Au pair requirements

Au Pair Requirements by Country

Compare the core age, language, visa, childcare, insurance, and household expectations before applying for or hosting an au pair.

Requirements vary by country, but strong matches usually start with the same foundations: legal eligibility, clear duties, safe accommodation, and realistic weekly routines.

Candidate requirements

Au pairs should check eligibility before applying so families do not lose time on matches that cannot move forward.

Confirm age range, passport, visa route, and intended stay length.

Prepare childcare experience, references, language level, and availability.

Understand pocket money, time off, study expectations, and travel costs.

Country checks

Each host country can define different rules, so use official guidance before confirming a match or booking travel.

Check visa conditions and permitted working hours for the destination.

Clarify health insurance, registration, and local authority requirements.

Use written expectations before either side makes financial commitments.

Before you match

Passport and visa route

Age and stay length

Childcare references

Language expectations

Pocket money and costs

Written weekly schedule

Use requirements to shortlist better matches

Once the basics are clear, move into country-specific au pair jobs or family hiring pages so the search stays practical.

Requirements FAQ

Are au pair requirements the same in every country?

No. Age ranges, visa routes, hours, insurance, and registration steps can differ by country, so both sides should verify the current local rules before agreeing.

Should families check requirements before interviews?

Yes. Checking eligibility early prevents unsuitable matches and makes interviews more focused on duties, schedule, family fit, and expectations.