1. Student Visa (Subclass 500)/Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)

1. Student Visa (Subclass 500)

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) enables international students to study full-time in Australia while also allowing limited work opportunities.

Key Features

✅ Stay Duration: Valid for up to 5 years, depending on course length.
✅ Work Rights: Permits up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
✅ Family Inclusion: Applicants can include their spouse and children in their visa application.
✅ Wide Range of Study Options: Covers primary, secondary, vocational, higher education, and postgraduate research programs.
✅ Pathway to Residency: Graduates may qualify for post-study work visas or permanent residency.

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be enrolled in a full-time course at a registered Australian institution.
• Provide evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
• Meet English language proficiency requirements.
• Obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
• Satisfy health and character requirements.
  

  Application Process

  1. Obtain a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from an approved Australian institution.
  2. Prepare Required Documents, including proof of financial support and English proficiency.
  3. Submit an Online Application via the Department of Home Affairs website.
  4. Await Processing, which varies based on course type.
  5. Receive Visa and Travel to Australia once approved.

  2. Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)

  The Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590) allows a parent, legal guardian, or relative to accompany and support an international student under 18 years old (or older in exceptional cases).

  Key Features

  ✅ Stay Duration: Matches the student’s visa duration.
  ✅ Guardian Role: Ensures the well-being and care of the student while in Australia.
  ✅ Work Limitations: No work rights included.
  ✅ Study Allowance: Can study an English course for up to 20 hours per week.
  ✅ Single Guardian Policy: Only one guardian per student can be granted this visa.

  Eligibility Requirements

  • Must be a parent, legal guardian, or relative of the student.
  • Must demonstrate financial capability to support both themselves and the student.
  • Must meet health and character requirements.
  • Must maintain adequate health insurance while in Australia.
    

    Application Process

    1. Gather Required Documents, including proof of relationship with the student.
    2. Apply Online through the Department of Home Affairs website.
    3. Await Processing, which varies by case.
    4. Receive Visa and Accompany the Student to Australia.
       

       Comparison: Student Visa (Subclass 500) vs. Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)

       Feature	Student Visa (Subclass 500)	Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)
       Purpose	Study full-time in Australia	Provide care for an underage international student
       Who Can Apply	Students enrolled in an approved course	Parent, legal guardian, or relative of the student
       Stay Duration	Up to 5 years (varies by course)	Same as the student’s visa
       Work Rights	Up to 48 hours per fortnight (during study)	No work rights
       Study Rights	Full-time study	Part-time English courses (up to 20 hours per week)
       Family Inclusion	Spouse & children can be included	No dependents allowed
       Financial Requirement	Must show funds for tuition and living costs	Must show funds to support both self and student