The growing trend of “Japa” — the emigration of Nigerians seeking better opportunities abroad, is often driven by factors such as economic stability, education, healthcare, and family reunification.
For many prospective international students, the ability to bring loved ones along is a key consideration.
Here are 10 countries that permit international students to travel with their dependents:
- Finland
International students in Finland can bring family members, provided they hold a valid study residence permit. Applicants must show proof of relationship, sufficient financial means, health insurance, and accommodation. Each dependent must apply separately, with visa fees varying by age. - Denmark
Students with a valid residence permit can apply for a Danish Family Visa, which covers spouses, children, and in some cases, parents. Dependents can live, work, or run businesses in Denmark for up to two years, pending valid residency. Required documents include proof of relationship, financial means, and accommodation. - Malta
Malta allows spouses and minor children of international students to apply for a family reunification visa, valid for the duration of the student’s stay. The student must show financial capacity and already possess a residence permit. - China
China offers S1 (long-term) and S2 (short-term) visas for dependents of students with valid X1 or X2 visas. Applicants must provide an invitation letter, proof of relationship, valid passports, and health insurance (for S1). - New Zealand
New Zealand allows dependents to join international students through the Partner of a Student Work Visa. Partners may work full-time, while children can attend school, provided the student is enrolled in a qualifying course. - Austria
Austria provides dependent visas for spouses, parents, and children under 18. The application requires documents like a marriage certificate, proof of funds, health insurance, and a medical certificate. The long-term visa fee is €150. - Australia
Dependents of Australian student visa holders — including spouses and children — can join them through Family and Partner Visas. Work rights for spouses depend on the student’s course level, and stay duration aligns with the student’s visa. - Germany
Germany’s family reunification visa covers spouses and registered same-sex partners (over 18) of international students. Visa fees apply per applicant, and applicants must prove a close family relationship. - USA
The U.S. F-2 visa allows spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of F-1 student visa holders to accompany them.
Financial proof is required, and the F-2 visa’s validity is linked to the primary student’s F-1 status.
- Canada
Canada allows international students aged 18+ with a valid S-1 visa to sponsor dependents, including spouses, partners, children, and parents. Additional fees apply for each sponsored child or adopted dependent.
