All international students under 18 years old must have approved welfare and accommodation arrangements. The Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590) allows a parent, legal guardian, or approved adult to live in Australia to care for an international student under 18 on a Student Visa (Subclass 500).
Guardian Visa
590
Who can apply?
The Student Guardian visa (subclass 590) is available to parents, step-parents, or legal guardians of international students under the age of 18. In limited and special circumstances, another eligible family member may also be approved to act as a guardian.
Applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements, including the ability to provide full-time care and support for the student while in Australia. Evidence of the relationship to the student must be provided, along with proof of sufficient financial capacity to support themselves during their stay. Health and character checks may also be required as part of the application process.
Visa Conditions
Student Guardian visa holders must maintain appropriate welfare and care arrangements for the student at all times while in Australia.
The guardian’s primary responsibility is to support, supervise, and care for the student during their studies.
Limited part-time study may be permitted, subject to visa conditions.
Employment is not permitted on a Student Guardian Visa.
- The guardian must remain with the student and cannot leave the country without them.
Chat with Study Gurus
Have a question? Click the chat icon on this page and start a conversation with us
FAQs Guardian Visa 590
What is the Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)?
It’s a temporary Australian visa that lets a parent, legal guardian, or eligible relative come to Australia to provide care and support to an international student visa holder who is under 18 years old (or older in exceptional circumstances).
Who can apply for a Guardian visa?
You may be eligible if you are:
- The parent or legal guardian of the student
- A close relative (such as aunt/uncle, grandparent, sibling) nominated by the parent/custodian
- 21 years or older
You must also be able to support and live with the student and meet health, character and financial requirements.
What is the main purpose of the Guardian Visa ?
The visa’s purpose is to ensure the welfare, accommodation, supervision and care of an international student under 18 while they study in Australia.
How long can I stay in Australia on the Guardian Visa?
The visa is usually granted for the same duration as the student’s visa or until the student turns 18 — whichever is shorter. Extensions may be possible if ongoing care is genuinely needed.
Can I work in Australia on a Guardian Visa?
Generally, no, you cannot work while holding a Student Guardian Visa. The intent must remain focused on providing care to the student.
What are the financial requirements for a Guardian Visa?
You must demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself and the student for the duration of your stay in Australia, including living costs, accommodation, and school-related expenses.
Do I need health insurance for a Guardian Visa?
Yes, you must have adequate Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) for yourself (and any accompanying dependants) for the entire stay.
Can other family members come with me?
No. In very limited circumstances, you may be able to include another family member under 6 years of age.
What happens if the student’s visa status changes?
If the student finishes their course, changes visas, or turns 18, your 590 visa may end too. You’ll need to apply for another visa if you want to stay longer.
Can I apply for other visas while on a Guardian Visa?
Most of the time you cannot switch to many other visas from within Australia on a 590, so planning ahead with migration advice is important.
How do I apply for the Student Guardian Visa?
If you wish to apply for a Student Guardian Visa, please contact Study Gurus and we will be happy to assist you with the process.
How long does a Guardian Visa application take?
Processing times vary depending on the quality of your application and where you apply from. It’s recommended to apply well in advance of your planned travel.
What happens if I leave Australia temporarily on a Guardian Visa?
You can usually travel out and return while the visa is valid, as long as the student under your care leaves with you or you have made proper, pre-approved supervision arrangements prior to departing.
Can a Guardian Visa lead to permanent residency?
No, a Subclass 590 Guardian Visa is temporary and does not provide a direct pathway to permanent residency.
Can more than one parents apply for a 590 Guardian Visa?
No, in most cases both parents cannot apply for a Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590) at the same time. This visa is generally intended for one parent or eligible relative to act as the student’s guardian. Only one person can be granted the Subclass 590 visa as the primary guardian for a child under 18.
Do I need to be related to the student to apply for a Guardian Visa?
Yes, in most cases you do need to be related to the student to apply for a Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590).
Generally, the applicant must be the student’s parent, legal guardian, or a close relative (such as a grandparent, sibling, aunt, or uncle). In limited circumstances, a non-relative may be considered, but this is assessed very strictly and usually requires strong justification.
If you’re unsure whether your relationship meets the requirements, it’s best to speak with the Study Gurus team for personalised advice.
