Dependant visas: Five countries that allow you to study abroad without leaving your family behind

Studying abroad can be life-changing, but for students with spouses or children, the emotional toll of leaving loved ones behind can be overwhelming, and in some cases, a deal breaker. While young, single students may find the separation easier to handle, those with families often face a tougher decision.

Thankfully, several countries understand the importance of keeping families together and offer dependent visa options for international students.

These programs not only allow spouses and children to join the student but often grant them the right to work, study, and fully engage in life abroad.

If you dream of earning a degree overseas without putting your family life on pause, here are five countries that make it possible to pursue your academic goals together.

1. Germany

Germany offers the full package: world-class education, strong family support, and solid career prospects. With its Family Reunion Visa, international students can bring their loved ones along while pursuing their degrees. Renowned for its affordability, robust economy, and high quality of life, Germany is also one of the top places in Europe to raise a family.

What you need:

* Proof of sufficient funds and accommodation

* Valid marriage license

* Partner must be over 18 and speak basic German (A1 CEFR level)

* Enrolled in a course of at least one year

Once approved, spouses can also work full-time if they meet eligibility requirements. Add in world-class healthcare, public transportation, and an excellent education system, and it’s no surprise that Germany is such an attractive option.

2. Australia

Australia offers one of the most flexible dependent visa options for international students. Whether you include your spouse and children in your initial visa application or apply after your studies begin, the country’s student visa (subclass 500) allows dependents to join you.

Eligibility includes:

* Spouse and unmarried children under 18

* Proof of relationship (marriage/birth certificates, lease agreements)

* Evidence of sufficient funds and health insurance

* Children’s school enrollment documents (if applicable)

Dependents can work!                   

If you’re pursuing undergraduate studies, your spouse can work up to 48 hours per fortnight.

If you’re studying at the postgraduate level, there are no work limitations for your spouse.

With the Australian government raising the skilled migrant salary threshold to A$70,000, bringing your family might also lead to long-term opportunities.

3. Canada

A welcoming country that values family unity. Canada has long been a favourite among international students — and for good reason. In addition to top-ranked universities and a multicultural environment, Canada lets you bring your spouse and family through its spousal open work permit and dependent child visa options.

Requirements include:

* Valid student permit

* Marriage certificate (must have been married for at least one year)

* Language proficiency test (for spouse)

* Proof of funds and relationship documents

Spouses are granted an open work permit, allowing them to work full-time while you study. Children can also join and enrol in Canadian schools.

Canada’s Immigration Plan for 2024–2026 emphasises family reunification — a clear signal that you and your loved ones are welcome.

4. Finland

The happiest country in the world wants your family, too.

Finland is consistently ranked as the happiest and safest country in the world, and it offers a family-friendly approach to international students. If you’re studying there, your spouse and children can apply for a residence permit and join you during your studies.

What’s required:

* Valid passports and marriage/birth certificates

* Finnish residence application (PK1 Plus)

*Proof of finances and accommodation

Once granted, spouses can work full-time. Whether you’re enjoying Finland’s northern lights or its modern education system, your family can be right there with you.

5. New Zealand

Stunning landscapes, quality education and strong family support; New Zealand not only welcomes international students but also provides ample support for families. Through the Skilled Migrant Category and other visa streams, your spouse and children (up to 24 years old) can live, study, or work while you pursue your studies.

Key benefits:

Children are treated as domestic students in primary and secondary schools, meaning no tuition fees.

Spouses staying over six months can apply for the Partner of a Worker Work Visa, which comes with open work rights.

This means your spouse can work in any field or even run a business. A perfect mix of educational opportunity and family wellbeing.

* Studying abroad no longer means leaving your family behind. With the right destination, you can achieve your academic goals and keep your loved ones close. Whether it’s Australia’s generous work rights for spouses, Canada’s open work permits, or Germany’s supportive family reunification policies, these five countries show that you don’t have to choose between quality education and family life—you can have both.