Working as a caregiver for elderly people abroad remains immensely popular. Attractive pay, employment stability, and the opportunity to gain international experience are just a few of the reasons many people choose to go abroad. But how much does a caregiver actually earn abroad in 2025? Here’s the latest information from Austria, Germany, and Norway.
Current caregiver job listings on europa.jobs
How much does a caregiver earn in Austria?
In 2025, the average earnings of a caregiver in Austria range from €1,800 to €2,800 net per month, depending on experience, level of German language proficiency, and the region where the job is located.
Caregivers are employed both by private families and agencies. The type of cooperation agreement (employment contract or self‑employment) also affects the final salary. In Austria, supplementary pay is often offered for working on holidays, overtime, and loyalty bonuses, which further increase total earnings.
Importantly, employers very often provide accommodation and meals, enabling caregivers to save significantly on living costs.
Caregiver earnings in Germany – what to know
Germany has long been the most common destination for caregiving jobs. In 2025, caregiver salaries in Germany range between €1,500 and €3,000 net per month.
Several factors influence pay levels:
- professional experience
- German language proficiency (higher level = higher rates)
- the care recipient’s health status (e.g. dementia, limited mobility)
- the work location — eastern states generally offer slightly lower rates than western ones
Starting July 2025, Germany has introduced new minimum hourly rates for caregivers:
- €20.50 gross/hour for qualified caregivers
- €17.35 gross/hour for beginners
- €16.10 gross/hour for care assistants
Additionally, many job offers include free accommodation and meals, as well as holiday bonuses and supplements for nighttime or weekend work.
Working as a caregiver in Germany – extra benefits
Beyond base pay, caregiving jobs in Germany come with several additional perks:
- Accommodation & meals – usually provided at the workplace
- Legal contracts – with full health and pension insurance
- Coordinator support – especially when working through agencies
- Flexible durations – assignments lasting 4, 6, or 8 weeks, with the possibility to return
Also, many firms offer loyalty bonuses, such as rewards for regular assignments, referring new staff, and Christmas bonuses—often given in December as a salary supplement.
Senior caregiver wages in Norway – among the highest
Norway offers some of the highest pay in the caregiving sector. In 2025, a senior caregiver in Norway can expect NOK 30,000 to 37,000 net per month, which translates to approximately €2,700–3,200 net.
Norwegian institutions place strong emphasis on the quality of care, so candidates are typically required to know Norwegian (minimum level A2/B1) and have verified qualifications. In exchange, they offer high salaries, good social benefits, access to training, and legal employment with a full benefits package.
Caregiver salaries – how the market looks in 2025
Currently, the European caregiving market is growing rapidly. The population is aging and the demand for qualified staff is steadily rising. Working as a caregiver provides not only financial stability but also the satisfaction of helping others.
Average monthly net caregiver earnings by country:
- Austria: €1,800–2,800
- Germany: €1,500–3,000
- Norway: €2,700–3,200 (converted from Norwegian kroner)
It’s worth noting that in most cases, pay is issued in euros or kroner—which, with a weaker local currency like the złoty, means even greater purchasing power.
How much can you really earn as a caregiver?
Caregiver salaries abroad in 2025 are among the most competitive in Europe. Norway offers the highest earnings, though language and bureaucratic requirements may be challenging. Germany and Austria offer good pay with lower language demands and easier access to job opportunities.
With regular assignments, many caregivers manage to earn €25,000–35,000 net annually—a substantial difference compared to work in Eastern Europe.
If you would like to leverage your skills abroad, check the current job listings on europa.jobs.
