Country guide · 1,510 families hosting
Au pair in Germany.
Clear rules, paid language course. Here is what the exchange typically looks like there — money, hours, paperwork and pace of life.
- Typical pocket money
- €70–€95 / week
- Hours
- Max 30 hours / week
- Time off
- 1.5 days off weekly
- Typical stay
- 6–12 months
- Language
- German
The visa, in plain language
Germany has one of the clearest au pair frameworks in Europe. EU citizens register at the town hall; non-EU applicants need a signed contract, basic German (usually A1) and a visa from the German embassy before travelling.
- 01
Sign the official au pair contract with your family
- 02
Show basic German language ability (typically A1 certificate)
- 03
Apply for the au pair visa at the German embassy or consulate
- 04
Register your address at the Bürgeramt within two weeks of arrival
Typical current practice, January 2026 — not legal advice. Always check the country's official immigration guidance before applying.
What makes Germany different
- Detailed official rules protect both sides of the match
- Families usually contribute €50–€100 a month to a language course
- Excellent rail network for weekend travel
- Central base for exploring the rest of Europe
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