One of the hardest parts of relocating is being separated from your spouse and children. Many Nigerians and Africans move first, then plan to bring their family. But dependant rules vary widely by country and visa type, and some have tightened sharply in recent years.
Here’s what you need to know before making plans.
What Is a Dependant Visa?
A dependant visa allows your spouse or partner and children to join you based on your own visa. Their right to stay is usually linked to yours. If your visa ends, theirs usually does too.
United Kingdom
Whether you can bring dependants depends on your visa:
- Skilled Worker: many roles allow dependants, but rules differ by occupation, and care workers recruited from abroad face restrictions.
- Students: most students on taught courses can no longer bring dependants. Exceptions exist for certain postgraduate research programmes.
- British citizens or settled persons: can sponsor a spouse or partner through the family route, subject to financial and relationship requirements.
The GOV.UK family visa page explains family route requirements, including income thresholds.
Canada
Spouses of some workers and students may be eligible for open work permits, but eligibility has narrowed in recent years based on the principal applicant’s occupation or programme. Permanent residents and citizens can sponsor spouses and dependent children through family sponsorship.
United States
Most work and student visa holders can bring a spouse and unmarried children under 21 on derivative visas, such as H-4 or F-2. However, dependants often can’t work unless they get separate authorisation. Green card holders and citizens can petition for family members.
Europe
Many European countries offer family reunification for residents with valid permits, but requirements differ. Some require language tests, minimum income and adequate housing before approving family members.
The Gulf
In countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, sponsoring your family usually depends on meeting a minimum salary and having suitable housing. Some employers include family sponsorship in job offers, while others don’t. Ask before accepting.
Common Requirements
- Proof of genuine relationship, such as marriage and birth certificates
- Proof you can financially support your family
- Suitable accommodation
- Valid passports for each family member
- Medical tests, where required
- Payment of visa fees and health charges for each person
Prepare Your Documents Early
Many Nigerian families face delays because of document issues. Make sure:
- Marriage certificates are properly registered
- Children’s birth certificates include both parents’ names
- Names are spelled consistently across passports and certificates
- Documents are authenticated where required
Budget Realistically
Visa fees, health surcharges, flights, school uniforms, winter clothing and larger housing add up quickly. A family of four can cost many times more than relocating alone. Plan the numbers carefully and build savings first.
Think About Schools and Childcare
Research school admissions before your children arrive. In some countries, you need a local address before applying. Childcare can also be expensive, affecting whether your spouse can work.
Consider Your Spouse’s Career
If your spouse can work, check whether their qualifications are recognised and what it takes to get licensed. Plan for their career too, not just yours.
Plan the Timing
Some families move together, while others let the main visa holder settle first. Moving first gives you time to find housing, understand the system and save, but separation can strain relationships and children. Moving together is often harder financially but easier emotionally. Discuss the timing openly as a family, set a realistic target date and keep in regular contact if you do spend time apart. Whatever you choose, make sure your family’s visas are applied for well before any deadline linked to your own visa.
Final Thoughts
Reuniting your family abroad takes planning. Check the dependant rules for your specific visa, prepare clean documents, budget realistically and think about schools and your spouse’s career from the start.