Australia has officially opened the pre-application ballot for the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) under the Temporary Work (International Relations) visa – Subclass 403, creating a new and fair opportunity for Indian professionals aiming to gain global experience in Australia.

The MATES Ballot 2025–2026 program year marks a major step in strengthening India-Australia relations through skilled mobility. The initiative is designed to offer equal access to eligible Indian citizens while maintaining a transparent and efficient selection process.

Key Dates:
  • Ballot Registration Open: 1 November 2025
  • Ballot Registration Close: 14 December 2025
  • Selection Period: 15 December 2025 – 30 June 2026
  • Registration Fee: AUD 25

Status: ACTIVE – Registrations are now open for the 2025–2026 MATES Ballot.

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A Fair and Transparent Selection System

The MATES ballot operates as a random selection process that ensures fairness among all eligible Indian applicants. It allows participants to register their interest, and those who are randomly selected will be invited to submit a visa application under the Subclass 403 MATES stream.

The Australian Government has announced that 3,000 temporary visa places will be available each program year for primary applicants, who can also include their dependent family members in their application. Importantly, family members are not counted towards the 3,000 primary visa spots, making the scheme more inclusive for skilled professionals with dependents.

To participate, individuals must register in the MATES ballot before applying for the visa. Only those selected through the draw will receive an invitation to proceed with their application.

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Registration Details and Fees

Registrations for the 2025–2026 MATES ballot officially opened on 1 November 2025 and will close on 14 December 2025. During this period, the ballot is classified as “ACTIVE”, allowing eligible applicants to submit their registration online.

Applicants are required to pay a registration fee of AUD 25 to enter the ballot. This nominal fee helps manage the process efficiently and ensures genuine participation from candidates who are serious about pursuing work opportunities in Australia.

Ballot Status and Selection Stages

The ballot progresses through multiple status phases depending on the registration and selection activity:

  • PENDING – The ballot is yet to commence or open.
  • ACTIVE – The registration period is open for applications.
  • CLOSED – Registrations have ended, and selections are pending.
  • EXPIRED – The selection process has been finalized, and no further picks will be made from that ballot.

Following the registration phase, the selection period will begin on 15 December 2025 and continue until 30 June 2026. During this time, the Australian Department of Home Affairs will conduct random selections from the pool of registered applicants.

Eligibility and Application Criteria

Before registering, applicants must review both the ballot eligibility and the visa criteria carefully. Only those who meet all requirements will be able to proceed with their visa application if selected. The eligibility criteria generally focus on education, age, English proficiency, and work experience, tailored to early-career professionals in key fields.

Selected applicants will then need to satisfy additional conditions specific to the Subclass 403 MATES stream visa, such as providing valid documentation, meeting character and health requirements, and demonstrating intent to work or gain professional experience in Australia temporarily.

Strengthening Skilled Mobility Between India and Australia

The MATES Visa (Subclass 403) initiative underscores Australia’s commitment to strengthening its bilateral relationship with India under the India-Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation framework. It aims to attract young, skilled, and talented professionals from India, giving them exposure to Australia’s workforce and culture while contributing to both nations’ economic and professional growth.

By introducing a transparent ballot system, Australia ensures a level playing field where every eligible Indian applicant has an equal chance to participate. The process eliminates biases and streamlines visa allocations efficiently.

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Final Words:

For Indian graduates and professionals seeking global exposure, the MATES 403 Visa offers a golden gateway to gain work experience in one of the world’s most advanced economies.

With the registration period currently open until 14 December 2025, interested applicants are encouraged to review their eligibility and submit their registration before the closing date.

The ballot selection process will begin soon after, between 15 December 2025 and 30 June 2026, marking a new chapter in India-Australia professional collaboration through the MATES pathway.

Book your visa consultant now and secure expert guidance to apply for Australia’s MATES 403 Visa Ballot 2025–2026!