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Volunteer Service Visa (National Visa / Type D)
GermanyGermany•Europe
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Volunteer Service Visa (National Visa / Type D)

Working Holiday

At a Glance

Processing Time

4 weeks – 2 months

Estimated Cost

EUR €75

Stay Duration

Minimum 6 months, maximum 12 months

Not renewable

Renewal

Not renewable

Family

Not specified

PR Pathway

None

Sponsor

Job offer required

Work

Remote not required

Apply Now Official Information
Germany flag

Living in Germany

Cost of Living
2% cheaper than United States
Avg Salary€36,000
Quality of Life
195/200
Full Country Guide

Overview

For participation in recognized programs such as FSJ, BFD, or FÖJ.

The German Au Pair Visa (§19c(1) AufenthG + §12 BeschV) is a national Type D visa for non-EU citizens aged 18–26 to live with a German-speaking host family. Applicants need an au pair placement contract and at least A1 German. The host family must include a minor child and must not be related to the applicant.

The stay is limited to 6–12 months and cannot be renewed as an au pair. The host family pays at least €280/month pocket money, covers health insurance, and contributes €70/month toward a language course. The au pair visa does not lead to permanent residence.

This visa is ideal for young adults seeking cultural immersion in a German-speaking household who can commit to childcare and household duties for up to one year.

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Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Age 18–26 at time of application

Must not be related to the host family

Basic German language skills (A1 level minimum)

Signed au pair contract with host family

Host family must have at least one minor child

Host family must be a German-speaking household

Valid health insurance

No prior au pair stay permitted

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

VIDEX application form (completed and signed)

Two biometric passport photos

Valid passport

Signed au pair contract (including hours, pocket money, schedule)

Proof of A1 German language skills

Health insurance certificate

Host family acceptance letter

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Cultural exchange opportunity
  • Structured program support

Worth Knowing

  • Strict financial requirements for dependents
  • Limited to specific volunteer programs
  • Not participating in a recognized program
  • Incomplete compulsory education

Application Process

1

Secure a contract with a qualifying host family

2

Apply for National Visa (Type D) at the German embassy/consulate in home country

3

Attend visa interview (conducted partly in German)

4

Receive national visa

5

Enter Germany

6

Register at local Residents' Registration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt)

7

Convert visa to residence permit at local Immigration Office (Ausländerbehörde)

Application Forms

Go to application portal
VIDEX National
National Visa Application Form (Online)
Fill online

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