Costs and funding
Mobile phone and Deutschlandticket – who covers the costs?
Short answer
The host family should make sure the au pair is reachable in Germany – for example with a simple phone and a prepaid SIM, or a German SIM card for their own phone. A Deutschlandticket is not a fundamental requirement. Whether it makes sense depends on how the au pair gets to the language course and which public transport is available locally.
Last updated: 12.08.2026
Being reachable in Germany
If your au pair is out and about with your children, for example at the playground, on a walk, or on the way to nursery, they should be able to reach you at any time – and the other way round.
For this, you could provide an older phone and get an inexpensive prepaid card. If the au pair already has their own smartphone with dual SIM or eSIM, a German SIM card can simply be added.
It is important to agree beforehand what the German SIM may be used for. Calls or video calls with family and friends back home should go via WiFi or internet-based services, so that no unnecessary international charges arise.
Deutschlandticket
You are not fundamentally required to provide your au pair with a Deutschlandticket. The individual situation is what matters.
If the au pair attends an in-person language course and needs bus or train to get there, the necessary mobility to the language course must be ensured. If they can cycle, get a lift with you, or attend an online language course instead, a Deutschlandticket may be unnecessary.
Especially in cities, however, many host families choose to get a Deutschlandticket. It is straightforward and also allows the au pair to visit friends, explore a city, or take part in cultural and social activities in their free time.
Our tip: discuss together, before arrival, how your au pair will get around and which solution makes the most sense for where you live.