Family Considerations Now Central to Nigerians’ Study Abroad Decisions

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As the number of Nigerians seeking higher education abroad continues to rise, family support has emerged as a decisive factor influencing where students choose to study.

Beyond tuition fees and global university rankings, many prospective students now weigh whether their spouses and dependents can accompany them—and whether those family members will be allowed to work or study during the academic programme.

In 2025, several leading study destinations have revised their dependent and spousal visa policies, reducing the strain of separation and easing financial pressure on international families.

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Australia: Flexible Options for Couples

The Australian Department of Home Affairs permits students to include spouses when applying for the Subclass 500 visa or later through a dependent route.

• Postgraduate research spouses (Master’s by Research or PhD) enjoy full-time work rights.

• Partners of other students are capped at 48 working hours per fortnight.

• Dependent partners may also pursue short-term study programmes without applying for a separate visa.

This balance of work flexibility and study opportunities keeps Australia among the most attractive destinations for student couples.

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Canada: Tighter Rules, Postgraduate Focus

Since January 21, 2025, Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has narrowed eligibility for the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP).

• Only spouses of students in master’s programmes (16 months+), PhDs, or professional degrees qualify.

• Most undergraduate spouses are excluded.

• Approved spouses receive permits that mirror the student’s study duration and can work for any employer.

Despite the stricter scope, Canada remains appealing thanks to public healthcare access and streamlined application processes for eligible families.

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New Zealand: Work-Friendly Environment

Immigration New Zealand offers the Partner of a Student Work Visa to spouses of students in approved courses.

• Dependents can work full-time.

• They may also study for up to three months without a separate visa.

With its reputation for safety and high living standards, New Zealand is an attractive option for student families seeking stability.

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United Kingdom: Restricted to Research Students

Under the UK Home Office’s Student Dependent Visa policy, only:

• Postgraduate researchers (PhD, MRes, MPhil)

• Or students on government-sponsored programmes

…are eligible to bring spouses.

Spouses who qualify can work without restrictions, though the policy has undergone several adjustments, requiring applicants to verify eligibility before applying.

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United States: Limited Spousal Rights

The U.S. immigration system distinguishes between two main visa categories:

• F-1 student spouses (F-2 visas): Residence allowed, but no employment rights. Part-time study permitted, but full-time requires switching to an F-1 visa.

• J-1 exchange spouses (J-2 visas): May apply for work authorisation, offering more flexibility.

While more restrictive than other destinations, the U.S. remains popular for its top-ranked universities and research opportunities.

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Germany: Strong Work Rights for Spouses

Germany’s Family Reunion Visa enables international students to reunite with their spouses.

• Once residence permits are granted, spouses typically enjoy full employment rights, often marked as “Erwerbstätigkeit gestattet”.

• Requirements include proof of housing, health insurance, financial capacity, and sometimes basic German language skills.

Coupled with low or tuition-free education and strong demand for skilled workers in engineering and IT, Germany is increasingly drawing Nigerian students and their families despite its more complex application process.

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Outlook

With family-friendly policies becoming a competitive factor, Nigerian students are now more likely to select destinations that offer both academic advancement and inclusive support systems for their loved ones.