Au pair visa requirements Europe 2026 checklist: step-by-step for Germany, France, Spain, and Italy

If you're planning to become an au pair in Europe in 2026 or 2027, this au pair visa requirements Europe 2026 checklist will help you organise every step. Requirements vary by country (Germany, France, Spain, and Italy), but all demand documents like a signed contract, health insurance, proof of accommodation, and specific consular procedures. Use this list in Foco to ensure nothing is missed: tasks are prioritised and actionable, such as booking appointments or translating documents.

In Foco, create a workspace called 'Au Pair Visa' and assign a colour to distinguish it from other projects. Use Panorama mode to view all pending tasks (visa, moving, courses) and Foco mode to concentrate solely on visa procedures. Group tasks by due or start date, and use tags like '#Germany' or '#Documents' to filter. If you use Ráfaga, Foco will automatically separate tasks like 'Book consulate appointment' or 'Translate criminal record certificate'.

Key requirements by country in 2026

Germany requires a signed contract, German health insurance, and proof of accommodation. France mandates a minimum French level (A2) and a language course during your stay. In Spain, the contract must be approved by the Ministry of Labour, while Italy requires private health insurance with EU coverage. Consular processing times vary: Germany and France typically take 4-6 weeks, whereas Spain and Italy may extend to 3 months during peak seasons (September-December).

• Check the specific visa requirements for your chosen country on the official consulate website (Germany, France, Spain, or Italy)
• Download and complete the visa application form from the relevant consulate
• Book an appointment at the consulate or visa centre (VFS Global or similar) at least 2 months in advance
• Prepare a passport valid for at least 1 year with blank pages (photocopy the data page)
• Obtain 2 recent passport-sized photos with a white background, no glasses or accessories
• Write a motivation letter in the host country’s language (explain why you want to be an au pair and your future plans)
• Sign the au pair contract with the host family (use the official template for the country and attach a copy of the family’s ID/passport)
• Purchase private health insurance with EU coverage (for Italy and Spain) or German health insurance (for Germany, e.g., TK or AOK)
• Obtain an apostilled criminal record certificate, translated into the host country’s language (issued within the last 3 months)
• Undergo a medical examination at a centre authorised by the consulate and obtain a health certificate
• Translate all non-official language documents into the host country’s language (contract, criminal record, medical certificate)
• Prepare proof of accommodation (letter from the host family with address and living conditions, or a rental contract)
• Provide proof of financial means (bank statement with at least 3 months of transactions, or a letter from the host family guaranteeing expenses)
• Pay the visa application fee (varies by country: Germany €75, France €99, Spain €80, Italy €50)
• Attend the consulate appointment with all original documents and copies (bring a printed checklist)
• Submit additional documents if requested by the consulate (may include further language proficiency proof or financial evidence)
• Collect your passport with the visa or wait for approval notification (processing times vary by country and season)
• Register at the local foreigner’s office within 7 days of arrival (required in Germany and Spain)
• Enrol in a language course in the host country (mandatory in France, recommended elsewhere)