• Holding qualifications (bachelor’s degree or higher) in key areas such as renewable energy, engineering, information technology, artificial intelligence and financial technology.
This eligibility framework ensures that participants have the skills they need to make a positive contribution to the Australian economy, while also providing Indian graduates with the tools they need to move forward.
Benefits of International Experience
The opportunity to work in Australia not only enhances employability but also provides graduates with a deeper understanding of the global working environment. This experience can be valuable when returning to India or moving to other countries, making graduates more competitive in the job market. Additionally, participants can bring dependents, allowing families to support their transition to life in Australia.
Comparative Overview: MATES vs. Other Visa Options

future prospects
The MATES program is due to launch in late 2024, with 3,000 places offered to primary applicants each year in an initial pilot phase. This initiative not only underlines the growing ties between Australia and India but also highlights Australia’s commitment to welcoming skilled migrants who can contribute to its economy.
Finally, the MATES visa program represents an important opportunity for Indian students, enabling them to gain international work experience and better career prospects in a thriving economy. As Indian graduates increasingly seek opportunities abroad, the MATES program has emerged as a promising path towards professional development and success.