Germany Visitor Visa: Convert to Au Pair Visa

"In most cases, you cannot convert a Germany visitor visa into an au pair visa while you are already in Germany. German immigration law generally requires that you apply for an au pair visa (a long-term national visa, Type D) from your home country before entering Germany.

However, there are a few exceptions and important details to understand — let’s go through them clearly:

Converting a Visitor Visa to an Au Pair Visa in Germany

1. General rule: Conversion is not allowed

A Schengen visitor visa (Type C) is meant only for short stays — up to 90 days within 180 days.

It cannot be changed into a long-term residence permit such as an au pair visa once you are in Germany.

You must return to your home country and apply for an au pair visa at the German Embassy or Consulate there.

2. Why the law requires applying from your home country

The German residence law (Section 5, Residence Act) states that long-term visas, such as for work, study, or au pair programs, must be applied for before entering the country.

This ensures:

Proper background and document checks

Verification of host family’s eligibility

Proof of insurance, language skills, and agreement terms

3. Exceptions (rare cases)

You may only apply to change your visa inside Germany if:

You are a citizen of a country with visa-free access to the Schengen Area (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia, Japan).

You entered without a visa and meet all au pair visa requirements.

You have strong humanitarian or family reasons, approved by the Ausländerbehörde (local immigration office).

If you entered on a visitor visa from a visa-required country like India, Pakistan, the Philippines, or Nigeria, you must leave Germany and apply for the au pair visa from your home country.

4. Requirements for a German au pair visa

When you apply from your country, you’ll need to show:

Valid passport

Signed au pair contract with a German host family

Proof of basic German language skills (A1 level)

Health and accident insurance covering your stay

Proof of accommodation and meals provided by the host family

Motivation letter and possibly an interview

5. Processing time

Application at the German Embassy: 6–12 weeks on average.

After approval, you’ll receive a national visa (Type D) to enter Germany and register your residence permit once you arrive."