Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for paying for the Au Pair's flights?
This is usually paid for by the au pair, but whatever you decide should be clearly outlined in your Au Pair Contract.
Who is responsible for arranging and paying for the Au Pair's VISA (if required)?
This is to be arranged and paid for by the Au Pair, but both parties should take responsibility to check the requirements.
Are there any age restrictions involved?
The Au Pair should be aged 18-30 years old. The Au Pair should not be solely in charge of any children under the age of two as Au Pair's are not qualified childcare providers.
Should the Host Family pay for language classes?
The Host Family should provide contribute towards language classes. These classes can be really helpful for the Au Pair as it helps them to integrate themselves and also is a great way for them to meet friends. It can also help with communication within the house as the au pair starts to learn more about the language and culture.
Can the Au Pair be expected to do housework?
Light housework e.g tidying children's toys and cooking occasionally is acceptable as long as this is made clear in the Au Pair Contract. The Au Pair's primary role is to be with the children and they can be asked to spend up to 20% of their time on housework.
How do we confirm the agreement?
The Au Pair should receive a written offer from the family covering pocket money, hours, holidays, description of the Au Pair's bedroom and what help would be expected etc. We would suggest having this drawn up in the Au Pair Contract.
What should we do should we wish to terminate the agreement?
The arrangement can be ended by giving two weeks notice to the Au Pair. If the Host Family wishes for the Au Pair to leave before the end of the notice period, the house family must pay for their accommodation or flight home and two weeks pocket money.
How much should the Au Pair's weekly salary be?
Hiring an Au Pair tends to be cheaper than typical childcare options, however families do need to pay at least the minimum weekly standard as per the host country’s guidelines. Families must provide a private bedroom plus three meals a day, and must pay an additional supplement per week towards the Au Pair’s language course. Details of all payment and schedules should be outlined in the Au Pair Contract.
How many hours will the Au Pair work per week?
The Au Pair must work no more than a maximum of 30 hours per week, however having an Au Pair can be great if the family requires a flexible schedule, providing this is explained to the Au Pair ahead of time. Usually the childcare will be during the day (dropping off/collecting children from school and looking after them during the afternoon), however if it suits both parties, it is also common for the Au Pair to offer babysitting one night a week which should be taken into account in the hours worked that week.
What should we do in the instance that any disagreements arise?
Communication is key for this whole experience. If either party has an issue to raise, this should be done so as soon as possible to avoid the issue escalating. This experience can be challenging at times; the family have a new person living in their personal space and the au pair is far from home, for what may be he first time in their life. It is important to keep communication flowing and to remain respectful and try to remember to listen to one another and find a solution that works for you both. Should you find that the partnership isn't working for you, Hello Au Pair will be happy to arrange a replacement free of charge within 30 days of the Au Pair arriving
Please note that the above information is advice and we highly recommend reading the detailed information offered by your country