Studying abroad does not always mean leaving your loved ones behind. Many European countries allow international students to bring their spouse and children to live with them during their studies, provided certain conditions are met. Thanks to family-friendly immigration policies, high-quality education systems, and strong social support, Europe has become an attractive destination for students who wish to pursue higher education without being separated from their families.

Below are 10 European countries where international students can study while living with their family members.

1. Germany

Germany is one of the most popular study destinations in Europe, especially for students planning to move with their families. Under Germany’s family reunification policy, international students can apply to bring their spouse and children after securing a residence permit.

Key benefits:

• Most public universities charge little to no tuition fees

• Spouses are generally allowed to work full-time

• Children can attend public schools free of charge

University links:

• Technical University of Munich: https://www.tum.de

• Heidelberg University: https://www.uni-heidelberg.de

2. Finland

Finland is widely regarded as one of the most family-friendly countries in Europe. International students holding a residence permit can apply for family members to join them.

Key benefits:

• Spouses can work without restrictions

• Children have access to Finland’s high-quality public education system

• Safe environment and strong social welfare

University links:

• University of Helsinki: https://www.helsinki.fi

• Aalto University: https://www.aalto.fi

3. Sweden

Sweden allows international students to bring close family members during their study period, provided they meet financial and housing requirements.

Key benefits:

• Spouses are allowed to work

• Children can enroll in public schools

• Access to healthcare and social services

University links:

• Lund University: https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se

• Uppsala University: https://www.uu.se

4. The Netherlands

The Netherlands offers a well-structured family reunification system for international students. Students must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support dependents.

Key benefits:

• High standard of living

• Wide range of English-taught programs

• Safe and family-friendly society

University links:

• University of Amsterdam: https://www.uva.nl

• Delft University of Technology: https://www.tudelft.nl

5. France

International students holding a long-term study visa in France may apply for family reunification under specific conditions.

Key benefits:

• Children can attend public schools

• Spouses may work subject to certain conditions

• Relatively low tuition fees at public universities

University links:

• Sorbonne University: https://www.sorbonne-universite.fr

• Université Paris-Saclay: https://www.universite-paris-saclay.fr

6. Denmark

Denmark is known for its high quality of life and family-oriented policies. International students can bring their immediate family members during their studies.

Key benefits:

• Spouses are allowed to work full-time

• Free public education for children

• Post-study job search opportunities

University links:

• University of Copenhagen: https://www.ku.dk

• Technical University of Denmark (DTU): https://www.dtu.dk

7. Norway

Norway offers excellent living standards and strong social support, making it an appealing destination for students with families.

Key benefits:

• Family members are permitted to join students

• Public universities often charge little or no tuition fees

• Free education and healthcare for children

University links:

• University of Oslo: https://www.uio.no

• Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU): https://www.ntnu.edu

8. Italy

Italy is a relatively affordable European study destination with options for family reunification.

Key benefits:

• Family reunification permits are available

• Public schooling for children

• Scholarships and tuition fee reductions

University links:

• University of Milan: https://www.unimi.it

• University of Bologna: https://www.unibo.it

9. Spain

Spain allows international students to bring family members after meeting residence and financial requirements.

Key benefits:

• Lower cost of living compared to many EU countries

• Family-friendly lifestyle

• Easy travel across Europe

University links:

• University of Barcelona: https://www.ub.edu

• Complutense University of Madrid: https://www.ucm.es

10. Austria

Austria offers a peaceful living environment and a strong education system, making it suitable for students with families.

Key benefits:

• Family reunification permits available

• Free or low-cost public education for children

• Central European location

University links:

• University of Vienna: https://www.univie.ac.at

• Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien): https://www.tuwien.at

Studying in Europe with your family is no longer an unrealistic goal. With proper planning, financial preparation, and an understanding of immigration rules, international students can pursue high-quality education in countries like Germany, Finland, Sweden, France, and beyond—without being separated from their loved ones. These countries not only offer world-class universities but also provide safe living environments, social benefits, and long-term career opportunities.