Answers to all the important questions of au pairs and host families regarding requirements and conditions of the au pair stay in Norway. Use these resources to research, plan and be perfectly prepared for a Norwegian au pair stay.
Au pair stay in Norway
Far to the north in Europe – with fjords and lakes and miles and miles of coastline. A special culture and all kinds of new impressions – that's definitely on the program for au pairs in Norway. Worried that you can't speak Norwegian? Not such a problem, as the Scandinavians are well known for their good English skills. Host families in Norway get all the benefits of flexible help with childcare plus cultural exchange right at home.
Interested? For your next step, check on the requirements for au pairs and host families below:
Important announcement regarding the au pair program in Norway
The Norwegian government has decided to discontinue issuing first-time au pair permits starting March 15, 2024.
- If you already have an au pair permit, you can apply for an extension until the end of the two-year au pair period to change host families.
- As EU citizens do not need an au pair permit in Norway, it is still possible to invite an au pair who is an EU citizen, in accordance with the normal EEA regulations on free movement.
For more information and official announcements, please visit the UDI website.
Requirements for au pairs
Here's what you need to be an au pair in Norway:
- You are at least 18 years old and haven't yet reached the age of 30.
- You have a good knowledge of Norwegian or English.
- You are unmarried and have no children.
- You can afford your trip to Norway and back.
- It is not likely that the political situation in your country will make it difficult for you to return there after your au pair stay.
You fulfil all the requirements? That's great! Your adventure as an au pair in Norway can begin.
You don't fulfil all the requirements? Then unfortunately you cannot become an au pair in Norway. But don't give up. There are lots of other countries to consider. Check now in which countries you can become an au pair.
Requirements for host families
Here's what you need to be a host family in Norway:
- At least one or more children under 18 live in your household.
- The au pair will have a room of his or her own in your home.
- Your au pair should help with childcare and with light housework.
- You speak Norwegian in your daily life and represent Norwegian culture.
- You do not have the same nationality as your au pair and are not related to your au pair.*
- You have completed the online course "The aim of the au pair programme" from the Norwegian government.**
* If you are not Norwegian and have the same nationality as your planned au pair, you can still host the au pair if you have lived in Norway for at least 10 years.
** The course is stipulated by the Norwegian government and is a prerequisite for all families that would like to host an au pair. Although it is allowed for just one of the parents to complete the course, it is recommended that both parents take part in this offer. The certificate for completion of the course can be requested form the Norwegian authorities. When applying for a visa, au pairs must present this certificate.
You fulfil the requirements? Then you're ready to take the next step. Have you already registered at AuPairWorld? Then you can find au pairs that fit your search criteria with your EasyFind search manager.
You don't fulfil the requirements? Then unfortunately you cannot use AuPairWorld for your au pair search.
Further information on au pairing in Norway
Ready for the next step?
We'll be happy to help you on your way.
Au pair experience in Norway:
We are continually researching and updating our host country information, but cannot guarantee that all material provided is complete and correct. If you notice gaps or inaccuracies, we would like to hear from you.