Moving abroad to study is an exciting journey, but what if you want to bring your family along? Not all countries allow international students to move with their spouses and children immediately. Some require additional steps, while others make it nearly impossible.
If you’re considering studying in Spain, Italy, Romania, Portugal, or the Netherlands, this guide will help you understand your options. We’ll break down:
✅ Which countries allow you to bring your family on a student visa
✅ The requirements for family reunification
✅ The financial and accommodation proofs needed
✅ Common pitfalls to avoid
Let’s dive in.
📌 Studying in Spain: Can You Bring Your Family?
Spain is a popular destination for international students, but its student visa policies can be tricky. Here’s what you need to know:
✔ You CAN bring your family: Spain allows student visa holders to bring their spouses and children.
❌ Public universities are preferred: The Spanish embassy prioritizes student visa appointments for those attending public universities over private institutions.
✔ Family members need separate visas: Even though Spain allows dependents, your family members will need to apply for their own visas under the “family reunification” process.
🔹 Important Tip: If you’re planning to study in Spain, ensure you apply to a public university to increase your chances of securing a visa appointment.
👉 Learn more about Spain’s student visa requirements
📌 Moving to Romania as a Student: Family Restrictions
Romania has recently joined the European Union, making it an attractive study destination. However, its policies on student visas and family reunification are strict.
❌ You CANNOT bring your family immediately: Romania does not allow international students to bring dependents when applying for a student visa.
✔ Family reunification is possible LATER: After securing a residence permit and proving financial stability, you may be able to invite your family.
✔ Strong passport benefits: If you later obtain Romanian residency, it can open doors to EU travel and work opportunities.
🔹 Key Advice: If bringing your family is a priority, Romania may not be the best option unless you’re prepared to relocate alone first.
👉 Check Romania’s visa rules here
📌 Studying in Italy: Can You Move with Your Family?
Italy has some of the most student-friendly policies in Europe, but does it allow international students to move with their families immediately?
❌ You CANNOT bring your family when you first move as a student.
✔ Reuniting with your family is possible later: After securing a residence permit and proving financial means, you can apply for family reunification.
✔ Easy invitation process: Italy has a structured process to invite family members, but you must show accommodation proof and financial stability.
🔹 Accommodation Requirement: You need to prove that your family will have sufficient housing, with a minimum space requirement per person.
👉 Read more about Italy’s family reunification visa
📌 Netherlands: Bringing Your Family on a Student Visa
The Netherlands has a strong education system but strict rules about family reunification for international students.
❌ You CANNOT bring your family immediately: Your dependents cannot apply alongside you.
✔ You can invite them later: Once you have legal residence and meet financial requirements, you can apply for family reunification.
✔ Strict accommodation policies: In the Netherlands, children of different genders cannot share a room past a certain age.
🔹 Key Consideration: If moving with your family is a priority, you must plan your finances and housing carefully.
👉 Check Netherlands’ student visa requirements
📌 Portugal: Can Students Bring Their Families?
Portugal is one of the few European countries where student visa holders have an easier time bringing their families.
✔ You CAN move with your family: Portugal allows student visa holders to bring their spouse and children.
✔ Financial requirements apply: You need to prove you can support your family financially.
✔ Housing proof is required: Similar to Italy and the Netherlands, you need adequate accommodation.
🔹 Important Tip: The cost of living in Portugal is lower than in many European countries, making it a more affordable choice for students with families.
👉 Check Portugal’s student visa rules
🔍 Quick Comparison: Which Countries Allow Family to Move with Students?
| Country | Can You Move with Family Immediately? | Can You Bring Family Later? | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spain | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Prefer public universities |
| Romania | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Financial proof required |
| Italy | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Housing and financial proof |
| Netherlands | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Strict accommodation rules |
| Portugal | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Financial and housing proof |
🚨 Common Pitfalls When Applying for a Student Visa with Family
1️⃣ Not researching visa rules beforehand – Policies change frequently, so always check official embassy websites.
2️⃣ Applying for private universities in Spain – This can delay or even block your visa process.
3️⃣ Ignoring financial proof requirements – Many countries require a minimum bank balance to prove you can support your family.
4️⃣ Overlooking accommodation regulations – In some countries, children must have separate rooms based on gender and age.
5️⃣ Expecting to work on a visitor visa – Some people try to move on a short-stay visa and then work illegally, but this is risky and often leads to deportation.
🛠️ Practical Tips for Students Moving with Family
✔ Choose a country that allows dependents upfront – If moving with your family is non-negotiable, Spain and Portugal are your best bets.
✔ Plan financially – Have a stable source of income or savings to meet family reunification requirements.
✔ Sort out accommodation early – If a country requires specific housing arrangements, start looking for options in advance.
✔ Stay updated on visa laws – Rules change, so regularly check official sources before applying.
✔ Work with an immigration consultant – If the process seems complex, getting professional help can save time and prevent costly mistakes.
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I work while studying in Europe?
Yes! Most European countries allow students to work part-time. However, the number of hours varies.
👉 Example: In Spain, students can work 20 hours per week, while in Italy, they can work up to 1,040 hours per year.
2. Which European country is the cheapest for international students?
Romania and Portugal have some of the lowest tuition fees and living costs compared to Spain, Italy, or the Netherlands.
3. Can I switch from a student visa to a work visa?
This depends on the country. Some, like Germany, allow students to transition to a work visa after graduation, while others, like the Netherlands, require employer sponsorship.
👉 Check work visa rules for European countries
🚀 Final Thoughts: Which Country Should You Choose?
If moving with your family immediately is a priority, Spain and Portugal are the best options.
If you’re willing to relocate alone and apply for family reunification later, Italy, Romania, and the Netherlands are still good choices.
✅ Do your research
✅ Plan financially
✅ Follow official visa requirements
Need more insights? Check embassy websites and consult an immigration expert before making your decision.
Would you like help finding affordable universities or student visa application tips? Let us know in the comments! 😊
