Daily life · For host families
Au pair room requirements: what host families must provide
The private room is part of the au pair's package. What the rules require, what's expected, and the extras that make a difference.
4 min read · Updated September 2026
The essentials
Some countries, such as Germany and the USA, write minimum standards into their programme rules and may ask about the room during the visa process.
- A private bedroom used only by the au pair
- A window with natural light, and heating
- A proper bed, wardrobe or storage, desk or table and chair
- A door that closes — ideally lockable
- Access to a bathroom, laundry and the kitchen
Expected by most au pairs
Reliable Wi-Fi, a mirror, bedding and towels, and somewhere to keep valuables. These cost little and make the room feel like theirs.
Show it on your profile
Photos of the room are one of the first things au pairs look for. A clear photo and a sentence about privacy (own floor, own bathroom, separate entrance) noticeably increases replies.
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