Question:
Can dependants move with applicant to study in Switzerland for a scholarship in peace and conflicts field?
Answer:
Yes, it is possible for dependants to accompany an applicant studying in Switzerland on a scholarship, but it depends on the specific visa and residency regulations, as well as the policies of the scholarship and the institution you're applying to.
Here are the general steps and considerations for bringing dependants to Switzerland while studying:
1. Student Visa for Switzerland
If you're accepted into a Swiss university for a scholarship in the field of peace and conflict studies, you will likely need a student visa to study in Switzerland. While studying in Switzerland, students can typically apply to bring their dependants (spouse, children, etc.) through the family reunification process.
2. Family Reunification
To bring your dependants with you, you will need to apply for a family reunification visa. The Swiss authorities have specific guidelines about who qualifies as a dependant:
- Spouse: Your husband, wife, or civil partner.
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Children: Dependent children under the age of 18 (and sometimes up to 25, if they are still financially dependent on you).
The process typically involves submitting proof of relationship (such as marriage and birth certificates), and demonstrating that you can financially support your dependants while living in Switzerland.
3. Financial Proof
You must show that you can financially support both yourself and your dependants during your stay in Switzerland. This might include providing details of your scholarship, bank statements, and any other financial resources. Swiss immigration authorities want to ensure that students and their dependants won’t become a burden on the country’s welfare system.
4. Accommodation
You will need to provide evidence of suitable accommodation for both you and your dependants. This may be in the form of a rental agreement or confirmation of housing arrangements.
5. Health Insurance
Switzerland requires that everyone, including dependants, has valid health insurance while living in the country. You will need to ensure that your dependants are covered under an appropriate health insurance plan.
6. Scholarship Policies
Some scholarships have specific rules about dependants, so it is important to check with the scholarship provider if they offer any support for dependants or if the scholarship terms allow family members to join the applicant in Switzerland. Some scholarships may offer benefits like allowances for dependants or additional funding for accommodation or living expenses, though this is not always the case.
7. Residency Permits
Once approved, both you and your dependants will be issued a residency permit that allows you to stay in Switzerland for the duration of your study and family reunification process. The permit is usually tied to the length of your study program.
8. Working Rights for Dependants
In some cases, dependants may be allowed to work part-time during their stay in Switzerland, but this depends on the type of permit issued. Typically, dependants can work if the main applicant is studying at a Swiss university.
Conclusion
It is generally possible for dependants to join the applicant while studying in Switzerland, but there are several requirements to meet, including financial support, accommodation, health insurance, and the family reunification process. Make sure to carefully check the specific visa and scholarship conditions, and contact Swiss immigration authorities or the university’s international office for detailed guidance tailored to your situation.
