Lagos, Nigeria — For international students, the decision on where to study in 2025 increasingly depends not only on tuition and university rankings but also on family-inclusive immigration policies. Many countries have updated their dependent visa rules, making it easier for spouses to live, work, and sometimes study during the academic program.
Here’s an overview of key destinations and their spousal visa provisions:
Australia
The Australian Department of Home Affairs allows spouses to be included in a Subclass 500 student visa application or added later as dependents. Partners of postgraduate research students (Master’s by Research and PhD) enjoy unrestricted work rights, while others are limited to 48 work hours per fortnight after course commencement. Spouses can also undertake short-term studies without a separate visa, keeping Australia among the most accommodating destinations for student couples.
Canada
Effective January 21, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) revised eligibility for the Spousal Open Work Permit. It now applies only to spouses of students in master’s programs lasting 16 months or more, doctoral programs, or certain professional degrees, excluding most undergraduates. Approved permits align with the student’s study duration and grant full work authorization, reinforcing Canada’s appeal for postgraduate families.
New Zealand
Immigration New Zealand offers the Partner of a Student Work Visa, enabling spouses of eligible students to work full-time and pursue short-term studies without an additional visa. This policy, coupled with New Zealand’s safe environment and quality of life, makes it attractive for couples.
United Kingdom
The UK Home Office permits dependents only for students enrolled in postgraduate research courses (e.g., PhD, MRes, MPhil) or government-sponsored programs. Eligible spouses can work without restrictions, though the policy has recently tightened, making early verification essential.
United States
Spouses of F-1 visa holders receive F-2 visas, which allow residence but not employment. They can study part-time, while full-time post-secondary study requires an F-1 visa. In contrast, J-2 visas, available for J-1 exchange visitors’ spouses, permit work authorization upon application. While restrictive, the U.S. remains desirable for its globally ranked universities.
Germany
Germany’s Family Reunion Visa allows spouses of international students to join them with full work rights once residence permits are granted, typically marked “Erwerbstätigkeit gestattet.” Applicants must provide proof of income, housing, health insurance, and sometimes basic German skills. Combined with low tuition and a strong job market, Germany is an increasingly popular choice.
By Adeola Olaniya | August 25, 2025.
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