Starting July 1, Indian students pursuing courses in Australia will have the chance to work in the country for up to eight years without needing visa sponsorship. The Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) will provide up to 3,000 spots, allowing Indian professionals from various fields such as engineering, information and communication technology, artificial intelligence, financial technology, renewable energy, and mining to apply. The new rules also offer a two-year mobility pathway for Indian graduates and early career professionals in targeted fields to live and work in Australia.

Australia's Immigration System Overhaul: Focus on Highly Skilled Workers

Australia is revamping its immigration system to attract more highly skilled workers. The proposed changes aim to streamline the visa process for high-skilled professionals, facilitate the path to permanent residency, and retain international students. The government plans to expedite and simplify the visa application process while also addressing the needs of temporary skilled visa holders who were previously unable to apply for permanent residency.

Temporary Work Restrictions Reintroduced for Student Visa Holders

Effective July 1, work restrictions for all student visa holders will be reintroduced and capped at 48 hours per fortnight. However, this restriction does not apply to individuals working in the aged care sector, as they will continue to have unrestricted work hours until December 31, 2023. The changes come as Australia seeks to manage staff shortages and ensure a smoother immigration process.