Student Guardian visa 590
A parent or eligible relative coming to care for a student under 18.
Changing
Who it is for
A parent, custodian or relative aged 21 or older, nominated in writing by a parent or custodian, who will care for a Student visa holder under 18.
Main requirements
- Be a parent, custodian or eligible relative (parent or step-parent, grandparent, sibling, aunt or uncle).
- A genuine temporary stay, and good compliance with previous visas.
- Enough money for the stay, health insurance, health and character.
- Accommodation and welfare arrangements for the student.
- Children under 6 can be included only in compelling and compassionate circumstances.
Where you apply from
The 2 October 2026 rules also apply: most temporary visa holders must apply from outside Australia and be outside Australia at grant. Current Student Guardian visa holders can still apply for a further Student Guardian visa in Australia. Ideally lodge at the same time as the student's application.
Your journey, step by step
From the first enquiry to the decision and after, with how a registered migration agent helps at each step. No step promises an outcome.
- First enquiry
You tell us your current visa, where you are, your family and any past refusals or cancellations.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent identifies your current visa, its conditions and expiry, and any early risk. - Free first call, then a consultation
The first 15 minutes are free and general. A longer consultation is quoted in writing before it starts.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent explains your honest options, risks, costs and timing. - Service agreement
Before any personal advice or preparation, you receive a written service agreement and the OMARA Consumer Guide.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent sets out the work, the fee and the refund policy in writing. No money is taken for visa work before the agreement is signed. - Evidence
Relationship documents, the parental nomination, financial evidence, police certificates and health insurance.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent prepares the relationship evidence and coordinates it with the student's application. - Lodge with the student
Lodge online at the same time as the student's Student visa where possible.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent checks the location rules for both applications. - Health, police and biometrics
Health examinations, police certificates and biometrics when the Department asks.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent tracks every request and deadline so nothing lapses. - Decision and stay
Live with and care for the student. You cannot work, and study is limited.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent explains the conditions, including no work.
Government charges from 1 July 2026
Paid to the Department of Home Affairs, not to us.
| Applicant or item | Charge (A$) |
|---|---|
| Main applicant | A$2,500 |
| Child under 18 | A$500 |
| Subsequent temporary application charge, if applying in Australia | A$700 |
Check every charge in the Home Affairs Visa Pricing Estimator.
Processing times
Home Affairs Global visa processing times, updated 29 September 2026 (applications finalised to 31 August 2026). Read 22 October 2026. A guide only, not a promise.
| Student Guardian | 50% in 43 days, 90% in 8 months |
|---|
Common refusal reasons
- Not a qualifying relative.
- Doubts about a genuine temporary stay.
- Not enough money.
- The guardian appears to have another purpose, such as work.
- A weak accommodation and welfare plan.
- Character.
Document checklist
Tick items as you gather them. Your ticks stay on this device only.
- Identity and relationship
- Support
- Character
Recent and upcoming changes
- 2 October 2026
Most applicants must apply from outside Australia. Current Student Guardian visa holders can still apply in Australia.
Talk it through before you apply.
The first 15 minutes are free and general. Personal advice starts after a written service agreement.
Information checked 22 October 2026. General information only, not advice for your situation. Rules and charges change; check the official sources before you act.