Studying abroad can be exciting, but leaving your family behind can be hard. Thankfully, many countries offer dependant visa options, allowing international students to bring their spouses, children, and sometimes even parents with them.
This article highlights the top 10 countries providing dependant visa options, detailing eligibility criteria, required documents, and visa fees.
1. USA
The USA offers the F-2 dependant visa, allowing spouses and unmarried children under 21 of F-1 visa holders to join them.
Requirements:
- Spouse or unmarried child under 21 of an F-1 visa holder
- Financial capacity to support the stay
Fees: $185 per applicant
2. Canada
Canada’s Family Class Sponsorship visa allows spouses, common-law partners, parents, and children to join international students.
Requirements:
- Spouse, partner, or child of the student
- Proof of relationship and financial capacity
Fees: $150 per child
3. Germany
Germany’s Family Reunification visa permits spouses and children of international students to stay with them.
Requirements:
- Proof of relationship
- German language certificate
- Sufficient funds and living space
Fees: €75 per applicant
4. Australia
Australia offers various dependant visas under the Family and Partners Visa scheme for spouses, parents, and children of international students.
Requirements:
- Valid passport and application form
- Proof of relationship and financial capacity
- Health insurance
Fees: AUD 7,000 for partner visa
5. Austria
Austria’s dependant visa allows family members to join international students for stays longer than 90 days.
Requirements:
- Visa application form and passport
- Proof of relationship and financial documents
- Health insurance and medical examination
Fees: €150
6. New Zealand
New Zealand offers various dependant visas allowing family members of international students to join them.
Requirements:
- Proof of relationship
- Financial support documents
- Health insurance
Fees: NZD $700 for partner, NZD $395 for child
7. Japan
Japan’s Spouse Visa allows family members of international students to stay long-term.
Requirements:
- Certificate of Eligibility
- Proof of relationship and financial means
- Health insurance
Fees: Varies by country
8. China
China offers S1 and S2 visas for dependants of international students holding valid X1 or X2 visas.
Requirements:
- Visa application form and passport
- Proof of relationship and financial support
- Health insurance for long stays
Fees: Varies by nationality
9. Denmark
Denmark’s Family Visa allows spouses, children, and parents of international students to join them for up to two years.
Requirements:
- Valid passport and proof of relationship
- Financial support documents
Fees: €80
10. Finland
Finland offers dependant visas for family members of international students with a valid residence permit.
Requirements:
- Visa application form and passport
- Proof of relationship and financial means
- Health insurance
Fees: €90 for adults, €45 for children
These countries provide excellent opportunities for international students to study abroad without leaving their families behind. Ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria and have the necessary documents ready will facilitate a smooth application process.
