Top 5 Countries Offering Family-Friendly Benefits for Foreign Workers

Several nations are simplifying the process for foreign workers to bring their families by offering a range of benefits, including healthcare, education, and work permits for spouses.

These family-friendly policies aim to assist skilled professionals in balancing their careers with their family lives.

Five countries are leading the way in providing robust support for foreign workers and their families, as reported by DAAD Scholarship.

Canada:

Canada offers numerous benefits to foreign workers and their families. Public healthcare is accessible to the entire family in most provinces, and children under 18 can attend public schools free of charge. There are also clear pathways for families to obtain permanent residency.

Spouses or common-law partners can apply for an Open Work Permit, granting them the right to work for any employer.

Dependent children under 22 can also join the workforce, with eligibility for some children depending on their age and educational status.

Canada’s family-oriented policies, combined with its high quality of life, make it an attractive destination for skilled professionals.

Australia:

Australia is another popular destination that provides support for workers and their families. Families are eligible for Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system, and children can attend public schools either free of charge or at a low cost. There are also pathways for family members to obtain permanent residency and citizenship.

Spouses or partners, along with dependent children under 18 (or under 23 if financially dependent), can join the worker in Australia.

Spouses can work without restrictions, while children of legal working age may also work with the necessary permits. Australia’s high standard of living and robust economy make it a prime choice for professionals seeking to relocate with their families.

Germany:

Germany offers a comprehensive system of support for foreign workers and their families. The country provides free or subsidized education for children and healthcare through its social security system. After residing in Germany for a few years, family members can apply for permanent residency.

Spouses can work under the Family Reunion Visa, and children can work part-time depending on their age and education. Germany’s strong economy, excellent public services, and opportunities for family integration make it a popular choice for skilled workers seeking to bring their families with them.

United Kingdom:

The United Kingdom offers various benefits for foreign workers and their families, including access to the National Health Service (NHS) for dependents.

Children can attend public schools free of charge, and there are opportunities for dependents to apply for permanent residency and citizenship.

Spouses and dependent children under 18 can join the worker in the UK, with spouses permitted to work full-time without restrictions.

However, children can only work if they meet specific visa criteria. The UK’s competitive job market, strong healthcare system, and cultural diversity continue to make it a top destination for skilled workers and their families.

New Zealand:

New Zealand offers a thriving environment for families of foreign workers. The country provides free access to public healthcare for the entire family, and children can attend public schools free of charge. There is also a clear pathway for the entire family to apply for permanent residency.

Spouses can apply for an Open Work Visa, allowing them to work for any employer, and dependent children can work if they meet the legal criteria. With its stunning natural landscapes and high quality of life, New Zealand remains a top choice for families seeking to settle abroad.

Family Reunification in 2025: A Brief Overview

Here’s a brief comparison of family reunification opportunities in these countries:

Canada allows spouses and children under 22, with access to healthcare, education, and work permits for family members.
Australia offers similar benefits with no restrictions on spousal employment and work opportunities for children based on age.
Germany allows spouses to work and children to work part-time, with healthcare and education benefits.
The UK provides free education and healthcare, although children’s work opportunities are more limited.
New Zealand offers a family-friendly environment, with work permits for spouses and children meeting specific criteria.
These countries remain top choices for professionals seeking to combine career growth with family life. For more details on specific visa and family reunification processes, visit the official immigration websites.