Dependent Visa For Study Abroad Blueprint
Can I get a dependent visa for my spouse/children?
Yes, but it depends on the country, your course level, and financial proof. Every year, more than 60,000 Bangladeshi students travel abroad for higher education. Many of them are married or parents who don’t want to leave their families behind. Countries like the UK, Denmark, Sweden, and Australia allow dependent visas, but each has its own rules.
This article covers everything you need to know about eligibility, financial requirements, benefits, and challenges of bringing your family abroad while you study.
What is a Dependent Visa?
A dependent visa allows the immediate family members of international students — usually a spouse (husband/wife) and children under 18 — to live with them abroad.
Benefits of a Dependent Visa
- Stay together – No need to be apart from family.
- Spouse work rights – In many countries, spouses can work full-time.
- Education for children – Kids can attend local schools, often free or at reduced cost.
Dependent Visa Rules for Bangladeshi Students
United Kingdom (UK) – Updated 2024/25 Rules
- Eligibility:
- Only Master’s (9+ months) and PhD students can bring dependents.
- Bachelor’s students are not eligible.
- Spouse rights: Can work full-time.
- Children: Can study in UK schools for free.
- Financial requirement:
- £845/month per dependent in London.
- £680/month per dependent outside London.
- Funds must be in a bank account for 28 consecutive days.
Since January 2024, Master’s students in some UK universities face restrictions — always check your university’s dependent visa eligibility.
Denmark
- Eligibility: Students admitted to full-time higher education.
- Spouse rights: Can work full-time.
- Children: Access to public schooling.
- Financial requirement: Must show extra living costs for dependents in addition to your own (~DKK 6,500/month).
Sweden
- Eligibility: Master’s and PhD students can bring family.
- Spouse rights: Full-time work allowed.
- Children: Free schooling.
- Financial requirement:
- Around SEK 3,500/month (~€300) for each dependent.
- For a year: ~SEK 42,000 per dependent.
Australia
- Eligibility: Most international students can bring dependents.
- Spouse rights:
- If the student is in a Bachelor’s program, → Spouse can work 40 hours/fortnight.
- If the student is in a Master’s or PhD program, → Spouse can work full-time.
- Children: Must attend school (fees may apply depending on the state).
- Financial requirement (2025):
- AUD $7,362 per year for spouse.
- AUD $3,152 per year per child.
- Plus students’ tuition + living costs (~AUD $24,505).
Quick Comparison Table – Dependent Visa at a Glance
Country | Eligible Students | Spouse Work Rights | Children Schooling | Financial Proof |
UK | Master’s & PhD (9+ months) | Full-time | Free | £680–£845/month per dependent |
Denmark | Higher education | Full-time | Public schools | DKK 6,500/month |
Sweden | Master’s & PhD | Full-time | Free | SEK 3,500/month |
Australia | All levels | Part-time (Bachelor’s), Full-time (Master’s/PhD) | School fees may apply | AUD $7,362 spouse / $3,152 child |
Challenges of Bringing Dependents
While the idea of having your family with you is comforting, consider these challenges:
- Higher financial proof is needed, which can be tough for Bangladeshi students.
- Living costs abroad have risen significantly.
- Accommodation must be larger (family housing is more expensive).
- Visa processing times can be longer with dependents.
Find Out Which Country is Best for You
Choosing the correct country for your studies is one of the biggest decisions of your life. As a Sylheti student, you may be wondering whether the UK, Denmark, Sweden, or Australia is the best fit for your budget, lifestyle, and career goals.
That’s where our Unieducation counsellors step in. We understand the unique challenges Sylheti students face and can:
- Guide you to the best country based on your profile.
- Show you scholarship and funding options to save costs.
- Explain visa requirements for you and your family.
- Help you create a step-by-step plan for admission and settlement abroad.
Don’t leave your future to guesswork. Free Registration, and leave your phone number and address. Our team will personally contact you and provide a clear path to success in the country that suits you best.
FAQs – Dependent Visa for Spouse & Children
1. Can Bangladeshi students bring their spouse on a UK student visa?
Yes, but only if you’re a Master’s (9+ months) or PhD student.
2. Can my spouse work on a dependent visa in the UK?
Yes, full-time work is allowed.
3. Do Danish universities allow family applications?
Yes, dependents can apply if you’re a full-time student.
4. How much bank balance is needed for dependents in Australia?
AUD $7,362 for spouse + AUD $3,152 per child (per year).
5. Can dependents study for free?
Yes, in the UK, Denmark, and Sweden. In Australia, school fees may apply.
6. Can I bring dependents as a Bachelor’s student in the UK?
No, UK rules don’t allow this.
7. Do Swedish dependents need extra proof of funds?
Yes, ~SEK 3,500 per month per family member.
8. Can I apply for dependents after I arrive?
Yes, you can apply later, but you must show financial proof.
9. How long does dependent visa processing take?
Typically 4–12 weeks, depending on the embassy.
10. What documents are needed?
Marriage certificate, children’s birth certificates, proof of sponsorship, bank statements, and accommodation details.