Studying abroad is an experience, and it’s even more unique if you get to bring your loved ones with you. If you’re studying abroad, you might be thinking: Can I bring my spouse or child with me? And if so, what are the rules? This Spouse and Dependent Visa Guide helps you out in clear, easy-to-understand language, with current facts you can rely on.

1. What Are Dependent or Spouse Visas?

Spouse or dependent visas are reserve visas that allow your immediate family, like your spouse or unmarried children, to come to join you while you study overseas. Also called derivative visas, their issuance is dependent on your student visa. Depending on which country, the regulations, and the possibilities for your dependents, differ. Let’s look at the best places and see what happens with spouse and dependent visas.

2. United States: F-2, J-2, M-2 Visas

If you are studying in the U.S. under an F-1, J-1, or M-1 visa, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can be eligible for an F-2, J-2, or M-2 visa, which is a reciprocal visa.

F-2 visas (dependents of F-1 students): Each dependent will require a personal Form I-20 from your institution. Work is not allowed, and full-time education is also forbidden, though children are allowed to attend school or you can study part-time or even for fun.

J-2 visas (dependents of J-1 exchange visitors): Every dependent requires their own DS-2019 form and visa. They can learn, and they can even request to work.

M-2 visas (M-1 vocational students’ dependents): Spouses and children receive M-2 visas, though with more restrictive conditions. Wives cannot work or go to school; children can attend elementary or secondary (K–12) school.

3. United Kingdom: Student Dependants’ Visas

In the U.K., foreign students are permitted to bring dependents, but there are certain regulations.

Who can bring dependants? You need to be a full-time postgraduate student on a course of at least nine months’ duration, or a government-sponsored student on a course lasting more than six months’ duration.

Who is considered a dependent? Your spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner, and children under 18.

Money matters: All dependents must show that they have enough money to live in the U.K., various figures depending on where they move.

What shifted in 2025? As of 16 July 2025, the dependent’s application must include the student’s granted visa for consideration. In case your own student visa application is refused, the dependent’s will too. And tighter English language requirements exist today: your partner can be required to provide core English proficiency to be eligible.

4. Germany: Family Reunion (Familienzusammenführung)

Germany doesn’t have a specific “student dependent” visa, but you can still bring family members under family reunification, specifically spouses and minor children. You will also require a residence permit or Blue Card yourself. Then apply for family reunification visa, along with proofs such as marriage certificate, proof of language skills, your permit, etc.

5. General Steps for Bringing Dependents

Regardless of the rules, most nations share similar steps. Document your relationship by providing a marriage certificate for a spouse or a birth certificate for a child. Exhibit financial means by demonstrating enough finances to cater for your family while abroad. Apply and submit their own documents. Keep the visa expiring dates in sync, because in most locations, the dependent remains for the duration of the student visa. Understand what they are able to do, whether they can study, work, or must observe restrictions (like F-2 limitations).

6. The Importance of This, and Essential Advice

Family comfort: It is difficult to study alone in a foreign country. To have your spouse or children with you makes it much easier. Plan ahead: Visa rules change, like the UK’s 2025 updates, so check the latest before applying. Budget your money: You will spend more with dependents. Be aware of what you need to bring. Obey rules strictly: Certain visas (F-2) restrict what your dependents can do, learn them before planning. Seek advice from support services: Your school’s international office or a trusted advisor can guide you and your family’s applications.

7. Summary Table

Final Tips

You may take your wife or kids with you when you go abroad to study, but the regulations of each country are different. Some countries restrict work; others require evidence of funds or language ability. The idea is to study well and educate yourself.

Rely on the support services of your institution, plan ahead, and be clear on what your dependents can and cannot do. With proper planning, studying abroad is an experience you can share, one that your family can share with you.