By SR Team | May 16, 2025 | Education Category

Studying abroad opens doors to new educational and career opportunities—but it often means leaving family behind. This challenge can be emotionally and financially taxing for many students. Fortunately, several countries offer dependent visa options, allowing international students to bring their spouses, children, and sometimes even parents with them.

In this article, we explore 10 countries where international students can bring dependents, including eligibility criteria, required documents, visa fees, and more.

What Is a Dependent Visa?

A dependent visa allows the family members of international students (typically spouses and children) to live with them while they study. Some countries also permit dependents to work or study. Eligible dependents may include:

• Spouse or common-law/conjugal partner
• Unmarried children (under a specified age)
• In some cases, parents or grandparents

10 Countries Offering Dependent Visa Options for International Students

1. United States

Visa Type: F-2 Dependent Visa
Eligible Dependents: Spouse and unmarried children under 21
Visa Fee: $185 (non-refundable)

Requirements:

• Valid F-1 visa holder (primary student)
• Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage/birth certificate)
• Financial proof to support dependents

F-2 visa holders cannot work and may only study part-time (children may attend public school).

2. Canada

Visa Type: Family Class Sponsorship
Eligible Dependents: Spouse/partner, children under 21, adopted children, parents, or grandparents
Visa Fee: $150 per child

Required Documents:

• Valid passport and travel history
• Marriage or birth certificates
• Proof of funds
• Completed application

Spouses may also apply for an open work permit.

3. Germany

Visa Type: Family Reunification Visa
Eligible Dependents: Spouse (18+), children
Visa Fee: €75 per applicant

Requirements:

• Proof of marriage
• German language certificate (A1)
• Financial proof and adequate living space

DAAD scholarships may provide extra support for dependents.

4. Australia

Visa Type: Family and Partner Visas
Eligible Dependents: Spouse, children (including over 18 if financially dependent), parents
Visa Fee: AUD 7,000 for partner visa

Required Documents:

• Passport, marriage certificate
• Proof of funds and accommodation
• Health insurance
• Student’s Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

Spouses may work depending on the student’s program.

5. Austria

Visa Type: Long-Stay Family Visa
Eligible Dependents: Spouse, children under 18
Visa Fee: €150

Requirements:

• Proof of relationship
• Criminal record certificate
• Proof of accommodation and financial support
• Health insurance

A medical exam and recent passport photo are also required.

6. New Zealand

Visa Type: Partner of a Student Work Visa, Dependent Child Visa
Visa Fee: NZD $700 (partner), NZD $395 (child)

Benefits:

• Partners may work full-time
• Children can attend school

Student must be enrolled in a qualifying course for dependents to apply.

7. Japan

Visa Type: Dependent (Family) Visa
Process: Certificate of Eligibility (COE) required
Visa Fee: Varies by nationality

Required Documents:

• Proof of relationship
• Financial proof
• Student’s residence card and enrollment confirmation
• Recent photographs of dependents

Accommodation and insurance documentation are also needed.

8. China

Visa Types: S1 (long stay), S2 (short stay)
Eligibility: Family of students on X1 or X2 visas
Visa Fee: Varies by country

Documents Needed:

• Visa form (Form V.2013)
• Proof of relationship
• Student’s residence permit and passport copy
• Invitation letter and insurance (for S1)

S1 is for stays over 180 days; S2 is for shorter visits.

9. Denmark

Visa Type: Danish Family Reunification Visa
Eligible Dependents: Spouse, children, parents
Visa Fee: €80

Requirements:

• Valid student residence permit
• Marriage or birth certificates
• Proof of accommodation and financial stability

Dependents may work or start a business during their stay.

10. Finland

Visa Type: Residence Permit for Family Members
Visa Fee: €90 (adults), €45 (children)

Required Documents (in English or Swedish):

• Valid passport
• Proof of family relationship
• Financial support documents
• Health insurance
• Copy of student’s residence permit

Dependents must be insured and have accommodation arranged in Finland.

Final Thoughts

Choosing to study abroad doesn’t mean leaving your loved ones behind. Many countries recognize the importance of family and have made it easier for international students to stay connected with theirs. Before applying, it’s essential to:

• Review each country’s specific requirements
• Ensure financial capacity to support dependents
• Secure adequate health insurance
• Confirm the visa timelines and work rights (if applicable)

By planning ahead, international students can enjoy a more balanced and supportive academic journey abroad.

Related posts:

WAEC Subject Combinations for Pharmacy (Pharmaceutical Sciences) France Émile Boutmy Scholarship 2025 – Fully Funded | Apply Now Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Syllabus for Government Universities Accepting 140 Cut-Off Mark [Official]