An optical scanning device for scanning an information layer (2) of an optical record carrier (3). The device includes a radiation source (7) for providing at least a first radiation beam of a first polarization along a first optical path, and a second radiation beam of a second, different polarization along a second, different optical path. An objective lens system, having an optical axis (19a), is arranged to converge the radiation beams on the information layer A beam-deflecting element (30) comprising a birefringent material is orientated such that each of said polarized radiation beams experiences a different index of refraction upon passing through the birefringent material, and is arranged to refract at least the first radiation beam towards the optical axis.