6 Best Countries to Study with Family: Looking to study abroad without leaving your lovely wife and kids? Discover the top 6 countries where international students like you can bring their families along, with dependent visa options and work opportunities for spouses.
Studying abroad opens the door to better education, career prospects, and global exposure. But for students with spouses and children, the dream of studying overseas can feel incomplete, or even impossible, if it means leaving family behind.
The good news? Many countries now offer dependent visa programs that allow international students to bring their families along. These countries not only support family reunification but also provide work and study opportunities for spouses and children.
In this blog post, we’ll explore 6 Best Countries to Study with Family, so you can pursue your goals without jeopardizing togetherness with spouse and children. Let’s get started!
1. Australia: Family-Friendly with Flexible Work Rights
Australia remains one of the most popular study destinations, and not just for solo students. With the Subclass 500 student visa, international students can bring their spouse and dependent children.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Spouse and unmarried children under 18
- Proof of relationship
- Proof of financial stability (PoF)
- Health insurance for all family members
- School enrolment documents (for children)
Work Benefits:
- Spouses of undergraduate students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight
- Spouses of postgraduate students can work full-time
With Australia’s growing demand for skilled workers, your family’s relocation could also lead to long-term residency pathways.
2. Canada: Open Work Permits for Spouses
Canada is a top-tier study destination that places strong emphasis on family reunification. International students can apply for Spousal Open Work Permits and Dependent Child Visas, allowing their loved ones to live, work, and study during their academic program.
Key Requirements:
- Valid student permit
- Marriage certificate (minimum of 1 year)
- Proof of relationship and financial means
- Language proficiency test for the spouse (in some cases)
Why It Stands Out:
- Spouses can work full-time
- Children can attend public schools
- Immigration plans support long-term settlement for families
3. Germany: Affordable and Family-Oriented
Germany combines free or low-tuition education with generous family policies. Through the Family Reunion Visa, your spouse and children can join you while you study in one of Europe’s most developed countries.
Requirements:
- Proof of sufficient funds and housing
- Valid marriage certificate
- Spouse must be over 18 and speak basic German (A1 level)
- Enrolled in a full-time program of at least 1 year
Benefits:
- Spouses can work full-time
- Free or low-cost healthcare and public schooling
- Affordable living compared to other Western countries
4. New Zealand: Children Study Free, Spouses Work Freely
New Zealand offers a fantastic mix of academic excellence and family support systems. If you’re an international student, your partner and dependent children (up to 24 years old) can accompany you.
Top Benefits:
- Children qualify as domestic students in public schools (no tuition fees)
- Spouses can get an open work visa if staying over 6 months
- Strong pathways to permanent residency for skilled workers
If you’re planning to build a life beyond your degree, New Zealand is a solid choice for both education and long-term settlement.
Also Read: Work in Canada Made Easy for Nigerians
5. Finland: Happiness and Family Go Hand in Hand
Finland consistently ranks as the happiest and safest country in the world, and it’s just as welcoming to families of international students.
Required Documents:
- Valid student visa and acceptance letter
- Marriage and birth certificates
- Proof of finances and accommodation
- Residence permit application (PK1 Plus)
Why Choose Finland?
- Spouses can work full-time
- Exceptional public services, healthcare, and education
- A peaceful environment ideal for raising children
If you’re looking for a stress-free, family-friendly country to study in, Finland checks all the boxes.
6. United Kingdom: Honorable Mention for Postgraduates
While the UK has recently tightened visa policies, it still allows family reunification for postgraduate particularly, it’s Masters in Research programs, otherwise, known as MRes. Students enrolled in programs in MRes programs of nine months or longer are eligible to bring family members along.
Important Notes:
- Eligible only for students in certain postgraduate programs (MRes)
- Spouses can work full-time
- Dependent children can attend UK schools
Tip: Stay updated with the latest UK immigration policy changes as they may affect eligibility and application procedures.
Study Abroad Without Leaving Family Behind
You don’t have to choose between quality education and family life. Whether it’s Australia’s flexible visas, Canada’s open work permits, or Germany’s strong family support, these six countries offer pathways to study and thrive together as a family.
As you plan your academic journey, explore the visa options for dependents, work rights for spouses, and educational access for children in your chosen destination. A world-class degree and a united home life can go hand in hand, all it takes is the right country.
Planning the process alone can be overwhelming, from admission to visa application for both you and your dependents. That’s where expert guidance comes in.
Let EF Global Travels Handle It for You
At EF Global Travels, we are well-primed to help you secure admission into top universities in any of the countries mentioned above. We also provide comprehensive visa processing services for you and your loved ones, whether you’re going solo or as a family.
We take the stress off your shoulders by handling:
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University admission guidance
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Dependent visa processing
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Document verification and embassy bookings
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Travel itinerary and relocation support
Contact us today to make your relocation dreams a reality.
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Let’s help you turn your study-abroad dreams into a reality, together with your family!
