How to Study Abroad with Your Family

Bring Your Family While Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is exciting, but for many students, being away from family can be challenging. Luckily, in many countries, it’s possible to bring your spouse, partner, or children along. Let’s explore how this works in Australia, Canada, Ireland, the UK, and the US.

Australia

Australia is known for its friendly atmosphere, high quality of life, and excellent education system.

• Who Can Come: Your spouse or de facto partner, dependent children under 18, and your partner’s dependent children under 18. Other family members, like parents or siblings, cannot join directly.
• Eligibility: All Subclass 500 student visa holders can include eligible family members in their application.
• Important Notes: You must declare family members in your initial application. Dependents who come later can apply as “subsequent entrants.”

Canada

Canada is famous for its safe cities, multicultural environment, and welcoming approach to international students.

• Who Can Come: Your spouse or common-law partner, and dependent children. Children over 22 may also qualify if they are financially dependent due to a condition.
• Eligibility: Students at all levels (undergraduate, college, graduate) may apply to bring dependents. Certain partners may also be eligible for work permits.
• Application Tip: Include your dependents’ visa applications at the same time you apply for your study permit to ensure they can come with you.

Ireland

Ireland is a top choice for education, with strong universities and a growing tech sector. However, its rules for bringing family are stricter.

• Who Can Come: Your spouse, civil partner, de facto partner (proof of long-term relationship may be required), and children under 18. Older children may qualify if financially dependent and in full-time education.
• Eligibility: Only PhD students, government-sponsored students, and some special programs can bring dependents easily. Most bachelor’s and master’s students cannot sponsor family directly.
• Important Notes: Family members not eligible for long-term visas may visit for short stays (up to 90 days).

United Kingdom

The UK is a popular destination for its world-class education and post-study work opportunities.

• Who Can Come: Your husband, wife, civil partner, unmarried partner, or children under 18.
• Eligibility: Only select student visa holders, like postgraduate research students or government-sponsored students, can bring dependents. Students under 18 cannot bring parents.
• Important Notes: Other family members may visit on a short-term visitor visa.

United States

The US has the largest international student population in the world and offers top universities and advanced research opportunities.

• Who Can Come: Your spouse (married) and unmarried children under 21.
• Eligibility: All F-1 student visa holders can apply for F-2 visas for dependents.
• Application Process: Each dependent must have a separate Form I-20 issued by your school, and their visa application is submitted through the US embassy or consulate.

Final Thoughts

Bringing your family while studying abroad is possible, but the rules differ in each country. By understanding the eligibility requirements and visa process, you can make your study abroad experience more comfortable and fulfilling.

Wherever you plan to study Australia, Canada, Ireland, the UK, or the US, preparing ahead can help you enjoy both your education and family life abroad.

Get in touch with SPS Global

Receive advice on any of your questions regarding Immigration Get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Global. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).