Australia is a land of opportunity for foreign workers, including those in the agricultural and seasonal industries. The MATES Visa – Subclass 403, part of the Temporary Work (International Relations) visa, enables people to work in Australia under special programs, such as the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES).

This guide will explain everything you need to know about the Subclass 403 MATES Visa, including eligibility, streams, requirements, and how to apply.

What is the MATES Visa (Subclass 403)?

The Subclass 403 Visa – MATES Stream is part of a broader visa class that allows foreign nationals to work temporarily in Australia under specific arrangements that promote international relations.

MATES stands for Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme, designed to enhance professional development through temporary work experience in Australia for citizens from participating countries (e.g., India).

It is particularly beneficial for early-career professionals in targeted fields such as:

• Renewable energy

• Artificial Intelligence

• FinTech

• Engineering

• AgriTech

• Mining technology

Key Benefits of the MATES Subclass 403 Visa

• Gain professional work experience in Australia

• Work in a skilled field aligned with national priority sectors

• Build international networks and improve your global employability

• Live and work in Australia for up to 12 months

• Pathway to further visa opportunities (e.g., Subclass 482 or 186)

Streams Under Subclass 403 Visa

The Subclass 403 visa includes multiple streams, but the MATES stream is the most relevant for early-career professionals. Other streams include:

• Government Agreement Stream

• Domestic Worker Stream (Diplomatic/Consular)

• Seasonal Worker Stream

• Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Stream

This article focuses specifically on the MATES stream.

Eligibility Criteria for MATES Subclass 403 Visa

To qualify for the MATES visa stream, you must:

• Be a citizen of a participating country (e.g., India – under bilateral agreement)

• Be under 31 years of age

• Hold a recognized qualification (e.g., Bachelor’s or higher) in a targeted sector

• Have less than 3 years of full-time work experience

• Receive an offer of employment in Australia relevant to your qualifications

• Meet health and character requirements

• Have adequate health insurance

Required Documents for MATES Visa Application

Make sure to collect and submit the following documents:

• Valid passport

• Recent passport-sized photo

• Academic qualifications (degree certificates, transcripts)

• Employment offer or contract from an Australian employer

• Proof of English language proficiency (if required)

• Health insurance details

• Police clearance certificate

• Resume/CV

Providing accurate and complete documents will significantly improve your chances of visa approval.

How to Apply for MATES Visa (Subclass 403)

Applying for the MATES stream involves several steps. Here's a simple breakdown:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Confirm that you meet the age, education, and nationality criteria.

Step 2: Secure a Job Offer

You must be employed or have a job offer in an approved Australian organization related to your qualifications.

Step 3: Create an ImmiAccount

Visit the Department of Home Affairs website and create an ImmiAccount.

Step 4: Complete the Online Application

Choose the Subclass 403 – International Relations (MATES Stream) option. Upload all necessary documents.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

The fee is approximately AUD 365, but it may vary slightly depending on your situation.

Step 6: Health & Character Checks

You may be required to complete a health examination and submit police clearance certificates.

Step 7: Wait for Visa Outcome

Processing times vary but generally take 1 to 3 months.

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Processing Time for Subclass 403 MATES Visa

The processing time for the MATES visa can vary depending on the volume of applications and completeness of your documents:

• Standard processing: 30–90 days

• Faster approvals possible for high-priority skills and complete applications

Tips for a Successful MATES Visa Application

• Apply well in advance of your intended travel date

• Submit a clean, complete application with all required documents

• Ensure your job offer aligns with your qualification and a priority sector

• Maintain valid health insurance during your stay in Australia

• Use certified translations for any non-English documents

Final Thoughts

The Work Visa MATES Australia (Subclass 403) offers a fantastic opportunity for young professionals to build their careers in one of the world's most dynamic economies. With streamlined eligibility for qualified candidates and a clear pathway to gain international work experience, this visa opens doors to exciting prospects.

If you're eligible and ready to grow your global career, now is the time to apply. For added confidence, consider consulting a registered migration agent who can help with document preparation and compliance with immigration requirements.