Germany continues to open its labor market to international workers, and one of the most in-demand roles for immigrants in 2025 is nanny jobs. With the country’s growing number of working parents, coupled with an aging population that requires family support, nannies are becoming an essential part of German households.
What makes nanny jobs in Germany highly attractive is the fact that they often come with visa sponsorship, free housing, and competitive salaries that allow foreign workers to live comfortably.
For immigrants who may not have advanced degrees or formal qualifications, nanny positions are an excellent entry point into Germany’s job market. Families across Germany value professional childcare, and they are willing to pay well to ensure their children’s safety and development.
For many international applicants, this creates an opportunity not only to secure reliable employment but also to live legally in Germany through employer-sponsored visas.
In 2025, demand is expected to increase further, with many families offering hourly wages ranging from €12 to €20, depending on the city and experience level. When calculated on a monthly basis, this translates to salaries of around €1,800 to €2,800, not including free accommodation that is often part of the job package.
Many employers understand that international nannies may require relocation support. This is why they provide free housing within or close to the household, sometimes with additional perks such as free meals and transportation allowances.
For immigrants, this significantly reduces the cost of living, since rent in cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt can reach €800 to €1,200 per month. In essence, when accommodation and food are covered, most of the salary becomes personal savings.
Germany also offers legal pathways for foreigners interested in nanny roles. The visa sponsorship process is straightforward if an employer is ready to provide a job contract.
This system allows immigrants to apply from their home countries and enter Germany with the right documentation, ensuring that their stay is legal and protected.
With Germany’s strong labor laws, workers are assured of fair treatment, timely salary payments, and regulated working hours, making nanny jobs one of the safest employment opportunities for foreign workers.
Entry-level Skills and Experience Required
Unlike professional healthcare or engineering jobs, nanny jobs in Germany do not require advanced qualifications. Most families hiring immigrants focus more on personal qualities, reliability, and basic childcare knowledge rather than formal certifications.
However, the stronger your skills, the better your chances of securing high-paying offers with benefits like visa sponsorship and free housing.
Many employers look for nannies with experience in babysitting, early childhood care, or teaching assistance. Even informal experience, such as taking care of younger siblings or working as a helper in a daycare center, is often considered valuable.
For example, a candidate with two years of part-time babysitting experience in their home country can still secure a nanny job in Germany earning €1,500 to €2,200 per month, especially if accommodation is included.
Language Skills
While fluency in German is not always mandatory, having basic knowledge of the language can make a big difference. Many families prefer nannies who can communicate with their children in English or German.
In fact, some parents intentionally hire English-speaking nannies to help their children improve in the language.
However, being able to handle everyday German phrases, such as asking for directions, shopping, or handling emergencies, increases employability. Basic German language training is often enough to secure a visa and improve job opportunities.
Certifications and Training
Although not mandatory, certifications in childcare, first aid, or early childhood development are valuable. For instance, a candidate with a childcare certification can demand higher pay, sometimes up to €20 per hour in major cities.
First aid certification is especially appreciated by families, as it ensures the nanny can handle emergencies like falls, burns, or allergic reactions. Many training courses can be completed online before applying for the job, giving immigrants an advantage in the hiring process.
Personal Qualities
Employers value qualities such as patience, trustworthiness, and adaptability. Since nannies often live within the household, being respectful of family rules and traditions is very important.
Families also seek individuals who can multitask, as nanny duties sometimes include light housekeeping or preparing children’s meals. For immigrants, showcasing these qualities during the hiring process often leads to long-term job stability and possible contract renewals.
In short, nanny jobs in Germany do not require advanced academic qualifications. What matters most is childcare experience, a willingness to learn, and the ability to adapt to new cultural environments.
With these qualities, even entry-level immigrants can secure stable jobs with salaries between €1,500 and €2,800 per month, free housing, and visa sponsorship.
Regions with the Highest Payment Structures
Nanny salaries in Germany vary depending on the region, with urban centers generally offering higher wages than rural areas. The difference in pay is often influenced by the cost of living, demand for childcare, and the household’s financial capacity. For immigrants, choosing the right region can significantly impact earnings and lifestyle.
Berlin
As Germany’s capital, Berlin has one of the highest demands for nannies. With a large population of international families and working professionals, wages for nannies in Berlin range from €14 to €18 per hour.
On a monthly basis, this amounts to around €2,000 to €2,500. Families in Berlin often include free housing, particularly for live-in nannies, which makes the job highly rewarding. The city also provides a multicultural environment, making it easier for immigrants to adapt.
Munich
Munich is one of the wealthiest cities in Germany, and this is reflected in nanny salaries. Families in Munich are willing to pay between €16 and €20 per hour, leading to monthly incomes of €2,200 to €2,800.
However, Munich also has one of the highest costs of living, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment averaging €1,200. This makes jobs that include free housing especially attractive for foreign workers.
Frankfurt
As Germany’s financial hub, Frankfurt has a high concentration of wealthy families and expatriates. Salaries for nannies here average €15 to €19 per hour, equating to monthly earnings of €2,100 to €2,600.
