What doest it mean to be “Au pair”?

Being an au pair means living with a family in another country in order to:

✅ become part of the family and immerse yourself in a new culture;
✅ take care of children and help with daily tasks related to them, for example helping with homework, accompanying them to activities, playing with them, etc.

What do you receive in return?

• The family helps you learn or improve a foreign language, for example by financing language courses.
  
• Food and accommodation are included.
  
• You receive pocket money every month in your bank account.
  
• The family arranges your health, accident and civil liability insurance.

The duration of the stay varies depending on the destination chosen. In general, an au pair stay takes place during the school year and can last from a few months to one year. Each country has its own legislation and administrative framework, so it is essential to get well informed before making your choice.

Who is it for?

To take part of this activity, you must be between 18 and 29 years old at the start of your stay, be in good health, have a sufficient level of education and not be a member of the host family. These conditions are common to most European countries.

Where can you find opportunities?

The Au Pair programme is structured and paid. To travel safely and avoid unpleasant surprises, it is recommended to go through an official organisation or a recognised agency. This allows you to benefit from reliable support, clear information and a safer legal framework during your stay.

Each country has its own reference organisations. For example, in France, the Union Française des Agences Au Pair (UFAAP) brings together agencies specialised in au pair placements. In Italy, this role is carried out by the Associazione Nazionale Italiana delle Agenzie Alla Pari. Other European countries also have similar networks.

It is also important to know that the rules of the Au Pair programme vary depending on the destination. The required age, length of stay, number of childcare hours, pocket money, visa or insurance may differ from one country to another. Before leaving, take the time to carefully check the specific conditions of the country that interests you.

You will find all the information here: Au PAIR