Studying abroad as an international student is a transformative experience, but it often means being separated from loved ones. To ease this challenge, many countries offer dependent visa options, enabling students to bring their family members along. These visas can provide emotional and financial support, making the transition smoother. Here’s an overview of 10 countries that facilitate dependent visa options for international students, including eligibility criteria, fees, and required documents.
1. United States (USA)
The F-2 dependent visa allows spouses and unmarried children under 21 of F-1 visa holders to join them in the U.S.
Requirements:
– Relationship proof (spouse or child of F-1 visa holder).
– Financial capacity to support dependents.
– Status tied to the validity of the F-1 visa.
Fee: $185 per application.
2. Canada
Canada’s family class sponsorship visa allows spouses, children, and other dependents to join international students with an S-1 visa.
Requirements:
– Relationship proof (marriage/birth certificates).
– Proof of financial support.
– Completed application and visa fee.
Fee: CAD $150 per child.
3. Germany
Germany offers a family reunification visa for close family members of international students.
Requirements:
– Marriage certificate or relationship proof.
– German language certification.
– Proof of sufficient funds and adequate living space.
Fee: €75 per applicant.
4. Australia
Australia provides several dependent visa options, including partner and child visas. Spouses may also have work rights, depending on the student’s course of study.
Requirements:
– Relationship proof.
– Financial capacity and health insurance.
– Confirmation of enrollment of the primary student.
Fee: AUD 7,000 (Partner visa).
5. Austria
Austria offers dependent visas for spouses, children, and parents of international students.
Requirements:
– Marriage or birth certificate.
– Proof of financial support and health insurance.
– Accommodation evidence.
Fee: €150 (long-term visa).
6. New Zealand
New Zealand’s Partner of a Student Visa allows dependents to join students, with work or study rights for spouses and children.
Requirements:
– Relationship proof.
– Financial means to support dependents.
– Accommodation proof.
Fee: NZD $700 (Partner visa), NZD $395 (dependent child).
7. Japan
Japan’s dependent visa enables family members of students to join them, with fees varying by nationality.
Requirements:
– Certificate of Eligibility.
– Relationship and financial proof.
– Enrollment verification and residence permit of the student.
8. China
China offers S1 (long-term) and S2 (short-term) visas for dependents.
Requirements:
– Valid passport.
– Invitation letter from the primary student.
– Relationship proof and accommodation evidence.
9. Denmark
Denmark’s Family Visa allows dependents to join international students with residence permits.
Requirements:
– Marriage or birth certificates.
– Financial support and accommodation proof.
Fee: €80.
10. Finland
Dependents of international students in Finland can apply for a residence permit tied to family ties.
Requirements:
– Relationship proof.
– Financial means and health insurance.
– Translated documents in English or Swedish.
Fee:€90 (adults), €45 (children).
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.
