Is your child heading to Australia to study? Feeling nervous about sending them so far away? Don’t worry—you can go with them!
The Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590) is designed specifically for parents, legal guardians, or close relatives who wish to reside in Australia to care for a young international student. It’s not a work or tourist visa—this one is specifically designed to support your child while they study.
Let’s break it all down in a friendly and easy way.
🌏 What Is the Student Guardian Visa?
This visa lets you:
- Live in Australia while your child or family member studies.
- Be there as their guardian and support person.
- Stay for the same amount of time as the student, or even shorter if needed.
- Study part-time (a short course or English for up to 20 hours a week).
- Travel in and out of Australia during the visa period.
🚫 But! You can’t work on this visa. It’s purely for care and support.
✅ Who Can Apply?
You can apply if:
- You are the student’s parent, legal guardian, or close relative who is over 21 years old.
- The student is under 18 or older if they need extra care.
- You have enough money to take care of yourself (and any family you’re bringing).
- You have health insurance.
- You pass the health and character checks.
- You’re not bringing kids under 6—unless there’s a good reason.
📋 What Do They Look For?
The visa officers want to see that:
- You are there to care for the student.
- You have enough money to support yourself.
- You’re not trying to settle permanently or work.
- You’ve followed the rules on any previous visas.
🪜 How to Apply – Step by Step
Step 1: Collect the documents
Collect and prepare the necessary documents, such as your passport.
Step 2: Apply Online
Make an ImmiAccount to fill out the form at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. Upload the documents and pay the visa fee.
Step 3: Wait and stay informed
Sometimes, they’ll ask for extra info, medical tests, or fingerprints.
Step 4: Get Your Visa
If everything is correct and acceptable, they will issue you a visa offer letter, which will outline all the rules you need to follow.
📑 Documents You Will Require
Here is a simple list:
🧍 Your ID
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Proof you’re the student’s guardian/relative
💰 Money Matters
- Bank statements
- Income proof or sponsorship documents
- Where you’ll stay (rental or letter from a host)
🏥 Health & Safety
- Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC)
- Medical checks (if asked)
- Police check (if required)
🎓 Student Info
- Student’s visa grant letter
- School or college enrolment letter
💸 Fees & Processing Time
- Cost: Around AUD 650
- Processing time: Usually, it takes 4 to 6 months
🕐 Apply early: don’t wait for too long
💵 How Much Money Do I Need?
You will need to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your living expenses.
| What For? | How Much (AUD)? |
|---|---|
| Your living costs (1 year) | $24,505 |
| Return flight | $2,500 |
| School child (if allowed) | $8,000+ |
| Tuition fees (if studying) | Varies |
You can use:
- Bank savings
- Payslips
- Sponsor’s support
🎁 What Are the Benefits?
- Stay close to your child in Australia
- Travel freely during the visa period
- Study part-time (if you want to)
- Peace of mind knowing your child isn’t alone
⚠️ What Are the Limits?
- ❌ No working allowed
- ❌ No pathway to permanent residency
- ❌ No young kids under 6 (except in exceptional cases)
- ❌ Must stay and care for the student (no long trips away)
🔗 Helpful Links & Contacts
- Visa Info: Student Guardian Visa 590
- Main Website: www.homeaffairs.gov.au
- Connect with a Trusted Immigration Consultancy Services: Visas Adviser; +91 8744852245
- Overseas: Contact your nearest Australian embassy
📎 Sample Documents You Might Need
Example 1:
🧾 Bank Statement (PDF) – Shows your name, account sheet, and recent activity.
Example 2:
🧾 Birth Certificate – You must provide proof of your relationship to the student.
Example 3:
📃 Student Enrolment Letter – You need to show a letter from the school or university confirming that they have accepted the student and require a guardian.
❓ Most Commonly Asked Questions
Q: Am I allowed to work on this visa?
No, working is not allowed.
Q: Can I bring my younger children?
Yes, you may, but you must have a valid reason to get approved.
Q: How long can I stay?
You can stay as long as the student lives.
Q: Can I apply from outside Australia?
Yes! You can apply from anywhere.
Q: Can I travel while on this visa?
Yes, but don’t let the child stay alone for an extended period.
💡 Expert Advice
- ✅ Start early – Processing may take time; start the preparation as early as possible.
- ✅ Be honest – Be truthful and convince that you are visiting for support purposes only.
- ✅ Check documents twice – Ensure your papers are accurate and up to date.
- ✅ Stay informed – Regularly visit the official website to stay updated with changes.
🧡 Final Thoughts
The Student Guardian Visa, under Subclass 590, presents a valuable opportunity to provide support and care to your child while they study in Australia, far from their home country. As a parent, a guardian, or a relative, you can stay to help your child settle in a foreign land. Be on their side in Australia, enjoying the moments together.