When a married applicant leaves for a foreign country, they leave a big and important part of their life at home. For couples to lead a successful and fulfilling life, they need their spouse with them in the foreign country.
This is where the concept of Spouse Dependent Visa comes in.

A spouse dependent visa allows the spouse of an individual who holds a valid visa or work permit to accompany them and reside in the host country.

Let’s explore the concept and importance of spouse dependent visas, with a special focus on the requirements and considerations for Indian applicants seeking spouse dependent visas in popular destinations like Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Understanding Spouse Dependent Visas:

A spouse dependent visa, also known as a spouse visa or family visa, is a legal document that enables the spouse of a visa holder or a work permit holder to join them in a foreign country for a specific period of time.
It is designed to make sure that a family and couple stays together in the long run. Spouse dependent visas grant the accompanying spouse the right to live, work, and access certain benefits in the host country.

Importance of Spouse Dependent Visa:

Spouse dependent visas holds a special place in the livesof couples who wish to be together while one partner pursues opportunities abroad.
Here are a few reasons why spouse dependent visas are veryimportant:

- Maintaining Family Unity:

Spouse dependent visas promote the concept of family unity by allowing couples to reside together in the host country. They empower spouses to support each other, maintain a stable family life, and share experiences in a new culture and country together while one partner pursues their professional or educational goals.

- Legal Authorization:

By obtaining a spouse dependent visa, the accompanying spouse gains legal authorization to reside in the host country. This provides peace of mind and ensures compliance with immigration laws, protecting both the spouse and the sponsoring partner.

- Access to Employment and Benefits:

In many cases, spouse dependent visas allow the accompanying spouse to work and access certain benefits in the host country. This provides an opportunity for professional growth, financial independence, and integration into the local community.

Spouse Dependent Visas for Indian Applicants:

Canada:

Canada offers spouse dependent visas under the Family Class Sponsorship program. The process for Indian applicants generally involves:

- Sponsorship Eligibility:

The sponsoring spouse (Canadian citizen or permanent resident) must meet the eligibility criteria and be able to financially support their spouse.

- Sponsorship Application:

The sponsoring spouse submits a sponsorship application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

- Permanent Residence Application:

Once the sponsorship is approved, the sponsored spouse applies for permanent residence in Canada.

United Kingdom:

The United Kingdom offers spouse dependent visas under the Family Visa category.

The process for Indian applicants typically includes:

- A Set of Financial Requirement:

The sponsoring partner needs to meet the minimum income threshold to demonstrate their ability to support their spouse.

- Relationship Documentation:

The applicant needs to provide an evidence of a genuinerelationship, including marriage or civil partnership certificates, joint financial commitments, and shared accommodation.

- English Language Proficiency Requirement:

The sponsored spouse may need to demonstrate English language proficiency as needed by the host country.

United States:

The United States offers spouse dependent visas, such as the K-3 visa for spouses of U.S.
citizens and the K-4 visa for dependent children.

For Indian applicants, the general process involves:

- Sponsorship Petition:

The U.S. citizen spouse files an immigrant petition on behalf of their Indian spouse with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

- Visa Application:

Once the petition is approved, the Indian spouse applies for a visa at the U.S. embassy or consulate in India.

- Adjustment of Status:

After entering the United States, the Indian spouse can apply for an adjustment of status to obtain lawful permanent residency.

Considerations for Spouse Dependent Visas:

- Documentation:

Applicants should gather and submit all required documentation, including marriage certificates, proof of relationship, financial records, and any additional supporting documents specified by the host country's immigration authorities.

- Financial Requirements:

Many countries have financial thresholds that the sponsoring partner must meet to demonstrate their ability to support their spouse. It is important to understand and fulfill these requirements to ensure a smooth application process.

- Language Proficiency:

Some countries require the sponsored spouse to demonstrate English language proficiency through standardized tests or interviews. Adequate preparation for these language requirements is essential.

Spouse dependent visas play an important role in helping the couples live together when one partner seeks opportunities abroad.
For Indian applicants looking to join their spouse in countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States, understanding the concepts, importance, and specific requirements of spouse dependent visas is essential for a successful application. By understanding the process diligently and fulfilling all necessary criteria, couples can stay together and work on building their bonds across borders and live a happier life.

To know more, speak to us.