Student Guardian (Subclass 590) Visa | Guide for Parents and Guardians

The Student Guardian Visa (subclass 590) is a temporary visa that allows you to stay in Australia as a guardian of an international student. This visa permits you to remain in Australia for the duration of the student’s course. If the student you are caring for is over 18 and has exceptional circumstances, you may still be eligible to apply for this visa. 

What are the key features of a Student Guardian (Subclass 590) Visa? 

  • You can care for more than one student. 

  • You may study an English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) for up to 20 hours per week. 

  • Alternatively, you can undertake up to 3 months of study or training. 

  • However, this visa does not allow you to work in Australia. 

Who Can Apply for a Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)? 

To be eligible to apply for this visa, you should typically fall into one of the following categories: 

  • Parent of the Student Visa Holder: Parents of an international student under 18 years of age studying in Australia can apply for the Student Guardian Visa. In exceptional circumstances, parents or guardians of students who are 18 or older may also be eligible. 

  • Relatives of the Student: In certain exceptional situations, other relatives can apply for this visa to support and care for the international student. For visa purposes, "relative" is defined as: 

    • Grandparent or step-grandparent 

    • Sibling or stepsibling 

    • Uncle, aunt, step-uncle, or step-aunt 

    • Nephew, niece, step-nephew, or step-niece 

    • Partner 

    • Child or stepchild 

      The relative must be 21 years old or older and nominated by the student’s parent or custodian. 

  • Custodians: Individuals who have been approved as the student's legal custodian can also apply for this visa. 

What are the Eligibility Requirements for the Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)? 

To be eligible for the Student Guardian Visa, applicants must meet several criteria: 

  • Be the legal guardian, parent, or relative of the student. 

  • Be over 21 years of age. 

  • Have the financial means to support both yourself and the student for the duration of your stay. 

How Long Can You Stay with the Guardian Visa (SC 590)? 

The length of your stay on the Guardian Visa will depend on the conditions of the student’s visa. You can remain in Australia for the same duration as the student you accompany. If your visa expires and you wish to continue providing guardianship, you must apply for a new Guardian Visa. 

Can I Work with the Guardian (Subclass 590)Visa? 

This visa does not grant working rights in Australia. However, you can check your work eligibility through your personal online immigration account. While you cannot work, you are permitted to study an ELICOS course for up to 20 hours per week or undertake up to 3 months of study or training.

Can I Extend My Subclass 590 - Student Guardian Visa in Australia? 

Yes, you may be able to apply for a further Student Guardian Visa. The duration of your extended stay will depend on the student’s age and the length of their education. 

Can Other Family Members Accompany Me on a Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590) Visa? 

The Subclass 590 visa is primarily for guardians. If other family members, such as a spouse or children, wish to accompany you, they may need to apply for their own visas based on their eligibility. For example: 

How Long Is the Student Guardian Visa (SC 590) Valid For?

The visa duration is typically aligned with the student’s course length. If the student is under 18 years old, the visa may be granted until the student turns 18. 

How Can Agape Henry Crux Help  

For those considering applying for the Student Guardian (SC590) Visa, it is essential to understand the implications regarding family accompaniment and the possibility of extending the visa based on the student’s circumstances. At Agape Henry Crux, our Accredited Specialist(s) Immigration Lawyers and our team of immigration lawyers and migration agents are specialised in handling highly complex matters.  You may schedule an appointment with one of our lawyers or agents to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or email us at info@ahclawyers.com.

We speak fluent English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter. 

This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.  

subclass 500Agape Henry CruxAgape Henry Cruxstudent visa australia, student visa subclass 500, student guardian subclass 590