World of Au Pair. What does it mean to be an Au pair? How does the Au pair program work?

What does it mean to be an Au pair?

Ready for an adventure? The au pair program is a cultural exchange program that enables individuals to live with a foreign family while learning about their culture and simultaneously providing childcare. It serves as an excellent opportunity for young people aged between 18 and 27 (some countries until 30 years old) to enhance their language skills, gain cultural experiences, and share their own culture with the host family.

They are neither a housekeeper nor a nanny, but they help the family with childcare and can be asked to assume some light household tasks. In return, the host family provides free board and lodging, as well as pocket money. The au pair is considered as a full member of the family during the temporary period of the au pair.

How does the au pair program work?

The activities vary from caring for the children, assisting them with their studies, playing games, and taking them to their activities (such as sports or piano classes). Au pairs travel to the host country on a J-1 visa and live with the host family for 12 to 24 months. The au pair has the opportunity to speak English every day while providing childcare for the host family, they are allowed to work up to 45 hours a week depending on the host country, and have one and a half day off to enjoy as they wish. Additionally, the au pair will have one weekend off per month in agreement with the host family. Au pairs are not entitled to the National Minimum Wage or paid holidays, the host family will provide accommodation and meals as well as to receive a weekly salary for the hours worked.