Au-Pair in Germany

Germany at a glance

Official au pair programme

For au pairs

Age
18–26 years
Language level A1
Pocket money
€280 per month
minimum · guideline
Working hours
max. 30 h/week · max. 6 h/day
1.5 days off/week · 20 days of holiday per 12 months
Length of stay
6–12 months

For host families

Language course
Optional
Family pays at least €70 per month
Insurance
Host family pays
Contract
Official template, mandatory
Visa
EU/EEA: nothing needed
Non-EU: visa before entry
See au pairs for GermanySee families in Germany

We compiled this information to the best of our knowledge from the official sources listed below, each with the date we checked it. Laws and rates change, and an error can never be ruled out entirely — we do not re-check the sources daily. Please do not rely on this alone: verify with the competent authority before you decide. This is not legal advice.

Sources: Bundesagentur für Arbeit, Merkblatt Au-pair · Bundesagentur für Arbeit, Mustervertrag · § 12 BeschV · checked 2026-09-11

Germany is the world's most popular au-pair destination. Every year, thousands of young people from around the globe come to Germany to live with a host family, learn the language, and experience the culture firsthand. The German au-pair program is well-regulated and offers both au-pairs and host families a high level of security.

Requirements for Au-Pairs in Germany

To work as an au-pair in Germany, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Age: Between 18 and 26 years old at the time of application
  • Language skills: Basic knowledge of German (at least A1 level, A2 recommended)
  • Childcare experience: Proven experience caring for children
  • Education: Completed secondary education
  • Health: Good health (medical certificate required)
  • Background check: Clean criminal record
  • Marital status: No children of your own

Visa and Residence Permit

EU citizens do not need a visa. They can work as an au-pair in Germany directly. Non-EU citizens need a special au-pair visa, which must be applied for at the German embassy or consulate in their home country.

Key visa information:

  • The application must be submitted before entering Germany
  • Processing time: 4-12 weeks (apply early!)
  • Required documents: Passport, invitation letter from host family, au-pair contract, language certificate, health insurance
  • The visa is valid only for au-pair work and does not allow other employment

Pocket Money and Benefits

Au-pair pocket money in Germany is regulated by law:

  • Pocket money: At least EUR 280 per month (net)
  • Accommodation: Private room with the host family (free of charge)
  • Meals: Full board provided by the host family
  • Language course: Host family contributes at least EUR 70/month toward German classes (or a one-time EUR 840), plus travel costs
  • Vacation: At least 4 weeks of paid vacation during a 12-month stay
  • Insurance: Host family must arrange health, accident, and liability insurance

Working Hours and Duties

Working hours are clearly regulated:

  • Maximum 30 hours per week (6 hours per day, 5 days a week)
  • Duties: Childcare, light household tasks related to the children
  • At least 1.5 days off per week (including at least 1 Sunday per month)
  • At least 4 free evenings per week

Duration of Stay

An au-pair stay in Germany typically lasts:

  • Minimum 6 months
  • Maximum 12 months
  • Extension beyond 12 months is not possible

Language Course and Cultural Exchange

Attending a German language course is an essential part of the program. Many host families actively support their au-pair in learning the language. Germany also offers numerous cultural opportunities: museums, festivals, historic cities, and a central location in Europe for traveling to neighboring countries.

Tips for a Successful Stay

  • Start learning German early, ideally before you depart
  • Clarify expectations with your host family before arrival (duties, schedule, house rules)
  • Join local au-pair groups to make friends
  • Take advantage of Germany's central location for weekend trips

Ready to start your au-pair adventure in Germany? Create your profile on AuPairMatch now and find your perfect host family.