Au pair contract: essentials and templates for different countries 

The au pair contract is an agreement between the host family and the au pair that outlines all the essential aspects of the upcoming au pair stay, including tasks, pocket money, working hours and holidays. It provides a solid foundation for clarifying everyone's expectations and managing the au pair stay. 

What should be included in the au pair contract?

General conditions of the stay:

• Duration of the stay: specify the length of the au pair's stay
• Language: indicate the language the au pair will be speaking within the host family
• Start date: State when the au pair will begin their stay

Host family and au pair's obligations: 

• Family information: include details about the family members, especially the children (how many and how old they are)
• Living arrangements: describe the family's residence and the au pair’s room
• Pocket money: specify the amount of pocket money that the au pair will receive and when they will receive it (weekly, every two weeks, monthly)
• Free time and holidays: outline the au pair’s free time and holiday schedule
• Insurance: write down the details of the insurance coverage that will cover the au pair during the stay

Au pair duties

• Tasks: clearly list the tasks the au pair is expected to perform
• Working hours: define the au pair’s weekly working hours
• Notice period: include the required period of notice for terminating the au pair contract
• Additional agreements: add any extra arrangements or agreements between the au pair and the host family (such as who pays for the transportation ticket, language course etc)

Who prepares the au pair contract?

The host family normally drafts the au pair contract. 
However, both the au pair and the host family should discuss the contract details and agree on them beforehand. Once agreed, the host family prepares a draft for the au pair to review and approve. After one last check, both parties sign the contract, ensuring each of them has a copy for travel or visa purposes. 

Important: An au pair should never start working without a signed contract. 
If you’re an au pair and your host family suggests beginning the stay without a contract, please contact us immediately.  

When should the au pair contract be prepared?

The contract should be prepared and signed before the au pair stay begins (before the au pair leaves to travel to the host country). This allows ample time to discuss arrangements and ensure mutual agreement. If expectations do not align, it provides an opportunity to reconsider the arrangement. 

Getting to know each other and stating expectations for the au pair stay is a crucial step to preparing an effective contract.
To help you with this, we have prepared a list of some important questions to ask au pairs and questions to ask families.

Official contracts for au pair stays

Some countries, like Germany, France, and Belgium, have official au pair contracts that must be used.
In other countries, the European au pair contract template is widely accepted for bureaucratic purposes. 
For more detailed information about contract regulations in different countries, follow the links in the table below. 

Au pair contract provisions for different host countries

Au pair contracts for other countries

If you need a contract for another country not listed here, we recommend using the template for the standard European au pair contract, which can then be adjusted for your particular requirements.

Having a well-drafted au pair contract ensures clarity and sets the stage for a positive and fulfilling au pair experience, so make sure to complete this necessary step, before your au pair experience begins! 

Related information

How do I find a suitable au pair?
How to prepare for your first au pair