Au Pair Visa
Young people living with a German host family doing childcare in exchange for board.
The Au Pair Visa is a German visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€75) and processing time (~6-10 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Au Pair Visa is for
Young people living with a German host family doing childcare in exchange for board.
No direct path; switch to study or work afterwards.
Au Pair Visa - eligibility criteria
- Aged 18-26
- Basic German language skills (A1)
- Host family contract/placement
- Not a relative of the host family
- Health insurance coverage
Au Pair Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Au Pair Visa (Germany) is ~€75, with an indicative processing time of ~6-10 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Make it in Germany / BAMF.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a German consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | Up to 12 months (non-renewable) |
| Work rights | Au pair duties (up to 30 hrs/week) with pocket money |
| Study rights | Language course alongside duties |
| Government fee | ~€75 |
| Processing time | ~6-10 weeks |
| Route to PR | No direct path; switch to study or work afterwards. |
Pathway & next steps
No direct path; switch to study or work afterwards.
Many applicants also compare Working Holiday · Working Holiday Visa, Volunteer · Voluntary Service Visa (Freiwilligendienst), Language · Language Course Visa (Sprachkursvisum). Run a free VisaChief check to see which German route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Au Pair Visa pitfalls we fix
Au Pair Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Au Pair Visa cost?
The Au Pair Visa government fee is ~€75. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Make it in Germany / BAMF before applying.
How long does the Au Pair Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~6-10 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Au Pair Visa lead to permanent residence?
No direct path; switch to study or work afterwards.
Can I work on the Au Pair Visa?
Work rights: Au pair duties (up to 30 hrs/week) with pocket money.
Who can apply for the Au Pair Visa?
Young people living with a German host family doing childcare in exchange for board.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Germany government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Make it in Germany / BAMF - official Germany immigration authority