Au Pair in Germany: FAQs
Au Pair in Germany
Care for children, learn German, and immerse yourself in German culture. Room and board covered by your host family!
What level of English and German do I need to participate in the program?
We recommend at least an Intermediate level in the relevant language(s) to join the program.
Do I need a university degree?
The main requirement for enrolling in the program is completed secondary education (high school). Higher education is an advantage, but it’s not the main criterion.
How do I pay for the program?
After you sign the agreement at IEC, you’ll pay the registration fee of $150 within 7 calendar days.
What counts as experience working with children?
Work as a teacher, nanny, camp counselor, event staff, and other similar roles — any position where a prospective participant worked directly with children.
How does finding and placement with a host family work?
Once you’ve completed all required forms and submitted the necessary documents, participants in the Au Pair in Germany program are added to lists that families can view. When a family selects an au pair from those lists, they schedule an interview to discuss the work details.
Can an Au Pair ‘decline’ a host family after speaking with them?
Yes, program participants can do this, but only a limited number of times. Before doing so, an Au Pair should inform their IEC office about the situation and consult with them on whether to decline the host family.
Can I choose the host family or the city where I’d like to work?
Au Pairs can’t choose their host family or city.
How many days off will I have?
As an Au Pair, you’ll get 1-2 days off per week and 4 weeks of paid vacation per year.
What duties will an Au Pair have?
It depends on the host family, but in general Au Pairs play with the children and take them on walks. They may help with homework, drive the kids to school and pick them up, and can cook for the children and help with household chores. The schedule and duties are discussed and agreed on with the host family.
What kind of children will the Au Pair work with?
The ages of the children usually match the Au Pair’s experience.
Can I change my host family?
If for some reason an Au Pair can’t get along with their host family, they should contact the program sponsor first for advice. The sponsor will help sort things out and, if necessary, try to find a new host family. Don’t leave the family abruptly without telling anyone about the situation!
Can I join the program if I already have a host family in Germany?
This option is available under certain conditions. You can get more details about this procedure from an IEC representative.
