Australia to restrict student dependant visas from 2026
Australia will stop most international students from bringing family members on their visas starting September 17, 2026, as part of new migration measures.
Australia has announced that most international students will no longer be able to add family members to their student visas from September 17, 2026. The change, announced by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, aims to reduce net overseas migration. Burke stated the government supports immigration but is "opposed to anyone rorting the immigration system." The existing rules remain in effect until the new restrictions take place.
There are key exceptions to Australia's new policy. Students from Pacific and ASEAN countries will retain the right to bring family members under special visa conditions. Those undertaking PhDs or certain other courses will also be exempt. Students who already have family members attached to their visas and are in Australia will not be affected by the change.
Under the current Australian system, students can include a spouse and unmarried children under 18 on their original visa application or apply for dependant visas after their course begins. Applicants must show proof of relationship, substantial funds, and health insurance for at least 12 months.
The UK's tightening restrictions
The United Kingdom has also moved to restrict dependant visas for international students. Since January 2024, only family members of students in PhD or other doctoral programmes, or those on full government scholarships, are eligible. The government tightened the rules further in March 2024, citing a need to reduce migration. The Home Office described a situation where 120,000 dependants accompanied 100,000 care workers as "disproportionate."
The UK government considers a spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner of at least two years, and children under 18 as eligible dependants.
Countries offering dependant visas
Despite restrictions in the UK and planned changes in Australia, many countries still offer pathways for international students to bring their families. According to the source, 14 countries provide such options, including Canada, China, and Germany.
Canada is a popular destination that issues dependant visas. The spouse of an international student can apply for an open work permit valid for the same period as the student's study permit. The application process can take up to three months, and couples are advised to apply together.
Germany offers a dependant visa, known as a family reunion visa. This permit allows a spouse and children to join and live with the student temporarily during their studies.
Information on China's policy is less clear from official sources, but the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre lists two relevant visa categories.
| Visa Type | Purpose | Duration of Stay |
|---|---|---|
| S1 Visa | For spouse, parent, child under 18, or parent-in-law of a foreigner residing in China for work or study. | 180 days or more |
| S2 Visa | For family members of a foreigner staying in China for work or study. | Less than 180 days |
The source notes it is difficult to find an official Chinese government website detailing the policy for international students. The Visa for China site is described as a commercial service organisation recognised by Chinese embassies.
Application requirements
Countries have specific requirements for dependant visa applications. Common requests include proof of relationship like marriage or birth certificates, evidence of financial means, and health insurance. In Canada, for example, a spouse must typically be married for at least one year and may need to undergo a language proficiency test.
The report serves as a guide for students considering studying abroad with their families, highlighting both increasing restrictions and remaining opportunities.
