Australia offers Student and Student Guardian visas for individuals who wish to study full-time or accompany a minor student during their studies. These visas allow applicants to stay in Australia for the duration of the course and provide specific rights during their stay.

Student Visa (Subclass 500): The Subclass 500 Student Visa enables international students to undertake full-time study at an approved educational institution in Australia for up to five years. To apply, students must meet certain requirements such as holding an accepted enrolment, proving financial capacity, and demonstrating English language proficiency.

Eligibility Requirements for the Student Visa: To qualify for the Subclass 500 visa, applicants must:

• Be enrolled in a registered course of study
• Meet English language requirements
• Show sufficient financial evidence to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel
• Maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• Satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement
• Arrange appropriate welfare support if under 18
• Show that study is the main purpose of coming to Australia
• Meet character requirements
• Have no previous visa cancellation or application refusal that affects eligibility

Key Features of the Subclass 500 Visa:

• Study Rights: Enroll in an accredited course within Australia
• Length of Stay: Remain in Australia for the duration of your program, with extensions possible in some cases
• Work Permissions: Work up to 48 hours per fortnight while classes are in session and unlimited hours during holidays
• Bring Family: Eligible dependents (partner and children) may accompany you
• Health Cover: You must maintain OSHC throughout your stay

Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590): The Subclass 590 Student Guardian Visa is designed for a parent, legal guardian, or an eligible relative of an international student under 18 who is studying in Australia. In special circumstances, it may also apply to guardians of students over 18 who require extra care.

Eligibility Requirements for the Student Guardian Visa Applicants must:

• Be a parent, legal guardian, or relative aged 21+ of the student
• Satisfy health and character criteria
• Demonstrate adequate financial means to support themselves, the student, and any dependents
• Commit to following visa conditions, including not leaving Australia without arranging proper care for the student
• Provide accommodation, support, and welfare to the student
• Hold an eligible substantive visa if applying from within Australia

Key Features of the Subclass 590 Visa:

• Guardian Role: Enables you to provide ongoing support and care to the student
• Duration of Stay: Tied to the student visa holder’s age and visa length
• No Work Rights: This visa does not allow you to work in Australia
• Study Options: You may study for up to 3 months in short courses
• Including Family: You may bring dependent children if they meet specific eligibility conditions

Note: Visa requirements and eligibility criteria can change over time. It is recommended to seek guidance from a registered migration agent to stay updated. You may also refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas for the most current details on these visas.

At Randhawa Immigration, our registered migration agent can provide up-to-date information on these employer-sponsored visas and guide you through the entire application process.

Book a consultation with us today to Learn more.