Australia’s Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) is a new initiative that allows young professionals from India to live, work, and gain global experience in Australia. If you’re planning to apply, understanding the eligibility criteria is the first and most crucial step.

Here is everything you need to know about who qualifies for the MATES Visa.

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What Is the MATES Visa? (Quick Overview)

The MATES Visa is a temporary mobility pathway launched to strengthen Australia–India ties. It offers eligible Indian graduates and early-career professionals the chance to:

  • Live and work in Australia for up to 2 years
  • Gain international work experience
  • Explore job opportunities in high-demand sectors

It is not an employer-sponsored visa, making it easier for young professionals to apply independently.

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Who Is Eligible for the MATES Visa?

To apply for the MATES Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. You Must Be an Indian Citizen

The visa is exclusively for citizens of India. Applicants must hold a valid Indian passport at the time of application.

  1. Age Requirement: 18–30 Years

You must be between 18 and 30 years old when submitting your application.
Applicants above 30 are not eligible.

  1. Recent Graduate (Within the Last 2 Years)

You must have completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree within the previous 2 years in a qualifying field.

Eligible fields include:

  • Engineering
  • ICT & Computer Science
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Cybersecurity
  • Agricultural Technology
  • Mining & Energy
  • Renewable Energy
  • FinTech & Financial Services
  • Science, Technology & Mathematics (STEM)
  • Health & Biotechnology

(These may update yearly based on Australia’s demand list.)

  1. Strong English Language Skills

Applicants must demonstrate Proficient English, typically via:

  • IELTS
  • PTE Academic
  • TOEFL iBT

(The exact score requirements are expected to align with standard skilled-migration English benchmarks.)

  1. No Job Offer Required

Unlike other Australian visas, you do not need an Australian job offer to apply.
This is ideal for young graduates who want to explore opportunities after arriving.

  1. Good Character & Health Requirements

You must meet Australia’s standard character and health checks, including:

  • Police clearance certificate
  • Medical examination (if required)

Additional Factors That Strengthen Your Eligibility

While not mandatory, these factors improve your chances:

  • Strong academic background
  • Internship or early work experience
  • High English scores
  • Degrees from recognised institutions
  • Experience in Australia’s “priority sectors”

Documents Required for MATES Visa Application

Prepare the following:

  • Passport
  • Recent degree certificate & transcripts
  • English test results
  • Photograph (passport size)
  • Updated resume
  • Police clearance
  • Health documents (if requested)

Why Choose the MATES Visa?

  • No job offers required
  • Opportunity to live in Australia for 2 years
  • Exposure to global employers
  • Pathway to build Australian experience for future skilled visas
  • Ideal for graduates wanting overseas careers

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Final Thoughts

The MATES Visa is a golden opportunity for Indian graduates seeking international exposure in Australia. If you meet the eligibility criteria, this is one of the most straightforward pathways to begin your career journey abroad.

Frequently Asked Question

1. What is the age limit for the MATES Visa?

The MATES Visa is strictly for young professionals between 18 and 30 years old. You must be within this age bracket at the time of application. Applicants above 30 are not eligible under this pathway. This age requirement makes the program ideal for recent graduates and early-career talent.

2. Do I need a job offer to apply for the MATES Visa?

No, you do not need a job offer to apply for the MATES Visa. This visa allows applicants to enter Australia and search for work while living there for up to two years. The intention is to help young talent explore opportunities freely. However, having relevant skills may help you secure a job faster after arrival.

3. What qualifications are required for the MATES Visa?

Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degree within the last two years in an approved discipline. Eligible fields usually include engineering, IT, AI, renewable energy, biotechnology, finance, cybersecurity, and other STEM-related areas. The degree must be from a recognised institute. Your academic background must match Australia’s priority skill needs.

4. What English language test score is required for the MATES Visa?

You must show proficient English, which is generally similar to skilled migration benchmarks. Accepted tests usually include IELTS, PTE Academic, and TOEFL iBT. Higher scores strengthen your application even if the minimum requirement is met. Strong English ability increases your chances of securing work in Australia after arrival.

5. Can the MATES Visa lead to permanent residency in Australia?

The MATES Visa itself is not a permanent residency visa, but it can help you build the experience needed for skilled migration pathways. After two years in Australia, you may become eligible for visas like the Skilled Independent, State Nomination, or Employer-Sponsored categories. Your Australian work experience and skill profile can significantly improve your PR prospects. This makes MATES a valuable stepping-stone toward long-term settlement.

Get a free eligibility assessment with our immigration experts and check your MATES Visa chances today!