Dependent Family Visas: Bringing Your Family to Canada, Australia, UK, USA and NZ
Comprehensive guide to dependent family visa programs across major immigration destinations. Compare spousal work rights, dependent study options, and family immigration timelines.
Dependent Family Visa Programs
Most immigration programs allow you to include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children in your application. Understanding the rights and restrictions for family members across different countries is essential for planning your move.
Canada Dependent Immigration
Canada offers the most family-friendly policies among major immigration destinations. Spouses and common-law partners included in a permanent residence application receive open work permits upon arrival and can work for any employer. Dependent children under 22 receive permanent residence automatically. Children over 22 who have depended on their parents since before age 22 due to physical or mental conditions may also qualify. Canada's family sponsorship program allows PR holders and citizens to sponsor parents and grandparents for super visas or permanent residence.
Australia Dependent Visas
Australia allows skilled visa holders to include immediate family members. Spouses included in Subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas have full work and study rights. Dependent children must be under 18 (or under 23 if financially dependent) and unmarried. Australia's Partner Visa pathway requires a two-stage process: temporary partner visa followed by permanent partner visa after two years. The Parent Visa program has significant waiting periods of 10-30 years for non-contributory categories. The Contributory Parent Visa processes faster but costs approximately AUD 47,000 per applicant.
UK Dependent Visas
UK Skilled Worker visa holders can bring dependents who have full work rights and access to public education. Recent policy changes restrict dependents for Health and Care Worker visa holders and students. Dependents of Skilled Worker visa holders can work for any employer and study. After five years, dependents can apply for indefinite leave to remain independently of the main applicant. Financial requirements include showing maintenance funds of GBP 630 per dependent.
USA Dependent Immigration
US dependent policies vary by visa category. H-4 dependents of H-1B holders may apply for work authorization only in specific circumstances (H-1B holder with approved I-140). L-2 spouses of L-1 intracompany transferees have employment authorization. F-2 dependents of F-1 students cannot work. Dependents of US permanent residents face significant waiting periods under the family preference system, with some categories requiring 5-10 years for visa availability.
New Zealand Dependent Visas
New Zealand offers open work rights for partners of skilled migrant visa holders with genuine relationships. Dependent children under 24 included in principal applications receive visitor or student visas. Partners of student visa holders may qualify for visitor visas only. After two years of residence, dependents can apply for permanent residence independently. The Parent Retirement Category requires significant financial investment.