Legal

What an Au Pair contract usually includes

A written contract helps both sides start with the same expectations and avoids misunderstandings. It is important to discuss all the contract details before agreeing on a stay. An Au Pair contract should cover the following points: the stay period (start and end date), duties and childcare tasks, working hours, pocket money, free time, accommodation, meals, holidays, notice periods, language course costs, travel costs to reach the host country, transportation in the host country, and insurance. Many countries require a signed contract for visa or registration steps. Click here to download our free template. To learn more about why you should always sign an Au Pair contract, click here.

Age limitations and other possible requirements

Au Pair rules vary by country, but age limits are common and can differ depending on whether a visa is needed. Check our list here. Some destinations also require basic language skills, prior childcare experience, a clean criminal record, or a medical certificate. Host Families may have their own requirements too (e.g., driver’s license, non-smoker). Make sure you check both the legal requirements and the family’s expectations early. Click here to select your host country and learn more about its requirements. Get in touch with the relevant authorities (e.g., embassy) for up-to-date information.

Working hours and pocket money basics

Au Pairs help with childcare and light household tasks related to the children, but they are not full-time domestic workers. Most countries set limits on weekly working hours, minimum rest time, and days off. Pocket money is usually a fixed weekly or monthly amount (not a salary), and the required minimum often depends on the host country. Click here to check our list. Agree on a clear weekly schedule and what’s included (babysitting, evenings, weekends) before you confirm the match.

Visa process: what the platform does vs. doesn’t do

AuPair.com is a matching platform: we help families and Au Pairs connect, communicate, and organize the stay, but we do not help with visa issues, and we cannot act as an embassy, immigration office, or sponsor. Visa rules depend on nationality and destination, and requirements can change. If a visa is needed, the Au Pair and Host Family must follow official instructions and provide the required documents (often including a contract, insurance proof, and financial information). Use our visa tool to check whether you need a visa, and contact the relevant authorities for up-to-date information.

Insurance basics

Insurance is essential, even for short stays. Depending on the country, the Au Pair may need health insurance, accident insurance, and, in some cases, liability insurance. Some countries require specific coverage to approve a visa. Decide in advance who arranges and pays for insurance, when coverage starts, and what is included. If the Au Pair already has insurance, confirm that it is valid in the host country for the entire stay. Read more here.

Responsibilities: Host Family vs. Au Pair

Responsibility is shared, and it should be clear from the start. Host Families are usually responsible for providing accommodation, meals, a safe environment, and a schedule that follows local rules. Au Pairs are responsible for completing agreed tasks, respecting house rules, and keeping important documents valid (passport, visa, permits). For things like flights, language courses, insurance, and visa fees, responsibility depends on the country and your agreement. Discuss these points in detail and write them down in the contract to avoid last-minute surprises. Click here to learn what Host Families are responsible for and click here to read more about Au Pairs’ duties.