For many international students, especially Nigerians planning long-term studies abroad, relocating alone is no longer the ideal option.
With rising living costs, extended postgraduate programmes, and the need for family support, the ability to bring dependents such as a spouse or children has become a key factor when choosing a study destination.
In several countries, international students can apply to bring dependents either at the same time as their study permit application or after securing residence.
These dependent permits often allow spouses to live and work legally, helping households manage expenses and integrate more easily into the host country’s economy. Children, on the other hand, are typically granted access to public education and healthcare, reducing the overall cost of relocation for families.
However, policies differ widely across countries. While some countries offer flexible rules and fast processing, others impose strict income thresholds, accommodation requirements, or limits based on the level of study.
For Nigerian students, understanding these differences is crucial to avoiding delays, refusals, or unexpected costs. Below is a curated list of the top 10 countries that allow international students to bring dependents, highlighting destinations that combine quality education with family-friendly immigration policies.
International students in Austria can bring dependents (spouses and children) by applying for separate residence permits (Family Reunification Visa). This requires proof of sufficient funds, adequate housing, health insurance, and a secure livelihood.
The main student must already hold a valid residence permit, and dependents apply through Austrian representation abroad. Children can attend school, and spouses may be allowed to work.
For other third-country nationals, family members can join depending on the main applicant’s residence permit. If the main applicant holds a Red-White-Red Card, EU Blue Card, Settlement Permit –Researcher, Red-White-Red Card Plus, or Long-Term EU Permit, family members can apply for a Red-White-Red Card Plus, allowing spouses and children to live in Austria.
If the main applicant has a Settlement Permit (self-employed, artist, special employment, or relative), family members may apply for a Settlement Permit, but only if a quota place is available.
For short-term permits like Student, ICT, Mobile ICT, Researcher Mobility, or special employment, family members can obtain a Residence Permit – Family Reunification.
Family members can also apply independently if they have a job offer. Other relatives may qualify for a Settlement Permit Gainful Employment Excepted, subject to quotas. Residence permits generally last 1–5 years and can be renewed if conditions continue to be met.
