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  • Choosing a Direction: Mathematics and Technology in NSW

    Posted by Jack on March 4, 2025 at 2:10 pm

    Greetings, everyone!

    I’m a US citizen seeking to migrate to Sydney, NSW. With a PhD in Mathematics from a respected US university and seven years of experience as a data scientist, I’m exploring my options for migrating to Australia. However, I am aware that I may not qualify for the Subclass 858 visa.

    Based on insights from this subreddit, I’ve learned that technology-related positions, including that of a data scientist, are highly competitive and require a substantial points score to qualify. Currently, I have 85 points, so I’m not very optimistic about securing a Subclass 189 or 190 visa with this occupation. Nonetheless, I came across this information which indicates a shortage of mathematicians in NSW for 2024. I am confident that I can successfully complete a skills assessment for this occupation.

    Here are the options I’m considering for Australian immigration:

    A. Secure a Mathematician skills assessment through VETASSESS, submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for a Subclass 189 or 190 visa, and hope that the mathematician occupation remains less competitive compared to other tech roles.

    B. Pursue a regional visa, such as the Subclass 494 or 491, under the mathematician code, and hope that this shortage persists exclusively in NSW.

    C. Attempt to build my professional network while still in the US to secure a Subclass 186 or 482 visa, potentially under other relevant occupations like data scientist or programmer (for which I also meet the skills assessment criteria).

    If my primary objective is to relocate and start working in Australia as quickly as possible, which of these pathways would be the most advantageous for me? I would appreciate any additional insights or recommendations you might have regarding Australian migration!

    Mark replied 1 month, 3 weeks ago 2 Members · 1 Reply
  • 1 Reply
  • Mark

    Mark

    Administrator
    March 4, 2025 at 2:54 pm

    Hi Jack, and welcome to Oz Visa Forum!

    You’re taking a well-researched approach, which is great! 🤗 Let’s break down your options:

    A. Mathematician (ANZSCO 224112) via 189/190

    • If NSW continues to invite mathematicians under the Subclass 190 visa, this could be a strong pathway.
    • Your 85 points are competitive, but Subclass 189 has been highly selective lately, so the state nomination (190) may be a better bet.
    • Ensure VETASSESS assesses you as a Mathematician before lodging an EOI.

    B. Regional Pathway (491/494)

    • If NSW regional areas sponsor mathematicians, this could be a solid backup plan.
    • The 491 visa (provisional) provides a direct PR pathway after 3 years of regional work.
    • Check NSW’s latest regional occupation lists as they change frequently.

    C. Employer-Sponsored (482/186)

    • Employer sponsorship is the fastest way to relocate but requires a job offer from an Australian employer.
    • Data Scientist (ANZSCO 261111) and Programmer (ANZSCO 261312) are common for 482 visas.
    • Sites like https://482jobs.com (all jobs offer visa sponsorship), Seek (https://seek.com.au), and Indeed (https://indeed.com.au) can help with job searching.
    • Subclass 186 (PR) is ideal but usually requires three years of relevant post-qualification experience unless you qualify under the direct entry stream.

    Best Strategy for Fastest Migration:

    1. Simultaneously, pursue both the skilled and employer-sponsored routes.
      • Lodge an EOI under Mathematician for 189/190/491.
      • Look for employer-sponsored roles under Data Scientist/Programmer.
    2. Engage with Australian recruiters and companies now to improve your chances of securing a 482/186 offer.
    3. Monitor NSW’s nomination trends for Mathematicians to assess your realistic chances for 190/491.

    Your PhD and experience make you a strong candidate, and given the shortage, the Mathematician route could be viable. However, employer sponsorship remains the fastest pathway if you can secure a job offer.

    I hope this helps! Let me know if you need further clarification.

    All the best

    Mark

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