File No. 0114 — FAQ
The questions we hear most, answered plainly. If yours isn't here, our team is one message away.
An au pair is a young adult, aged 18 to 26, who travels from another country to live with and provide childcare to a host family.
We accept applicants able to meet the requirements of the programme, beginning with registration through our sign-up form.
Yes — every case is guided through paperwork and placement by our team. See our Procedures page for the full process.
This depends entirely on the agreement set out between the au pair and the host family.
Our programme facilitates placements for candidates from Africa into host families anywhere within the European Union.
The standard contract runs for one year at a time. In some countries, it may be renewed for a further year.
No. An au pair may not pursue any other employment for the duration of their placement.
Our programme facilitates placements for candidates from Africa into host families across Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Sweden. Each country sets its own age limits, working hours, pocket money, and visa rules — summarised below.
| Country | Age Limit | Working Hours | Pocket Money* | Language | Visa (Non-EU) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austria | 18–28 | Up to 18 hrs/week | €551/month | Basic German (A1) | Yes |
| Germany | 18–26 | Up to 30 hrs/week | €280/month | Basic German (A1) | Yes |
| France | 18–30 | Up to 25 hrs/week | €320–€450/month | Basic French preferred | Yes |
| Belgium | 18–25 | Up to 20 hrs/week | €450/month | Dutch, French or German preferred | Yes |
| Netherlands | 18–25 | Up to 30 hrs/week | Up to €340/month | English accepted | Yes |
| Finland | 18–30 | Up to 25 hrs/week | €280/month | No language requirement | Yes |
| Sweden | 18–30 | Up to 25 hrs/week | SEK 3,500/month | No language requirement | Yes |
| Denmark | 18–29 | 18–30 hrs/week | Government-set allowance | English accepted | Yes |
| Ireland | Usually 18–30 | Agreed with family | Varies | Good English | Depends on nationality |
| Luxembourg | 18–30 | Up to 30 hrs/week | Around €500/month | English accepted; French or German an advantage | Yes |
*Pocket money amounts and programme requirements are subject to change in accordance with each country's regulations. We'll provide the latest information during your application process.