Introduction:
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Australia, an important milestone was reached with the signing of the Australia-India Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement. This partnership, forming part of the broader Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), aims to foster closer ties between the two countries and enhance opportunities for migration and mobility. In this blog post, we delve into the key provisions of this arrangement and its implications for Indian nationals and the professional services sector.
Expanded Access to Work and Holiday Maker Visa Program:
Under the Australia-India Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement, Indian nationals will now have increased access to the Work and Holiday Maker Visa program. This program allows young people from India to live, work, and study in Australia for a specified period. With 1000 places available per year, this expansion provides greater opportunities for cultural exchange, skill development, and personal growth.
Incentives for Indian Students to Study in Australia:
Recognizing the value of international education, the partnership arrangement introduces incentives for Indian students to study in Australia. Through the Post-study work visa program, Indian graduates can now enjoy enhanced opportunities for work experience and professional development. The duration of the post-study work visa outcome varies based on the level of qualification attained:
Diploma or trade qualification: Up to 18 months of stay.
Bachelor’s degree: Up to 2 years of stay.
Master’s degree: Up to 3 years of stay.
Doctoral degree: Up to 4 years of stay.
Extension for High-Performing STEM Graduates:
To further support the growth of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, the arrangement offers an additional year of stay for high-performing Indian graduates with a STEM bachelor’s degree. This extension allows these graduates to continue contributing to Australia’s innovation ecosystem and gain valuable work experience.
Professional Services Collaboration:
In addition to migration and education aspects, Australia and India have committed to engaging their respective professional services bodies. This collaboration aims to negotiate mutual recognition or similar arrangements for qualifications, licensing, and registration procedures in regulated or licensed occupations. Such arrangements will streamline processes and promote opportunities for professionals in various fields, facilitating the exchange of expertise and fostering stronger bilateral ties.
LMT Requirements and Considerations:
While the Australia-India Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement brings significant benefits, it is important to note that it does not include a waiver of Labor Market Testing (LMT) requirements for inbound Indian nationals. Employers must still comply with the LMT obligations when hiring Indian workers, ensuring that suitable local labor market opportunities are appropriately considered.
Conclusion:
The Australia-India Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement marks a significant step forward in strengthening the bilateral relationship between Australia and India. By expanding access to the Work and Holiday Maker Visa program, incentivizing Indian students to study in Australia, and promoting collaboration in professional services, this partnership opens new avenues for cultural exchange, skill development, and economic growth. Indian nationals and professionals can seize these opportunities to further their careers, contribute to Australia’s vibrant society, and deepen the bonds between the two nations.
Augustine & Co. Immigration Lawyers is a leading Australian immigration law firm. We have a team of experienced lawyers & consultants who can help you with all aspects of your migration journey. Please reach out to our Team to discuss your options.
Author
Calvin Augustine is the founding solicitor of Augustine & Co. Immigration Lawyers. He graduated with Honors from the University of London law school, before being admitted to practice in Malaysia and Australia (admitted in SA, appears in all Victorian Courts and Tribunals, at trial and appellate levels).
