JAPA: Top Countries Offering Student Spousal Visas

Studying abroad is no longer just about tuition fees and university rankings. For many Nigerians planning international studies, family inclusion has become a deciding factor. The ability to relocate with a spouse, and in some cases allow that partner to work or study, is reshaping how students choose their destination countries.

Several popular study destinations have updated their policies on dependent and spousal visas, making it easier for international students to balance academics with family life. Below is a breakdown of how some leading countries support students who want to relocate with their spouses.

Australia

Australia continues to be one of the most accommodating countries for student families. Under the Subclass 500 Student Visa, spouses can be included at the time of application or later through a dependent visa pathway.

• Work rights: Partners of Master’s by Research and PhD students are granted full-time work rights. For other students, work hours are generally capped at 48 hours per fortnight once the course begins.
• Study opportunities: Spouses are allowed to take short-term study programmes without needing a separate visa.

This combination of work flexibility and family-friendly policies makes Australia a top choice for couples.

Canada

Canada has refined its spousal visa rules through the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP).

• Eligible spouses include those of students in master’s programmes of 16 months or longer, doctoral degrees, or specific professional programmes.
• Most spouses of undergraduate students are no longer eligible.
• Approved partners are allowed to work for any employer, with permits usually valid for the same duration as the student’s study permit.
• Additional perks include access to public healthcare.

Though the new rules are narrower, Canada still offers a family-friendly environment for postgraduate students.

New Zealand

New Zealand provides the Partner of a Student Work Visa for spouses of students enrolled in eligible programmes.

• Spouses can work full-time and also study for up to three months without applying for a separate visa.
• The country is often praised for its safety, smaller population, and quality of life, making it attractive for families seeking a balanced lifestyle.

United Kingdom

The UK has tightened its rules regarding dependents under the Student Dependent Visa system.

• Only students on postgraduate research programmes (PhD, MRes, MPhil) or those on government-sponsored courses can bring dependents.
• Eligible spouses are allowed to work without restrictions during the study period.

While more restrictive than before, the UK still appeals to postgraduate research students who want to relocate with their families.

United States

The U.S. distinguishes between F-1 and J-1 student visa categories.

• F-1 Visa: Spouses receive an F-2 visa, which allows them to live in the U.S. but not work. They can take part-time courses, while children can attend school full-time.
• J-1 Visa: Spouses on a J-2 visa may apply for work authorisation, giving them more flexibility.

Although family work rights are limited compared to other countries, the U.S. remains attractive due to its globally ranked universities and research opportunities.

Germany

Germany has become an increasingly popular choice for international students, especially due to its affordable or tuition-free education system.

• Spouses of international students can join through the Family Reunion Visa.
• Once granted a residence permit, spouses are usually allowed to work without restrictions (often indicated with the note “Erwerbstätigkeit gestattet”).
• Applicants may need to show proof of income, housing, health insurance, and basic German language skills.

The combination of strong job opportunities, particularly in engineering and IT, and affordable education makes Germany attractive despite the slightly complex visa process.