Many families in Frankfurt prefer English-speaking nannies due to their international business backgrounds, which creates additional opportunities for immigrants fluent in English.
Hamburg
Hamburg is another city with strong demand for nannies, particularly among families working in trade and commerce. Salaries range from €13 to €17 per hour, or about €1,900 to €2,400 per month.
The cost of living is lower compared to Munich, making Hamburg an attractive choice for foreign workers who wish to save a larger portion of their salaries.
Rural Areas
In rural regions, salaries for nannies are generally lower, averaging €10 to €13 per hour. However, rural families almost always include free housing, free meals, and sometimes even transportation.
For immigrants who prefer quieter lifestyles and lower expenses, rural nanny jobs are a practical choice, though savings potential may be slightly lower than in major cities.
Overall, the highest-paying nanny jobs are concentrated in urban centers like Munich, Berlin, and Frankfurt. However, with free housing included, even positions in rural areas provide stable income and secure visa sponsorship for foreign workers.
Salary Expectations for Nannies
Nanny jobs in Germany are among the few employment opportunities for immigrants that combine fair salaries, free housing, and legal visa sponsorship. In 2025, salaries remain competitive, and earnings vary based on location, experience, and responsibilities.
The average hourly wage for nannies in Germany is between €12 and €18, though experienced candidates in wealthier regions can earn up to €20 per hour. Working full-time at 40 hours per week translates to monthly salaries between €1,800 and €2,800.
For live-in nannies, the inclusion of free housing and meals increases the overall value of the job. When these benefits are factored in, the total package can easily exceed €3,000 in financial value each month.
Entry-level Salary
Immigrants with no formal training but basic childcare experience typically earn between €1,500 and €2,000 per month. Since these jobs often include accommodation, the net savings for the worker remain substantial.
Mid-level Salary
Nannies with two to three years of childcare experience, basic German language skills, or certifications in first aid can expect salaries ranging from €2,000 to €2,500 per month. Many mid-level positions also include paid vacation and health insurance contributions.
High-level Salary
Experienced nannies, particularly those with specialized training in early childhood education or bilingual skills, can earn up to €2,800 per month. In wealthier cities like Munich and Frankfurt, families may even offer more, especially if the nanny is responsible for multiple children or teaching English as part of the job.
In addition to base pay, some families offer bonuses, holiday allowances, and even transportation stipends. This makes nanny jobs in Germany not just financially rewarding but also stable and secure for immigrants planning long-term stays.
Companies Hiring Nannies in Germany
As the demand for childcare continues to grow in Germany, many families and professional agencies are actively searching for skilled and reliable nannies.
For immigrants, working with well-established companies and agencies can be one of the easiest pathways to secure legal nanny jobs with visa sponsorship. These organizations not only connect nannies to families but also guide them through contract agreements, relocation support, and visa documentation.
Private Households
The majority of nanny jobs in Germany are offered directly by private families. Wealthy households in Munich, Berlin, Frankfurt, and Hamburg often prefer live-in nannies who can provide full-time support.
These families usually offer salaries between €2,000 and €2,800 per month, free housing, and sometimes additional perks like free meals, paid vacation, and contributions to health insurance.
Immigrants hired directly by families typically get personal contracts, and many of them provide visa sponsorship if the nanny is applying from abroad.
Childcare Agencies
Agencies play a crucial role in connecting international workers with German families. Reputable nanny agencies such as AuPair World, Nanny Agency Germany, and International Nannies specialize in recruiting foreign workers. These agencies usually ensure that job contracts comply with German labor laws and that workers receive fair treatment.
Working through an agency also increases the chances of securing free housing, as most agencies screen families to ensure they provide proper accommodation for live-in nannies. Salaries through agencies usually range from €1,800 to €2,400 per month.
Daycare and Early Childhood Centers
Apart from private households, daycare centers and kindergartens also hire nannies to assist teachers and caregivers. These jobs usually require some prior childcare experience or basic certification in early childhood care.
While they may not always provide free housing, they often pay steady monthly salaries between €1,700 and €2,200. For immigrants planning long-term settlement, daycare employment can be a stepping stone to more advanced childcare or teaching jobs in Germany.
Expatriate Families
Germany has a large community of expatriates, especially in Frankfurt, Berlin, and Munich. Many expat families prefer hiring nannies who can communicate in English or other foreign languages.
Immigrants fluent in English often find opportunities in these households, where salaries range between €2,200 and €2,600 per month. Expat families are also more flexible about work arrangements and are usually open to visa sponsorship, making them an excellent option for foreign workers.
In summary, whether through private households, childcare agencies, or expat families, immigrants have diverse opportunities to secure nanny jobs in Germany.
Companies and families offering these jobs not only pay competitive salaries but also provide visa sponsorship and housing, making it easier for foreign workers to settle in Germany.
Visa Types and Options for Nannies
For immigrants looking to work as nannies in Germany, securing the right visa is one of the most important steps. Germany provides different visa pathways depending on the worker’s qualifications, nationality, and the type of employer offering the job.
Fortunately, nanny jobs often qualify for visa sponsorship, as they are considered essential support roles for German households.
