Choosing and getting to know an au pair
How well does an au pair speak German?
Short answer
The legal requirement for an au pair visa is German language skills of at least A1 level. That is the first language stage, so do not expect fluent German at the start. Some of our au pairs already have A2, B1 or even B2 skills. You will find the respective language level directly in the au pair profile.
Last updated: 12.08.2026
Learning German is part of the au pair year
Au pairs come to Germany to get to know the German language and culture. The A1 certificate is therefore not the end of language learning, but rather the beginning.
After their arrival, the au pairs attend a German course, usually several times a week. How quickly language skills develop varies a great deal. Some au pairs speak noticeably more confident German after just a few months, others need a little more time.
It is particularly important that German is also spoken in everyday family life. Especially in the first weeks, a mix of German and English can be helpful: for example, explain something first in English and then repeat the sentence in German. This way the au pair understands what is meant and at the same time learns the corresponding German words and sentences.
You can already form a good impression when getting to know each other. Deliberately hold parts of your video calls in German and see how well communication works. Some au pairs have gone on learning beyond the required A1 level or completed individual modules at A2, B1 or B2 level. You will find this information in the respective au pair profile.
Our tip: do not expect perfect German on the first day. An au pair year is also a language-learning year, and daily contact with your family is an important part of that.