6.1 Au Pair Visa
Purpose: Stay with a host family in Germany for childcare, light housework, and language acquisition, typically 6–12 months.
Requirements according to the Embassy in Accra:
- Applicant’s age: between 18 and 26 years old.
- Au pair stay: at least 6 months, no more than 12 months.
- No close family relationship with the host family.
- The host family generally speaks German as their everyday language; at least one German or EU citizen must be part of the household.
- Proof of basic German language skills (A1) via a recognized certificate (e.g., Goethe-Institut), unless an exception applies.
Documents (excerpt): - Au pair contract based on the standard German template (signed by both parties).
- Host family questionnaire.
- The applicant’s school and, if applicable, vocational training records.
- Resume, letter of motivation.
- A1 language certificate.
Appointment scheduling: Via the separate “Au-pair/Voluntary Service” category in the appointment scheduling system (only for applicants permanently residing in Ghana, Liberia, or Sierra Leone).
6.2 Voluntary Service (e.g., FSJ/BFD/other programs)
The Embassy in Accra schedules separate appointments for volunteers; the specific programs (FSJ, BFD, FÖJ, European Voluntary Service, etc.) follow general rules similar to those in other countries. The main requirements are: a signed volunteer service contract, details about the sponsoring organization and place of assignment, proof of funding, and, if applicable, language proficiency certificates.