Moving abroad is already challenging. Moving with your children? Even more so.
Many parents worry:
“Do my kids need degrees to move with me?”
“Will they face visa problems?”
“Is it expensive?”
The good news: not all European countries require your children to have a degree to join you.
In 2026, several countries offer family-friendly visas and residency pathways where your children can come along, study, and even work without having a formal university degree.
Let’s break it down country by country.
Why Europe is Family-Friendly (For the Right Countries)
Europe is attractive for families because it offers:
✅ Stable education systems – Free or affordable schooling
✅ Healthcare access – Public healthcare for residents
✅ Safety – Low crime rates in many regions
✅ Residency pathways – Family visas for spouses and children
But—and this is important—not every European country is family-friendly for non-EU nationals. Some require strict qualifications, including degrees. Others focus on income requirements, language, or age limits.
That’s why knowing the right countries is crucial.
1. Germany – Children Can Join Without a Degree
Germany is one of the most family-oriented countries for migrants.
Key Facts:
• Family reunification visa allows children under 18 to join a parent living in Germany
• No degree required for children
• Children can attend public schools for free
• Children may also learn German at subsidized language programs
Additional Benefits:
• Health insurance coverage for the whole family
• Children can work part-time after age 15
• Pathway to long-term residency for the whole family
Tip: Parents must prove stable income to support their children, but formal education for the kids is not mandatory.
2. Netherlands – Flexible Family Reunification Rules
The Netherlands has clear pathways for family moves.
Key Facts:
• Children of non-EU parents can join if under 18
• No degree required for children
• Children can attend Dutch schools or international schools
• Parents need to demonstrate sufficient income and accommodation
Why It Works Well:
• English is widely spoken in schools
• Family visa holders can eventually work in the Netherlands
• Children can integrate into society and later pursue higher education
3. France – Education First, No Degree Needed
France is another excellent option for families.
Key Facts:
• Family visa (“Regroupement familial”) allows children to move with parents
• Children do not need degrees
• Free education through public schools
• Parents need to show stable residence and income
Benefits:
• Access to public healthcare
• Children can participate in extracurricular and vocational programs
• Multicultural environment makes integration easier
Pro Tip: Start the visa process early, as France requires documentation proving accommodation and sufficient resources.
4. Spain – Warm Climate and Family-Friendly Policies
Spain is ideal for families looking for both opportunity and lifestyle.
Key Facts:
• Children under 18 can join non-EU parents under family visa schemes
• No educational qualification required
• Free schooling and optional international schools
• Parent must show income and suitable housing
Why Parents Love Spain:
• Health care is accessible for children
• Children can integrate into local culture
• Later, family members can apply for long-term residency or citizenship
5. Portugal – Smooth Pathways for Children
Portugal has become increasingly popular for family migration.
Key Facts:
• Family reunification visas are available for children of residents
• Children do not need any degree
• Free access to public schools
• Parent must demonstrate stable income and residence
Bonus:
• English-speaking communities for easier adaptation
• Safe neighborhoods
• Relatively lower cost of living compared to other Western European countries
6. Belgium – Multilingual Education for Children
Belgium is perfect for families seeking multilingual education.
Key Facts:
• Children can join parents under family visa programs
• No degree required
• Public schools teach Dutch, French, and English in some regions
• Parent must prove income and housing
Why It Works Well:
• Children can adapt to different languages early
• Integration into the local workforce later is easier
• Family visa holders have access to healthcare and benefits
Tips for a Smooth Family Move to Europe
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Assuming children need a degree to move
❌ Ignoring income requirements
❌ Not arranging housing before applying
❌ Relying solely on agents for visas
❌ Not checking school admission deadlines
Why This Matters for Africans in 2026
Many African families assume their children will face barriers due to education or age.
The truth is:
Most European family visas focus on parental eligibility, not the child’s degree.
That means:
• Children can move young
• Access education
• Integrate naturally
• Eventually work or study in the host country
For families, this removes one major obstacle to migration.
Final Thoughts from Owafk
Moving your family abroad doesn’t have to be complicated.
Focus on countries that prioritize family reunification:
• Germany
• Netherlands
• France
• Spain
• Portugal
• Belgium
Your children do not need degrees.
What matters is legal residence, income, and proper documentation.
Europe is opening doors in 2026—make sure your family is ready to walk through them.