Work Visa (Employment Visa)
The most common option for nannies is the standard German work visa, which allows foreigners to legally live and work in Germany. To apply for this visa, the nanny must have a valid job offer and contract from a German family or childcare agency.
The employer typically provides supporting documents that prove the position cannot be easily filled by a local worker. Processing time for a work visa is usually between 6 to 12 weeks, and the visa can be extended as long as the employment continues.
Au Pair Visa
Younger immigrants, typically between 18 and 27 years old, can also apply for an Au Pair visa. While not exactly the same as a nanny role, the responsibilities are very similar, as Au Pairs live with families and provide childcare support.
The main difference is that Au Pairs usually work fewer hours and receive slightly lower pay, around €280 to €350 per month, plus free housing and meals.
However, this visa is an excellent entry pathway, as it allows young immigrants to experience Germany, improve their language skills, and later transition to a full-time nanny role.
Blue Card Alternative for Skilled Nannies
While the EU Blue Card is typically reserved for highly skilled professionals, experienced nannies with formal childcare certifications may sometimes qualify if employed by registered childcare institutions.
This option is less common but can provide long-term residency rights and higher security for those planning to stay in Germany permanently.
Family Reunification Visa
Immigrants who already have family members legally working in Germany may also qualify to join them under a family reunification visa. In this case, the immigrant can apply for nanny jobs once they arrive in Germany.
While this visa type is not tied directly to nanny employment, it provides a legal pathway for immigrants to live in Germany and later secure childcare jobs.
With visa sponsorship widely available for nanny jobs, immigrants should carefully select employers who are experienced in handling the visa process. Families and agencies offering nanny jobs in Germany usually guide applicants step by step, ensuring that their relocation is legal and secure.
Where to Find Nanny Jobs Opportunities
For immigrants searching for nanny jobs in Germany, finding legitimate opportunities is key. The process involves using reliable job platforms, recruitment agencies, and networking with families who are willing to provide visa sponsorship and free housing.
Online Job Portals
Websites such as Indeed Germany, StepStone, and Glassdoor regularly list nanny jobs across different cities. Applicants can search using filters such as “visa sponsorship,” “live-in nanny,” or “free housing” to find suitable positions. Wages posted on these portals often range from €1,800 to €2,600 per month, and many listings include details about accommodation.
Specialized Nanny and Au Pair Websites
Platforms like AuPairWorld, GreatAuPair, and International Nannies focus specifically on childcare jobs.
These websites allow applicants to create profiles, upload experience details, and directly connect with German families. Many of the families on these platforms offer visa sponsorship, particularly for full-time nanny roles.
Recruitment Agencies
Agencies such as Nanny Agency Germany, Care Com, and KinderCare Recruiting specialize in placing foreign workers in German households.
These agencies often handle contract negotiations and visa paperwork, making the process smoother for immigrants. Salaries through agencies generally average €2,000 per month, with housing included.
Social Media and Expat Groups
Facebook groups and expat communities in Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich are also excellent resources for job opportunities.
Many families post directly in these groups looking for English-speaking nannies. While it is important to verify the legitimacy of such offers, they often provide quick hiring opportunities for immigrants already in Germany.
By combining online portals, specialized agencies, and networking, immigrants can maximize their chances of securing nanny jobs with visa sponsorship and free housing in Germany.
How to Apply for Nanny Jobs as an Immigrant in Germany
Applying for nanny jobs in Germany as an immigrant requires careful preparation, proper documentation, and a professional approach. Since many families and agencies deal with a large number of applicants, presenting yourself clearly and confidently is essential.
Prepare a Strong CV and Cover Letter
Applicants should highlight any childcare experience, even informal roles such as babysitting younger siblings or volunteering at a daycare. A clear CV should include years of experience, childcare-related skills, and language abilities. Cover letters must show genuine interest in childcare and adaptability to German culture.
Gather Required Documents
Typical documents include a valid passport, educational certificates (if available), childcare training certificates, and proof of previous work experience. Applicants should also be prepared to provide police clearance to prove a clean criminal record, as this is a standard requirement when working with children.
Interview Preparation
Many interviews are conducted online before applicants travel to Germany. Families often ask about childcare routines, safety measures, and cultural adaptability.
Demonstrating patience, responsibility, and enthusiasm usually increases hiring chances. For example, being able to explain how you would handle an emergency situation with a child can impress potential employers.
Visa Application Process
Once hired, the employer provides a formal job contract, which is then used to apply for a German work visa. Applicants must submit their visa application at the nearest German consulate, along with the employment contract, proof of housing (if provided by the employer), and financial guarantees.
Visa approval typically takes a few weeks, after which the applicant can legally move to Germany and begin work.
Relocation and Settling In
Upon arrival, workers must register their residence at the local Bürgeramt (citizen’s office) and enroll in health insurance, which may be provided by the employer. For live-in nannies, families usually assist with registration and ensure smooth integration.
By following these steps carefully, immigrants can successfully secure nanny jobs in Germany, enjoy free housing, and work legally under visa sponsorship.