Many Africans who want to leave their home country usually do so via the student route; while there, they may want to bring their family and dependants over.
Many immigrant students have limits to the hours they can spend at work, so it makes sense to have a dependant who is able to work. Other times, you just don’t want to be apart from your family and children. 
The most popular choices, the United States and the United Kingdom, are closing their doors to immigrants. In May 2023, the British government enacted a ban prohibiting international students from bringing their family members to the UK.
In January 2024, it was announced that only dependants of international students who meet specific UK dependant visa criteria will be eligible for such visas. These criteria include being enrolled in a PhD or other doctoral-level programme or being involved in research-based higher education.
The United States has essentially restricted over 20 African countries from seeking student visas, so it doesn’t matter if you have a scholarship or not.
With such stringent requirements, which other countries are welcoming of immigrants with their student visas and dependants?
1. Australia
Unlike the UK, Australia is very welcoming and allows students to bring spouses and children under 18 under its dependant visa programme.
Applicants can include family members in their initial student visa application or apply separately after enrolment.
The documentation needed includes evidence of relationships, financial stability, and health insurance. Importantly, dependants on this visa can also work or run their own businesses while living in Australia.
2. China
China allows international students to potentially bring dependants, with the relevant visa types being the S1 and S2 for extended or short visits.
The S1 visa, intended for spouses, parents, children under 18, or parents-in-law of foreigners residing in China for work or study for visits lasting 180 days or more; and the S2 visa, designated for family members visiting for shorter periods of less than 180 days.
3. Canada
In 2023, Canada had nearly one million international students. Why? Canada’s dependant visas are for students who want to bring their spouses and families.
However, to qualify for a dependant visa, applicants must meet several criteria, including being married for at least one year and passing a language proficiency test.
To make the application process easier, it’s recommended that international students and their partners apply together, as processing may take up to three months. Required documentation includes the application form, test results, marriage certificate, and proof of funds.
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) also permits spouses of international students to work full-time in Canada.
ALSO READ: 4 Reasons Why Canada Is Deporting Nigerians and Other African Migrants
4. Germany
In Germany, a family reunion visa permits students to have their spouse and children join them, as long as they meet the requirements.
Essential requirements for getting this visa are sufficient financial resources for the entire stay, appropriate housing, a marriage licence, the spouse being at least 18 years old, an A1 level of German proficiency, and enrolment in a course lasting at least one year. Additionally, holders of a family visa are permitted to work in Germany if they meet the necessary conditions.
5. New Zealand
New Zealand has very attractive perks and offers the opportunity for international students to have their spouses and children accompany them during their studies. The Skilled Migrant Category allows for indefinite residency, work, and study for families with dependent children under 24.
In New Zealand, children of dependants can attend primary and secondary schools as domestic students, and they won’t pay any tuition fees. Spouses can also apply for a Partner of a Worker Work Visa if their spouse is staying for over six months.
6. Finland
Finland is the happiest country in the world for the seventh year in a row, offering clean air, a beautiful environment and affordable education, and a student-visa-friendly policy. Who wouldn’t want to work here?
International students can bring their spouses, who can apply for a residence permit to work while they study. Required documents include a valid passport, a PK1 form, birth and marriage certificates, and proof of finances and residence.
Added benefit of studying in Finland is you get to see the beautiful northern lights.
7. Sweden
In Sweden, international students can also bring family members on a dependant visa. With this visa, they can work while their partners study; that is, if the study permit exceeds six months. Documentation similar to Finland’s is needed, and applying together may make the process faster.
Hopefully, these countries expand the possibility of countries you choose for immigration purposes.
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