Requirements for Hosting an Au Pair in Germany 2026
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Requirements for Hosting an Au Pair in Germany 2026

Auost Team 17 Jun 2026 38 likes

A host family in Germany must welcome the au pair as a temporary family member, provide a suitable private room and free meals, and pay pocket money, language-course support, necessary course travel, and insurance. At least one minor child must live in the household. Childcare and cultural exchange must remain central; an au pair cannot replace a full-time nanny, cleaner, or care worker.

Host-family checklist

  • At least one child under 18 lives in the household.

  • A suitable private room is available in the family home.

  • The au pair can participate in family life while retaining privacy.

  • The family meets the language and nationality-related programme rules.

  • The family can reliably cover all ongoing costs.

  • Duties are limited to childcare and light family-related housework.

  • The schedule stays within six hours per day and 30 hours per week.

  • Time is available for rest, holidays, and a German course.

  • Expectations and house rules are discussed transparently before matching.

The room should be furnished, heated, suitable for living, and protected from uninvited entry. A shared permanent sleeping space or walk-through room does not provide adequate privacy. Free meals should be offered as they are to other family members; allergies, dietary choices, and religious needs should be discussed early.

Appropriate tasks include preparing children for school, drop-off and pick-up, playing, reading, simple meals for the children, and light child-related laundry or tidying. Heavy cleaning, round-the-clock sole responsibility, care of dependent adults, or management of the entire household are not appropriate.

Compatibility matters beyond legal eligibility. Families should compare experience with different age groups, multiple children, driving, pets, diet, religion, location, working hours, communication style, start date, and length of stay.

Frequently asked questions

  • Can a single parent host an au pair? Yes, if all other requirements and genuine family integration are met.
  • Does the au pair need a private bathroom? Usually not, but a suitable private bedroom is essential.
  • May an au pair be hired mainly to clean? No. Childcare and cultural exchange must remain central.
  • What if the family mainly speaks English at home? German programme language requirements may apply; verify the individual situation with the responsible authority.

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