Australia’s Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) is opening its next ballot on 1 November 2025, offering 3,000 young Indian professionals the chance to live and work in Australia for up to two years.
The scheme is part of a growing partnership between India and Australia aimed at deepening people-to-people connections and attracting highly skilled workers across priority sectors. MATES targets recent graduates and early-career professionals with qualifications in renewable energy, mining, engineering, information and communications technology, artificial intelligence, financial technology and agricultural technology.
Under the 2025-26 round, eligible Indian nationals can register for the pre-application ballot between 1 November and 14 December 2025. Those selected will then receive an invitation to apply for the Subclass 403 MATES visa. Without an invitation, applications cannot be lodged.
The Department of Home Affairs said the ballot process would be conducted electronically, ensuring transparency and fairness. Successful applicants will receive a Notification of Selection by email and must apply for the visa by the date specified in their invitation. Each visa holder will be allowed to live and work in Australia for two years, subject to visa conditions outlined in their grant notice.
According to the Department’s guide, applicants should confirm their eligibility and register through their ImmiAccount once the ballot opens. After submitting the registration and paying the required fee, applicants will receive an email confirmation. Those selected in the ballot will be provided with a link to complete their visa application. The Department advises applicants to have all necessary documents ready before submitting — “check twice, submit once.”
The visa allows entry only after approval has been granted, and successful applicants will be advised of the entry date, period of stay and visa expiry. The Department also reminds participants that only those chosen in the ballot can apply for the visa, with no alternative application route.
The initiative reflects the ongoing cooperation between the two nations under broader migration and education agreements. By focusing on high-growth sectors such as clean energy and digital innovation, MATES seeks to provide a platform for talented Indians to gain global experience while supporting Australia’s workforce needs.
Further information, including eligibility requirements and application steps, is available on the Department of Home Affairs website and the official MATES factsheet.
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