top of page

Au Pair Visa: Which health insurance is suitable for au pairs?


For many young people and their host families, coming to Germany as an au pair marks the beginning of a formative chapter in their lives. It's an exchange characterized by cultural curiosity and mutual support. But before the first suitcase is packed or the children's room is prepared, bureaucratic arrangements take center stage . In particular, health insurance is not a mere detail, but a fundamental requirement for obtaining a visa and for subsequent residency. An accident during sports or an unexpected illness can quickly become a significant financial burden for everyone involved without adequate coverage. As a law firm specializing in visa law, we repeatedly see that choosing the wrong insurance leads to considerable delays in the visa process.


Legal framework and insurance obligation

In Germany, there is a strict insurance requirement, which also applies to short-term stays and educational migration purposes. This is in accordance with the guidelines of the Federal Employment Agency and the requirements of the The immigration authorities require that each au pair has comprehensive health insurance that meets the requirements of Section 2 Paragraph 3 of the German Residence Act (AufenthG ). Crucially, the insurance coverage must not only provide emergency care but also largely reflect the benefits offered by statutory health insurance. For a successful outcome For skilled worker immigration – even though the au pair arrangement is a special case – complete coverage is essential.

Especially important for The cost arrangement between employers and host families is as follows: In Germany, it is legally stipulated that the host family must fully cover the au pair's health, accident, and liability insurance premiums . These costs may not be deducted from the au pair's pocket money. We advise everyone Companies or households employing an au pair should explicitly state this obligation in the au pair contract to ensure legal certainty vis-à-vis the to create an immigration office . A valid A passport alone is not sufficient; without proof of insurance, no insurance will be issued. Residence permit granted.


Differences between EU citizens and third-country nationals

For university-educated young people from other EU countries , access initially seems easier, as they often possess the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) . However, caution is advised: the EHIC only covers medically necessary treatments during temporary stays and often does not meet the standards required by German authorities for long-term stays of up to one year. We therefore strongly recommend that even EU citizens take out private supplementary insurance specifically tailored to the needs of au pairs.

For third-country nationals, the situation is even clearer. Private health insurance is mandatory to obtain a visa . Consulates carefully check whether the coverage amount is sufficient and whether repatriation costs are covered in the event of death or serious illness. Standard tourist travel health insurance is generally not adequate. The insurance policy must recognize the specific "au pair" status, as this can also entail liability risks related to childcare.


The role of the host family and the employer

For expats living in Germany who are looking for an au pair to help them, the administrative process is often a hurdle. It must be ensured that the insurance is in place from the day of entry – that is, as soon as they cross the border. Passport – is valid. Many specialized providers offer solutions that can be completed directly online and immediately issue the necessary certificates for the embassy. We often emphasize that good insurance is not just a bothersome obligation, but a protective tool for the entire relationship between the host family and the au pair . Comprehensive insurance also protects the host family from liability claims if the au pair causes damage during their work.


Necessary services included in the insurance package

A legally sound insurance package for au pairs should cover more than just medical treatment. Skilled workers and young professionals who use this path as an entry point into the German job market benefit from packages that include the following components:


  • A private liability insurance policy that explicitly covers damages incurred during the au pair activity.

  • An accident insurance policy that protects against permanent impairment.

  • Insurance coverage in case of a medically necessary repatriation to the home country.


The A residence permit is generally only granted for the duration of the proven insurance coverage. Should the stay be extended, the insurance must also be extended in a timely manner , otherwise the legal status is at risk. This applies particularly if further insurance coverage is subsequently required. Skilled worker immigration or the pursuit of a degree is desired.


Conclusion of the law firm

Choosing the right health insurance is not an optional extra for au pairs and their host families, but a legal requirement. It is essential both for obtaining a visa from the embassy and for subsequent health insurance coverage. Residence permit through the For immigration authorities , comprehensive and recognized insurance coverage is essential. We strongly recommend using specialized providers who issue certificates that are accepted without question by all German authorities. This is the only way to avoid unnecessary stress and legal pitfalls, allowing you to focus on the cultural exchange.


VISAGUARD recommendation:

Do you need insurance that is recognized by the authorities? Our law firm uses Feather insurance and has had consistently positive experiences with them. If you purchase your insurance through this link with Feather's insurance brokers, you will be supporting our law firm blog. Use the code “VISAG-15” to receive additional cashback when you purchase insurance through Feather.


You might also be interested in:

bottom of page