How to Study Abroad with Spouse and Children
Study abroad with spouse and children — dependent visa rules for UK, Canada, Australia, and Germany for Indian students in 2026.
Quick Answer
Studying abroad with a spouse and children is entirely possible — but each country has different dependent visa rules, and post-January 2024 UK policy changes restrict most taught master's students from bringing dependants. Canada remains the most family-friendly destination.
Step-by-Step Solution
- 1
Canada — most family-friendly; spouse gets open work permit
Canadian study permit holders with full-time programs at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) can apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit. Spouse works full-time legally in any occupation. Children attend Canadian public schools free. Budget CAD 2,000–3,500/month additional for family.
- 2
Australia — family on Subclass 500
Spouse and children included as secondary applicants on Subclass 500. Spouse can work 48 hours/fortnight during student's enrollment. OSHC (health cover) covers family. Public schools free for children in most states.
- 3
UK — PhD only post-January 2024 changes
From January 2024, most international taught master's students can NO LONGER bring dependants to the UK. Exceptions: PhD students, government-sponsored students, and students on ATAS-required programs. PhD applicants: spouse can work full-time on UK Dependant visa.
- 4
Germany — family reunification visa
Partners can join on a Family Reunification visa. German A1 language requirement often applies for non-EU partners. Children attend German public schools free. More complex process than Canada/Australia but viable.
- 5
Budget comprehensively for family costs
Visa fees per dependant: £300–600. Additional health cover: £1,000–3,000/year. Child school fees (international school): free in Canada/Australia for public school. Living cost increase: CAD 2,000–3,500/month (Canada), AUD 1,500–2,500/month (Australia).
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Country-Specific Options
Best for families — spouse gets full open work permit
Spousal Open Work Permit: full-time work in any occupation. Free public school for children. Most family-friendly study destination globally.
Family on Subclass 500 — spouse works part-time
Spouse included on Subclass 500. 48 hrs/fortnight work rights. Free public school in most states. OSHC covers family.
PhD only post-2024 — taught master's dependants restricted
January 2024 rule change: most taught master's cannot bring dependants. PhD + government-sponsored: dependants permitted, spouse can work full-time.
Family reunification — A1 German often required
Partner joins on family reunification visa. German A1 required in some cases. Free public schools. More complex process but viable.
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Topical Cluster
Study in Canada
Topical cluster for studying in Canada — PGWP, Express Entry PR, SDS visa, MBA, CS, and engineering programs.
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