Applying for a temporary visa

Generally, once your course is completed you are required to leave Australia before the expiry of your student visa. You may be able to apply for an extension to stay in Australia as a visitor for graduation or sightseeing if:

You do not have the condition 8503 (no further stay) on your current visa.
The application is lodged before the expiry of your current visa.
You have abided by the conditions of your previous visa.
You have the financial means to support yourself during your stay.

There are two different classes of visitor's visas you can apply for:

Short Stay Visitor-this class is for a total stay of three months or less; or
Long Stay Visitor-this class is for a total stay of more than three months (only granted under exceptional circumstances).

You need to provide the following to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC):

Your current passport (make sure your passport has not expired)
Form 601 Application for Further Stay as a Visitor.
Evidence of sufficient funds for living expenses and travel without the need to work while in Australia. Once the visitor's visa is granted, you no longer have permission to work.
If you are asking to stay in order to attend graduation, confirmation is required from the University (a letter confirming the date of graduation).
The application fee.

NOTE: If you complete your course one month or more earlier than expected, you are required to leave the country within 28 days even though your student visa might be valid for a longer duration. As per ESOS requirements, a report will be generated to DIAC regarding your early completion. Contact the ISS team for more information or advice.

GENERAL SKILLED MIGRATION

You must have recently completed an Australian qualification after two years full-time study in Australia.Some links to useful sites from the General Skilled Migration (GSM), for your information.

Read information about the GSM Program.
Read information regarding the points system.
Details related to Skilled - Graduate (temporary) visa.
Read about each of the onshore GSM visa options.

For more information, please visit the website of Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC)