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Germany Student visa - Dependents & family

17 questions

Expert Answers

Can my spouse join me in Germany on my student visa, or do they need their own?

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No, a spouse generally cannot rely on your study visa. A spouse who wants to join a student in Germany typically needs a separate family reunification visa, and whether that is possible depends on your residence status and the case. Check current rules before making plans.

What are the specific conditions for my spouse to accompany me on a dependent visa to Germany?

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Yes, there are clear conditions: both spouses must be at least 18, the marriage must be legally recognised, your spouse generally needs basic German at A1 level, and you must show sufficient income and adequate housing before your spouse's family reunification visa is approved.

Can my spouse and children come live with me in Germany while I study?

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Yes, your spouse and children can join you in Germany while you study, but approval is not automatic. The German embassy reviews each family case individually, checking that you have adequate finances and suitable living space before granting permission for dependents.

How long does it take to get permanent residency in Germany if I've lived there for five years, and can my spouse work without restrictions while I'm studying?

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No, 5 years of German residence does not automatically bring permanent residency, since time spent on a student permit generally counts only half toward that period. Switching to a skilled-worker permit after graduation shortens the path considerably, while your spouse can work without restriction once granted a family reunification permit.

Which country would be the easiest for me, an Indian student, to study abroad and have my husband work there without restrictions?

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Germany is your easiest option for a master's or PhD, since your husband can convert his visa into a Family Reunion permit with unrestricted work rights, needing only basic A1 German. New Zealand is the best English-speaking alternative, but only if you enrol in a Level 9 or 10 programme.

Will my husband be able to get a job in Germany and can we settle there?

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Can I take my child (kid) with me while studying abroad in Germany/UAE?

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Yes, you can bring your child with you while studying abroad in both Germany and the UAE, though the legal and financial prerequisites differ. In Germany, you must hold a student residence permit, show additional funds, and provide suitable housing. Meanwhile, the UAE requires university sponsorship, strict financial or income.

Can we apply for a dependent visa in Germany and what is the process?

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Yes, you can apply for a family reunion visa to bring eligible dependents to Germany. As an Indian citizen, you must submit your application from your home country before traveling. The sponsor in Germany needs a valid residence permit, sufficient financial funds, and adequate living space.

All Questions (17)

Can my spouse join me in Germany on my student visa, or do they need their own?

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What are the specific conditions for my spouse to accompany me on a dependent visa to Germany?

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Can my spouse and children come live with me in Germany while I study?

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How long does it take to get permanent residency in Germany if I've lived there for five years, and can my spouse work without restrictions while I'm studying?

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Which country would be the easiest for me, an Indian student, to study abroad and have my husband work there without restrictions?

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Will my husband be able to get a job in Germany and can we settle there?

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Can I take my child (kid) with me while studying abroad in Germany/UAE?

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Can we apply for a dependent visa in Germany and what is the process?

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What are the possibilities for spouse visas in Germany and other countries for a Master's/PhD?

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Is it true that Germany only allows dependent visas after getting a full-time work permit and not with a student visa?

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Are there any other European countries that support dependent visas along with student visas?

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Can international students in Germany realistically bring an ailing parent to live with them after finishing their masters?

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Can my spouse work in Germany on my Blue Card?

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After getting a dependent visa, can my spouse work there or do we need a different visa in Germany?

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What about dependent visas for Germany?

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Can a student apply for a dependent visa for their daughter to accompany them abroad in New Zealand/Germany for a Postgraduate?

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Is a dependent visa allowed for students in European countries in Ireland/Germany for a PhD?

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🎓 Can your spouse come to Germany? Check Options