HOSTING AN AU PAIR
Welcoming a young woman or young man as an au pair is a deeply enriching experience for the whole family. More than an affordable childcare option, it is an opportunity to share cultural and linguistic differences; the foundations of open‑mindedness. Your children will build international connections and create memories that last a lifetime
Hosting an au pair is also an ideal solution for families managing busy schedules. No more rushing to make it to nursery or school on time: having an au pair means enjoying flexible, practical, and personalised support every day.
A STRUCTURED AU PAIR PROGRAM
Au pair placements are governed by several legal frameworks, including the European Agreement on Au Pair Placement.
According to this agreement, an au pair stay is defined as “the temporary reception of young foreigners within families, in exchange for certain services, with the aim of improving their linguistic and possibly professional skills, and broadening their cultural knowledge through a better understanding of the host country.”
In France, hosting an au pair requires a declaration to URSSAF and the payment of social contributions, including those needed to register the au pair with Social Security.
The agency supports you throughout all administrative steps and remains available to answer your questions.
AU PAIR TASKS
An au pair may take children to and from school, prepare meals, help with homework, supervise activities, and assist with the evening routine. They also contribute to light household tasks such as tidying or ironing, but they must not be responsible for the full cleaning of the home.
For a glimpse into daily life as an au pair, you can explore the agency’s blog and discover a “typical day” from their perspective.
HOST FAMILY OBLIGATIONS
The au pair leaves their environment to discover another country and join another family. For many, it is a unique experience and somewhat unsettling at first. It is therefore important to welcome them warmly and involve them in family life.
THE AU PAIR should not be considered an employee but a full member of the family.
They must have a comfortable private bedroom and access to all shared areas of the home. You may, of course, set rules to preserve your privacy.
Time must be allowed for them to attend language classes if they wish, learn about the host country, and practise their religion freely.
French regulations impose a maximum of 30 working hours per week (25 hours for non‑European au pairs), at least one day off per week (including at least one Sunday per month), and one week of paid leave for every six months.
A contract must be signed with the au pair, outlining the family’s expectations and the conditions of the stay.
Pocket money must also be provided.
In general, a successful placement relies on good communication between the family and the au pair. Each must clearly understand the other’s expectations.
The agency helps you define your needs and organise your au pair’s stay.
WHAT BUDGET SHOULD WE EXPECT ?
Around 700 € per month in addition to full‑board accommodation:
URSSAF contributions: approx. 220 € per month (“Trainee” and “Young Au Pair” statuses)
Pocket money: minimum €80 per week (100 € recommended – 433 € PER MONTH)
Insurance (travel, car, etc.): from around 45 € per month
POCKET MONEY
The amount is set by the family.
However, it is agreed that the au pair must receive at least €320 per month (€80 per week).
The agency recommends a minimum of €400 per month (€100 per week).
Language courses may also be paid for by the family, as well as transport costs (+ Navigo pass in the Paris region), but this is not mandatory.
HOLIDAYS
You must provide at least one week of paid leave for every six months, and allow the au pair to return home for the end‑of‑year holidays if they wish.
The agency recommends a minimum of four weeks of paid leave per year.
For weekends organised by the family, it is always considerate to invite the au pair to join, though you may keep some weekends private if you prefer.
AU PAIR OR NANNY ?
Although often confused, the two roles are very different.
An Au Pair is a young student travelling abroad to discover a new culture and learn a new language. They are not childcare professionals. They live with a host family and provide babysitting and light household help in exchange for accommodation, meals, and pocket money. Families benefit from flexibility and a rich cultural exchange.
A Nanny by contrast, is a trained childcare professional often qualified as a teacher, early‑years specialist, or similar. They supervise children and also take on an educational role, such as teaching languages or organising developmental activities. Their role is closer to that of a governess. Nannies are salaried employees and typically earn between €2,000 and €6,000 per month, in addition to full‑board accommodation.
The agency can help you find either an au pair or a nanny, depending on your needs.