Coming to Germany as an Au-Pair

The Au-Pair programme is one of the most accessible ways for young people to live and work in Germany legally. But language preparation is essential — and starting early gives you a major advantage.

What is an Au-Pair?

An Au-Pair lives with a German host family, helps with childcare and light household tasks, and in return receives accommodation, meals, pocket money, and time to attend German language classes. It is a cultural exchange programme, not employment.

Who can apply?

Age 18 to 26 (you must apply before your 27th birthday)
No criminal record
Basic German (A1) — required for the visa
Interest in childcare and cultural exchange

What German level do you need?

By law, you need basic German at A1 level, and the embassy checks it when you apply for the visa. Having A2 makes you a much stronger candidate for host families and helps you settle in faster.

You will also be required to attend German language classes during your stay — usually at a local Volkshochschule (VHS). Many Au-Pairs progress from A1 to B1 during their stay.

How to find a host family

Au-Pair agencies (AuPairWorld, Cultural Care, IJAB)
Direct applications through family networks
German embassy Au-Pair visa programme

How long does A1/A2 take to prepare?

A1 takes 4 to 8 weeks of daily practice. A2 takes an additional 6 to 10 weeks. Starting your German now — before you even find a host family — puts you ahead of most applicants.

Practise for this step

Practise A1 German for your au pair year Free · no account Start →

More practice

Keep reading

Grammar guides

Articles (der/die/das) Cases (Nominativ–Genitiv) Word Order sein & haben nicht or kein

Free A1 grammar lessons

der, die, das haben & sein Personal pronouns Present tense Word order Akkusativ Dativ Plural nouns Negation Modal verbs

Sources

Last checked: November 2026

This article is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so please confirm your case with the German embassy or the responsible authority.