PhD graduates can apply for the National Innovation visa (subclass 858), which replaced the Global Talent visa in December 2024. A PhD from a highly ranked university, for example one in the top 100 of the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, is one indicator of academic standing that may support your claims. It is not a mandatory requirement, and it should be combined with other evidence such as publications, citations and the significance of your research. In the THE World University Rankings 2027 (published 30 September 2026), six Australian universities were ranked within the top 100 globally:
- University of Melbourne: equal 34th
- University of Sydney: equal 51st
- Monash University: 61st
- University of Queensland: equal 73rd
- UNSW Sydney: equal 75th
- Australian National University (ANU): 77th
Assessing exceptional and outstanding achievement and international recognition for PhD graduates
The Department of Home Affairs may be satisfied that a PhD graduate is able to demonstrate exceptional and outstanding achievement on the basis of their completed academic qualification.
The Department should, however, be satisfied that if the applicant’s qualification was obtained outside Australia from a non-Australian education provider, that it is the equivalent of a PhD obtained in Australia. The Department will have regard to any relevant guidance from the Department of Education, including the Australian Qualifications Framework and Country Education Profiles.
In considering whether the achievements by a PhD graduate are exceptional and outstanding, and are internationally recognised, decision makers should be satisfied:
- their research is of international interest and significance;
- their research would be relevant to an international audience;
- they have presented their research at international forums;
- their research could be used to inform academia, governments and industry abroad;
- their research is relevant to Australian academia, governments and industry in respect to advancing Australia’s international competitiveness; and
- their research highlights the potential for innovation and productivity increases for Australian organisations and industries operating in an international or globalised context.
The Department may accept that the information and evidence provided by a nominator satisfies the above requirements in relation to ‘exceptional and outstanding achievement’ and international recognition, provided that information is accepted as credible.
Assessing prominence for PhD graduates
PhD graduates must have been conferred their PhD degree in the last 3 years in order to satisfy the requirement to still be prominent in their area of academia and research at the time of application. Appropriate evidence includes a transcript, parchment or graduation certificate clearly indicating the date of conferral of the PhD qualification.
In assessing ‘prominence’ for PhD graduates, the Department will consider whether the applicant has remained employed or academically engaged in their field (such as through accredited studies or research) if they have graduated 12 months or more before the time of application.
PhD students would be taken to meet the prominence requirement if they have a prior internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement and are studying towards a PhD qualification in the field.
NIV for PhD graduates and students: FAQs
Do I need a PhD from a top 100 university?
No. A PhD from a highly ranked university is one indicator of academic standing that may support your claims, but it is not a mandatory requirement. Combine it with other evidence such as publications, citations and the significance of your research.
How recent must my PhD be?
Your PhD must have been conferred in the last 3 years to meet the prominence requirement at the time of application. A transcript, parchment or graduation certificate showing the date of conferral is suitable evidence.
I graduated 12 months or more ago. What else is needed?
The Department considers whether you have remained employed or academically engaged in your field since you graduated, for example through accredited studies or research.
Can current PhD students apply?
PhD students are taken to meet the prominence requirement if they already have an internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement and are studying towards a PhD in that field.
My PhD is from an overseas university. Does it count?
Yes, if it is the equivalent of a PhD obtained in Australia. The Department has regard to guidance from the Department of Education, including the Australian Qualifications Framework and Country Education Profiles.
Do I need a nominator?
Yes. You need a nomination on Form 1000 from an Australian citizen, permanent resident, eligible New Zealand citizen or Australian organisation with a national reputation in your area. See our guide to nomination for the NIV.
Book a video consultation with our registered migration agents to find out more about your visa options.
