South African Au Pairs in Germany: Complete Document Guide

Understanding the German Au Pair Programme

The German au pair programme is designed for cultural exchange. As an au pair, you'll live with a German family, help with childcare and light housework, and attend German language classes.

Part of our Apostille for Au Pairs Abroad guide series.

Programme Requirements

• Age: 18-26 years old
• Language: Basic German (A1 level minimum)
• Education: Completed secondary education (Matric)
• Childcare: Some experience with children preferred
• Duration: 6-12 months
• Health: Good physical and mental health

What Au Pairs Receive

• Private room with host family
• All meals provided
• Monthly pocket money (minimum €280)
• Language course contribution (€50/month)
• Health insurance coverage
• One day off per week
• Paid holiday days

Essential Documents for German Au Pair Visa

The German Embassy in South Africa requires specific documents for au pair visa applications. Most documents need DIRCO apostille authentication.

Police Clearance Certificate

A SAPS police clearance certificate is mandatory for all au pair applications:

• Must be recent (within 6 months)
• Requires fingerprints at any SAPS station
• Processing takes 2-4 weeks at SAPS
• Must be apostilled through DIRCO

Since you'll be caring for children, Germany takes criminal background very seriously.

Matric Certificate

Proof of completed secondary education is required:

• National Senior Certificate (Matric)
• Or equivalent qualification
• Must be apostilled through DIRCO
• Original or certified copy accepted

Medical Certificate

A recent medical certificate showing good health:

• From a registered medical practitioner
• Confirming fitness for au pair work
• May need notarisation before apostille
• Include any relevant vaccinations

German Language Certificate

Proof of basic German language skills (A1 level):

• Certificate from Goethe-Institut
• Or other recognised language school
• Can be completed in South Africa
• Usually requires 60-80 hours of study

Motivation Letter

A personal letter explaining:

• Why you want to be an au pair
• Why you chose Germany
• Your experience with children
• Your goals for the programme

Au Pair Contract

The official contract between you and your host family:

• Signed by both parties
• Specifies duties, working hours, pocket money
• Must use official German au pair contract format
• Agency usually provides this

Additional Documents

• Birth certificate (apostilled)
• Valid passport (6+ months validity)
• Passport photos (biometric specifications)
• Proof of childcare experience (reference letters)
• CV/Resume

The DIRCO Apostille Process

Germany is a Hague Convention country, so DIRCO apostille is required for South African documents.

Processing Timeline

• SAPS police clearance: 2-4 weeks
• DIRCO apostille per document: ~1 week
• German embassy visa processing: 4-8 weeks
• Total recommended time: 10-12 weeks

Documents for DIRCO Submission

1. Original documents or certified copies
2. Completed DIRCO application forms
3. Copy of South African ID
4. Apostille fee payment
5. Return courier arrangements

German Embassy Visa Application

After document apostille, apply at the German Embassy in Pretoria or Consulate in Cape Town.

Visa Application Steps

1. Book appointment online (book early - slots fill fast)
2. Complete visa application form
3. Gather all apostilled documents
4. Attend appointment in person
5. Pay visa fee
6. Wait for processing (4-8 weeks)
7. Collect passport with visa

Visa Application Fees

The German au pair visa fee is approximately €75 (subject to change). Additional costs include:

• DIRCO apostille fees
• Translation fees (if required)
• Courier costs
• Medical examination
• German language course

Finding a Host Family

Most South African au pairs use agencies to find German host families:

Au Pair Agencies

• Handle matching with suitable families
• Provide contract templates
• Offer support during placement
• Help with emergency situations

What to Look For

• Family location (city vs countryside)
• Number and ages of children
• Working hours and duties
• Language course arrangements
• Travel opportunities

Common Challenges and Solutions

Document Delays

Prevent delays by:

• Starting document preparation 12 weeks before planned departure
• Using professional apostille services
• Keeping copies of all documents
• Tracking application progress

German Language Requirement

Meet the A1 requirement by:

• Enrolling in Goethe-Institut courses
• Using online German learning platforms
• Starting language study 3-6 months before application
• Practising with German media (films, music, podcasts)

Embassy Appointment Availability

Embassy appointments book quickly:

• Check appointment system regularly
• Book as soon as documents are ready
• Consider Cape Town Consulate if Pretoria is full
• Have all documents prepared before booking

Life as an Au Pair in Germany

Working Hours

German au pair regulations specify:

• Maximum 30 hours per week
• Maximum 6 hours per day
• Evenings and weekends included in total
• One full day off per week

Language Learning

During your stay:

• Host family contributes €50/month for language course
• You must attend German classes
• Many au pairs reach B1/B2 level
• Language skills open future opportunities

Travel Opportunities

Germany's central location allows:

• Easy travel to neighbouring countries
• Schengen visa access (no additional visas needed)
• Affordable train and bus travel
• Weekend trips to other German cities

Frequently Asked Questions