How much does it cost to apply for a dependent visa for my spouse and child under 18, and what is the processing time for Germany and the UK, given I am an international student?
Germany's family reunification visa costs about EUR 75 for your spouse and EUR 37.50 for your child, totaling EUR 112.50, and takes several months. The UK charges GBP 558 per dependant plus GBP 776 a year in health surcharge, roughly GBP 4,220 total for a 2 year visa.
Germany's family reunification visa costs about EUR 75 for your spouse and EUR 37.50 for your child under 18, totaling EUR 112.50, with processing that can take several months. The UK charges GBP 558 per dependant plus a GBP 776 annual health surcharge each, and only qualifies you if your course is eligible.
Dependent Visa Cost and Processing Time
| Item | Germany | UK |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse visa fee | EUR 75 | GBP 558 |
| Child visa fee | EUR 37.50 | GBP 558 |
| Health surcharge | Not applicable | GBP 776 per year, per dependant |
| Processing time | Several months possible | Around 3 weeks standard, outside the UK |
Eligibility Differs Sharply Between the Two
- Germany: generally allows a spouse and children when your stay exceeds 1 year and you can support them without public funds.
- UK: only allows dependants if you are on a government sponsored course over 6 months, or a qualifying PhD or other research based higher degree.
- Standard master's in the UK: usually does not qualify you to bring dependants under current rules.
My Advice
Check your exact course type before assuming your spouse and child can join you in the UK, since a standard taught master's typically will not qualify, while a PhD generally will. Germany is more flexible on course type but still requires proof you can financially support your family without relying on public assistance, so build that into your budget early.
Cash income, business income or no ITR?
See whether your funds and documents will pass the German visa check.
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