Exchange for families: 5 countries with favorable visas for dependents in 2025
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Planning an exchange abroad is already challenging in and of itself, but when it comes to taking the family together, new concerns and requirements arise. Many professionals are hesitant to embark on this journey due to uncertainties about visas for dependents. With that in mind, we have prepared a complete guide to the countries with the best structures for those who wish to study abroad accompanied by their families in 2025.
Germany: a welcoming destination for exchange families
Germany stands out as one of the most affordable destinations for international students with families. The country offers the Family Reunification Visa (Familiennachzug), which allows spouses and children to join the student during their period of study. To qualify, you must prove a residence registration valid, housing suitable for the whole family, comprehensive health insurance and sufficient financial stability to support all dependents.
One of Germany's great differentials is that, after obtaining a residence permit, spouses can work without restrictions, making it easier for the family to adapt financially. In addition, many German universities offer education at reduced rates compared to the European standard, which makes the country even more attractive for those seeking study and work in Germany.
Australia: simplifying red tape for dependents
Australia has one of the most direct systems for students who wish to bring their families. The country works with the Student Visa (subclass 500), which allows spouses (including de facto partners) and dependent children under 18 to be included in the same main visa application. This means less red tape, as there is no need to apply for separate visas for each family member.
Australian visa benefits for dependents include:
- Spouses can work with rights that vary depending on the main student's course
- For undergraduate programs, spouses can work up to 40 biweekly hours
- For master's or doctorate degrees, work is allowed without time limitations
- Children have access to the local education system
New Zealand: flexibility for tertiary students
The country offers especially favorable conditions for students in advanced programs who wish to bring their families. The country distinguishes benefits according to the level of study, with significant advantages for those pursuing doctorates or higher education qualifications (7 to 10 on the country scale).
For students in doctoral programs or level 9 or 10 qualifications, New Zealand allows spouses to apply for work visas, allowing them to work professionally without restrictions throughout their period of study. Dependent children, on the other hand, can obtain student visas, which guarantee them access to local schools with domestic student status — a considerable financial advantage, as fees for international students are often significantly higher. Ao study and work in New Zealand, even students in shorter programs can support visitor visas for their family members, although with more limited rights.
Spain: cultural integration and quality of life
Spain is positioned as an attractive option for exchange families seeking not only educational opportunities, but also quality of life and cultural wealth. The country offers the Family Reunification Visa, which allows spouses, registered partners, and children under 18 (or dependents for health reasons) to join the student. However, it is important to note that there is an initial requirement: the student must have resided legally in Spain for at least one year with a valid student permit before being able to request the arrival of dependents.
The process to bring the family to Spain involves the following steps:
- The student completes one year of legal residence with a renewed student permit
- The student acts as a sponsor, initiating the family reunification process
- Family members apply for the visa at the Spanish consulate in their country of origin
- Upon approval, dependents have 90 days to join the student in Spain
- Initially, family members are not allowed to work, but they can request authorization later
Canada: Recent Changes and Important Considerations
Despite some updates to its migration policies for 2025, the country keeps its doors open for families, especially for students in programs of longer duration and qualification. The spouses of students in Public College in Canada those who are pursuing master's degrees of 16 months or more, doctorates or selected professional programs remain eligible for open work permits, which represents a significant advantage.
Even with the new goal of 395,000 permanent residents and the limit of 437,000 study permits for 2025, the country remains a good option for families, the exceptional quality of life, the high standard of education, and security make Canada a destination that still deserves to be considered, requiring only more careful planning.
Advance preparation: documentation and long-term planning
A crucial factor for the success of the family exchange is the preparation of the necessary documentation in advance. Each country has specific requirements, and gathering all the documents can be a lengthy process, especially when it involves multiple people. Marriage certificates, birth certificates, financial receipts, and health insurance are just the beginning of the list.
It is recommended to start planning at least one year in advance, considering not only the bureaucratic issues, but also practical aspects such as the adaptation of the children to the new educational system and the possible language barrier. Preparatory language courses for the whole family before the trip can make a big difference in the initial adaptation. Researching neighborhoods suitable for families and schools are important steps to a successful experience.
Be Easy
Na Be Easy, we understand the specific challenges of planning an exchange with dependents and offer specialized advice for families. Our advisors can assist in choosing the ideal destination considering the needs of each family member, in addition to providing guidance on visa processes, financial requirements, and educational options for children. Get in touch with us today!
