Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Who can apply
The Student Guardian visa page says you must be the student's parent, a person with custody of the student, or a relative aged 21 or over nominated in writing by a parent or custodian. The student must be under 18, or over 18 in exceptional circumstances, and hold a Student visa.
| Requirement | Home Affairs rule |
|---|---|
| Relationship | Parent, custodian, or relative aged 21+ nominated in writing |
| Money | Enough to support yourself and the student |
| Insurance | Adequate health insurance |
| Care | Provide accommodation, welfare and other support |
| English test | None listed |
What you can do on the visa
You can care for more than one student, study ELICOS for less than 20 hours a week, or do other study or training for up to 3 months. You cannot work. You can stay until the date on your grant letter, usually set by the student's stay or when they turn 18.
Home Affairs will not grant the visa if any member of your family unit is under 6, unless there are compelling and compassionate reasons or it would significantly benefit relations with another country's government.
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The student's own English evidence
Students whose principal course is a registered school course are among those the 500 visa page exempts from giving an English test score. Students on other courses follow the usual 500 rules; see IELTS for the 500 visa. Immigration rules change, sometimes at short notice. Confirm the current rule on the Home Affairs Student Guardian page before you book a test or apply. This guide is general information, not legal or immigration advice.
Frequently asked questions
Can a grandparent be a student guardian in Australia?+
A relative aged 21 or over can apply if nominated in writing by the student's parent or custodian.
Can I improve my English on the 590 visa?+
Yes. You can study an ELICOS course for less than 20 hours a week.
Can I work on a Student Guardian visa?+
No. Home Affairs says you cannot work.
Does my child need IELTS for school in Australia?+
Not for the visa if their principal course is a registered school course; that is one of the Student visa English exemptions.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS and PTE for the 500 Student visa
- Australian student visa family rules
- Does the Australia visitor visa need IELTS?
- NZ Guardian Visitor Visa and English
- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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