“The system causes enormous amounts of stress and pressure on families,” the professor said.
“Children are separated from parents, families have to sacrifice plans for buying a home and some have to change their plans completely and move abroad.”
Couples also face extra costs for visa applications and healthcare surcharges, with some being pushed into debt.
These extra costs can amount to £12,000 for someone getting indefinite leave to remain over five years.
Couples who live outside of the UK can also be prevented from returning to it.
The Brexit Couples report was presented to ministers in Parliament this week, calling for changes to the system, including lowering the minimum income requirement (MIR) for British partners and a reduction in visa costs.
Last year, the Migration Advisory Committee, also recommended for the MIR to be lowered.