Embarking on a journey to study abroad is an exciting prospect for students, but when you have a family to consider, it becomes even more important to find a destination that accommodates everyone’s needs.
One significant aspect to consider is the ability for your spouse or common-law partner to work while you pursue your studies.
In this blog post, we will explore several countries that offer work visas for spouses or partners of international students, enabling them to find employment and contribute to the family’s financial stability.
As it is equally important to stay informed about recent changes in immigration policies, particularly those affecting students moving with their families; we shall also look at the UK’s recently implemented regulations that impact students planning to study and move with their families to the country.
Following are some countries that allow students to move with their families and obtain work visas for their spouses or common-law partners:
- Canada:
Known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse culture, Canada is an excellent choice for students with families.
Canada allows the spouse of an international student to apply for a work permit, which is valid for the duration of the student’s study program.
The country offers an open work permit for spouses or common-law partners of full-time international students enrolled in eligible programs.
This work permit allows them to work in any occupation during the student’s studies.
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada – “Work permits for spouses or partners.”
- Australia:
Australia’s high-quality education system and vibrant cities make it an attractive destination for international students.
The country provides the opportunity for spouses or partners of students with a valid student visa to obtain unrestricted work rights for the duration of the student’s course.
The spouse of an international student in Australia can apply for a work visa, which is valid for the same period as the student’s study visa.
Source: Department of Home Affairs Australia – “Work rights for family members of student visa holders.”
- Germany:
Renowned for its world-class universities and strong economy, Germany offers various visa options for families of international students.
Spouses or partners of students studying a recognized degree program can apply for a residence permit that allows them to work without any restrictions.
Your family members joining you during your studies can work with a family reunion visa in Germany.
For example, after arriving in Germany with a family reunion visa, your spouse will have around 3 months to convert that German spouse visa into a residence permit for spouses.
Source: Make it in Germany – “Family reunification.”
- New Zealand:
Known for its breathtaking landscapes and quality education, New Zealand also offers work rights for the spouses or partners of students.
They can apply for an open work visa, allowing them to work in any job or industry for the duration of the student’s visa.
The partners of full-time international students in New Zealand can apply for a work visa that allows them to work for any employer for the duration of the student’s studies.
The New Zealand Partner of a Student Work Visa allows you to work in New Zealand if you have a partner who is studying an eligible level 7 or 8 qualification or any level 9 or 10 qualification.
Length of stay: Same duration as Your partner’s student visa
Source: Immigration New Zealand – “Partners of students.”
- Norway:
Norway allows the spouse of an international student to apply for a work permit if the student is studying a full-time study program.
- Sweden:
The spouses of international students in Sweden can apply for a work permit if the student is studying a post-secondary program for at least one year.
- Denmark:
In Denmark, the spouses of international students can apply for a work permit that allows them to work full-time.
Recent Ban on Movement with a Family Member to the UK:
The British government announced that from January 2024, international students studying in the UK will no longer be able to bring dependents with them on their student visa, aside from those on research postgraduate programmes.
The UK government has suspended the ability for student dependents, including spouses and partners, to accompany students on their Tier 4 student visas.
The announcement, made in a written statement by home secretary Suella Braverman, stated that the government is “removing the right for international students to bring dependants unless they are on postgraduate courses currently designated as research programmes”.
According to statistics from the Home Office, about 136,000 visas were granted to dependants of sponsored students in the year ending December 2022, a more than eightfold increase from 16,000 in 2019.
The statement also said that the government would remove the ability for students to switch out of their student visa to a working visa before they have completed their studies.
Alternative options for families looking to move to the UK may include exploring other visa routes, such as the Tier 2 (General) work visa for the spouse or partner.
It is advisable to consult with immigration experts or check the official UK government website for the most up-to-date information and alternative options.
Conclusion:
When considering studying abroad as a student with a family, it’s crucial to explore countries that offer work visas for spouses or partners.
Canada, Australia, Germany, and New Zealand are among the countries that provide opportunities for spouses to work while their partner studies.
However, it’s essential to stay up to date with immigration policies, as countries may change their regulations over time.
Always consult official government sources and seek professional advice to ensure a smooth transition for you and your family.
Moving abroad can be an enriching experience for both students and their families, opening doors to new cultures, opportunities, and personal growth.
