Six Months in Europe as an Au Pair: a 2026 Guide

You're interested in becoming an au pair in Europe - what an exciting adventure!

While the journey starts with a bit of courage, enthusiasm, and a whole lot of research, it ends with a satisfying cultural experience that you'll remember for the rest of your life.

There are a lot of things to consider when beginning your au pairing journey. In this guide (written by someone who was an au pair in Spain!), you'll learn insider tips, what to expect, and how to go about making your dream a reality.

From visas and insurance to family selection and more, this article will give you must-know information about being an au pair.

What is an au pair?

An au pair is someone who travels to a foreign country to act as a live-in nanny. Typically, this person is young (between the ages of 18 and 30) - we will talk more about this.

In exchange for nannying services, the host family that the au pair lives with generally provides room, board, and a small stipend.

While being an au pair is a job, it's usually considered a cultural exchange program that benefits both the family and the au pair through a contractual agreement.

Being an au pair gives you a chance to immerse yourself in a new culture and gain invaluable international experience!

Can anyone be an au pair?

Generally speaking, yes, but some countries have general requirements that au pairs need to meet, and one of those is age.

For example, in order to be an au pair in France or Spain, you need to be between the ages of 18 and 30 - in Germany, it's 18 and 27.

There may be other qualifications too, such as basic language requirements or marital status.

Additionally, some countries (and/or host families) may require au pairs to have prior childcare experience or basic first-aid training.

What the requirements are depends on the country you're planning to au pair in, the agency you're working with (if applicable), and the family that you'll be working for.

In most cases, live-in au pairs should be traveling solo (not as a couple), and have experience with children.

Do you need a visa to be an au pair in Europe?

Whether or not you need an au pair visa depends on your nationality and the country you'll be au pairing in.

• EU/EEA Citizens: If you are from an EU/EEA country, you typically do not need a visa to become an au pair in another EU country. However, always check with the entry requirements for your destination, just in case.
• Non-EU Citizens: Most non-EU applicants (including US and UK citizens) will need to apply for a specific au pair visa. Requirements vary by country.

Popular au pair destinations like France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain have dedicated visa programs for au pairs, while other countries may require you to apply for a different type of visa.

How to get an au pair visa

Applying for an au pair visa is fairly straightforward, and it all starts with knowing what you intend to do.

Before applying, you will generally need to:

• Have a host family lined up (with a contractual offer).
• Know how long you plan on staying.
• Be able to meet the specific country's au pair requirements.
• Have a valid passport.

Once you have these details, you can begin the formal application process.

The country you're visiting and how long you plan to be an au pair will dictate which visa you need to apply for.

You should be able to find this exact information by searching things like "Spain au pair visa", for example.

Always refer to official government/embassy sites when getting information about which visa applies to your situation. If there isn't a dedicated visa for au pairs, you should be able to find which visas are available for your country that fit your needs.

Au pair visa applications sometimes begin online through an official government website and/or a visa processor (an official partner of governments that facilitates the application process).

The official site or partner will give you a list of all of the requirements for your visa application, as well as guide you to the next step.

Usually, applying for an au pair visa consists of:

• Collecting all of the required documents (this typically includes things like your passport, travel insurance, travel itinerary, etc.).
• Going to an in-person appointment at a visa application center/consulate in your country of residency.
• Submitting your biometrics (fingerprints).
• Paying application fees.

Which European countries have a dedicated au pair visa?

For the Schengen zone specifically, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, and Spain have dedicated au pair visas.

Keep in mind that just because a country doesn't have a dedicated au pair visa doesn't necessarily mean you cannot be an au pair there. There may be a different type of visa that you need to apply for instead, such as a general working or temp work visa.

What do au pairs have to do?

Being an au pair can come with a variety of responsibilities, but the core is usually childcare. Depending on the family that you're working for and your contract, you may also help with additional things like:

• Preparing meals for the children.
• Helping with homework.
• Taking children to school or extracurricular activities.
• Light household chores (e.g., tidying up play areas, doing laundry for the children).
• Engaging in cultural activities and language learning with the children and family.

Au pairs typically work between 25 and 35 hours per week and receive a small allowance in addition to their room and board. It depends on your specific contract.

What you need to know

Deciding to be an au pair is such an exciting time! However, there are a few things that you should consider before taking the so-called plunge.

• Adapting to cultural differences: Living with a foreign host family means adapting to their customs, lifestyle, and house rules. Etiquette, norms, and traditions will likely be different from what you're used to.
• Carrying out your professional duties: Make sure that you understand your specific responsibilities, schedule, and any additional tasks expected of you.
• Considering your personal finances: While room and board are covered, you should have some savings for personal expenses, travel, and emergencies - just in case.
• Meeting entry requirements: Research visa requirements, employment laws, and travel insurance options before your trip.

How to find an au pair family

The most important thing when finding a family to work for is your safety and well-being. After all, you will be living with them! There are many ways to find families looking for an au pair.

• Au pair websites: There are websites that specialize in connecting host families with au pairs. Typically, you'll be able to create a profile and search through host family profiles. These services may be paid, however. Pay close attention to real reviews and testimonials.
• Agency assistance: Some agencies provide placement services, visa guidance, and support throughout your stay.
• Social media & networking: Facebook groups, forums, and word-of-mouth recommendations can also help you find reliable host families, especially if you are able to speak to the previous au pair about their experience.
• Country-specific programs: Some European countries have government-supported au pair programs that match applicants with families.

Tips for being an au pair

Au pairing is a great opportunity to expand your global knowledge, learn new skills, and experience another culture. Here are a few tips to help you along on this exciting journey!

• Make sure the expectations are clear: It will only benefit you to have an open dialogue with your host family about your schedule, duties, and personal time.
• Be open-minded: Cultural differences can feel tricky, but embracing them will enhance your experience!
• Take the language seriously: In some cases, learning the local language is even a visa requirement.
• Lean into your most organized self: Keep track of important documents, travel plans, and personal finances.
• Make time for yourself: Explore your host country, make friends, and enjoy the experience beyond childcare responsibilities!
• Have a backup plan: Know what to do if the experience isn’t a good fit, and discuss a backup plan with your host family or agency.
• Trust your instincts, especially when choosing your host family!

FAQs: Being an au pair in Europe